Koufoníssia is a small group of two islands, Páno Koufoníssi (Upper Koufoníssi) and Káto Koufoníssi (Lower Koufoníssi), that are separated by a narrow strait. They are located southeast of Naxos and west of Amorgos; Páno Koufoníssi is inhabited, with a land area of 5.5 sq. km and a population of 366 residents. Their name comes from the numerous caves the waves have shaped along their shores, which, when seen by pirates, gave them the impression that the islands (in Greek “nissia”) were hollow (in Greek “koufio”) – therefore Koufionissia and later Koufoníssia.
The deserted island of Kéros lies next to Koufoníssia and is a protected archaeological site as major finds of Cycladic art have been unearthed here [such as the figure of Big Mother (1.40 m. tall), and the famous statuettes “the Piper” and “the Harpist”, now exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
Koufonìsia islands are a beloved destination for those seeking to enjoy the original laid-back Greek lifestyle: peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, sun-drenched beaches with azure waters and…plenty of tavérnas with fresh fish!
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