Which Greek Islands are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Some Greek islands, besides offering beautiful seas and beaches, present their visitors with true cultural treasures: these are the Greek islands declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But what is UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)? It is an organization born immediately after the end of World War II with the intent of ensuring the fundamental rights established by the UN to all peoples. In particular, it supports that for the construction of lasting peace, education, science, culture, and cooperation among peoples are essential: “since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed.”
The Greek UNESCO islands listed below are undoubtedly a wonder to visit, perhaps over several trips. Go see them all; it will definitely be worth it.

Chios (North Aegean)

The Byzantine monastery of Nea Moni, a UNESCO heritage site since 1990, dates back to the 11th century. Dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, it is characterized by beautiful golden mosaics, fine marble sculptures, and frescoes. The monastery is located inland, about 15 kilometers from the capital.

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Corfu (Ionian Islands)

Kerkira, the old city of Corfu (8th century), became a UNESCO heritage site in 2007. It is located on the eastern coast opposite Albania, and its charming historic center is composed of alleys, small squares, stone steps, churches, old houses, small shops, neoclassical buildings, restaurants, cafes, and three Venetian fortresses.

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Delos (Cyclades)

A small but very important island in Greek mythology, it is honored as the birthplace of Apollo (son of Zeus). Due to the large and beautiful archaeological site on the island, Delos was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. The site features a theater, the terrace of the lions, the temple of Isis, the sacred lake, and an archaeological museum. Today, Delos is uninhabited, but in the past, it was a major commercial center that attracted many pilgrims who came to visit the sanctuary dedicated to Apollo.

Patmos (Dodecanese)

Patmos was recognized as a UNESCO heritage site in 1999 for its beautiful Chora, with the monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos, dedicated to the apostle John who wrote his gospel and, in a cave, the Apocalypse on this island. Patmos is a destination for many pilgrimages, and the beautiful 10th-century monastery remains one of the holiest places for Christians, where religious functions still take place as in the early days of Christianity.

Rhodes (Dodecanese)

The medieval city of Rhodes became a UNESCO heritage site in 1988. It is a magnificent example of military architecture built by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem (1300 - 1500), and it is very well preserved. It is surrounded by walls and is especially admired for the Armory Palace, the Knights' Hospital, the Palace of the Grand Masters, and the Street of the Knights with its Gothic buildings.

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Samos (North Aegean)

The two archaeological sites, Pythagorion and Heraion, on the island, led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The Pythagorion is an ancient fortified port with a one-kilometer-long underground aqueduct (550 BC), very ingenious and spectacular. The Heraion, on the other hand, is a beautiful and very large temple dedicated to Hera (8th century BC).