Naxos holds one of the richest concentrations of Byzantine monuments in the Aegean. Many of these remarkable churches are scattered across the island, with the most important cluster found in the fertile Drymalia Valley, in the heart of Naxos.
This region is often called the “Byzantine Mystras of the Aegean.” More than 30 significant monuments survive here, preserving sacred frescoes that span nearly a thousand years—from the 6th to the 15th century. Hidden among olive groves, vineyards, and quiet village paths, these small chapels reveal an extraordinary legacy of faith, art, and architecture.
Staying at ELaiolithos places you at the center of this historic landscape. From here, guests can explore more than twenty of these remarkable Byzantine monuments within walking distance, discovering a side of Naxos where history, spirituality, and nature remain beautifully intertwined.
Discover the Spiritual Landscape of Naxos from ELaiolithos
From the terrace of ELaiolithos, the highlands of Naxos unfold with villages, monasteries, and centuries-old churches scattered across the valleys. Exploring these Byzantine monuments offers a deeper understanding of the island’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Just a five-minute walk from ELaiolithos lies Panagia Drosiani, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in the Balkans. Dating back to the 6th century, this remarkable monument is known for its rare early Christian frescoes and its serene atmosphere, quietly preserved among olive trees and traditional stone paths.
From the doorstep of ELaiolithos, guests can also follow a gentle 40-minute hiking path through the fertile Drimalia Valley. This easy walk passes orchards, and ancient olive groves, revealing several hidden Byzantine chapels along the way. The route offers a peaceful journey through the landscape where faith, history, and everyday life have coexisted for centuries.
Staying here places you at the heart of a quieter Naxos — where sacred history, nature, and village life remain beautifully intertwined.
