---

Modern Description: The gentler and greener island of Alimniá (also Alimiá) lies about 6km northeast of Chalki, accessible by a 40-minute journey by caïque or water-taxi. The beautiful and protected bay of Aghios Georghios where boats arrive, bears out the island's ancient name Eulimna (‘with good harbours'). The church of Aghios Georghios stands in a pebbled courtyard surrounded by mature trees: beside the southeast entrance are some ancient spolia—amongst which is a fluted, ancient altar. Inside the church, the altar itself comprises an upturned classical column-base.
The ruins of a 14th century Hospitaller castle crown the sharp peak to the north; and part of a late Neolithic settlement has been excavated close to its walls. The ascent up a loose stone scree is not easy as there is no clear path, and takes the best part of an hour; the effort is rewarded by the magnificent views and the interest of the remains. The considerable density of pot-sherds on all of the south slope suggest that there was a substantial settlement in historical times. The castle above is built on the site of a Hellenistic fort whose presence is clear from a distance, as the solidly built and perfectly drafted rectangular blocks of the 4th century BC walls which rise from the natural rock and underpin the mediaeval castle above, come into view. They are particularly impressive along the north side. A deep cistern with dressed stone blocks forming the mouth lies below the southern rock face: this may be the cistern which is specifically mentioned in the original contract of 1366 for the construction of the mediaeval castle, drawn up between a certain Borrello Assanti of Ischia (the lessee) and the Grand Master of the Hospitallers. The castle can only be entered with difficulty from the east end. Its views over the island itself and of Rhodes are unimpeded; curiously, the only point which is obscured from view by higher land to the southwest is the castle above Chorió on Chalki. It appears that this small fort (it is little more than 80sq. m in area) must have been superseded by d'Aubusson's much larger construction on Chalki a century later, even though both were kept functioning in the 15th century—in effect surveying the same area, yet out of sight from one another.
Wikidata ID: Q1227657
Trismegistos Geo: 33234

Info: McGilchrist's Greek Islands

(From McGilchrist’s Greek Islands, © Nigel McGilchrist 2010, excerpted with his gracious permission. Click for the books)

---