SYMI ISLAND, GREECE

Symi also transliterated Syme or Simi (Greek: Σύμη) is a Greek island and municipality. It is mountainous and includes the harbour town of Symi and its adjacent upper town Ano Symi, as well as several smaller localities, beaches, and areas of significance in history and mythology. Symi is part of the Rhodes regional unit. The shipbuilding and sponge industries were substantial on the island and, while at their peak near the end of the 19th century, the population reached 22,500. Symi's main industry is now tourism and the permanent population has declined to 2,500, although numbers swell in the summer months.


This post is part of the Watery Wednesday meme and
also the Outdoor Wednesday meme.

The majority of buildings on the island's main town date from the 19th century, although older houses also exist

During the summer months a constant influx of visitors floods Symi

As the town is built on hills around the harbour, flights of steps connect the lower town of Symi to Upper Symi above it

A delightful sign above a tourist shop, it reads "En Plo", meaning "On a sea voyage"

A May Day wreath, which is made on May 1st and then hung up to dry. It is traditionally taken down and burnt on St John's Eve, June 23rd, a tradition linked to pagan Midsummer rituals

Upper Symi

View of the harbour from Upper Symi

Sailing is very popular on all Greek islands