Also known as Frangokastello, the Venetian castle of Paros is located in Parikia, the capital of the island. It was built in the 13th century, by the then Duke of Naxos, Sanudo, from marble fragments of ancient temples, and on the ruins of classical and archaic temples. On the same hill, one can also find small Christian churches, all embedded in the castle walls.
At a short distance from the port of Parikia, you will find the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, one of the oldest monuments of Byzantine architecture in Greece. Wander inside the church and admire the icons, among which is the worshipful icon of the Virgin Mary.
For hikers, the Byzantine path is the oldest path on the island connecting the villages of Lefkes and Prodromos. Starting from the old cafe of Loukis in Lefkes, follow a 3.5 km path, paved with slabs and Parian marble, the history of which goes back to Byzantine times. The route is downhill, overlooking western Naxos and Ikaria. On the way to Prodromos is the beach of Molos. 50 minutes are more than enough to cover this distance at leisurely pace. It is also an ideal route for mountain bikers.
Petaloudes is not just an area of the island but the valley of Butterflies (hence its name in Greek), a wonderful habitat with dense vegetation. The butterflies of Paros can be seen from the end of May to the end of July and entry to this natural monument is allowed only under conditions of absolute silence.
Built in 1960, the island’s Archaeological Museum is considered one of the most important museums in Greece, thanks to the findings that came to light in Paros and Antiparos. Among the most important exhibits, the statues of the winged Niki (Victory) of Paros or Gorgo (which is preserved almost intact), the statue of Artemis and the marble plaques from the Heroon of Archilochus.