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Modern Description: The most dramatic and beautiful of all Naxos's prehistoric sites, however, is above the sheltered bay of Pánormos (54km). The hill to the west of the bay forms a natural acropolis: on its crown, an Early Cycladic citadel of the 3rd millennium BC has been excavated. The paved entrance (running due east/west) flanked by stone ‘benches' to either side, leading to a gateway made of larger blocks, is well-preserved and clearly visible, while inside is a tight-knit web of building foundations and alley-ways. The defensive walls here may have been added after the founding of the settlement, in the face of dangers perceived by the inhabitants at the end of the Early Bronze Age. The higher hill, a little way to the north, is crowned with what appear to be Byzantine fortifications, which are built in part over ancient walls. This was an important surveillance point in all periods: today it is a place of great beauty and tranquillity.
Wikidata ID: Q21693455
Trismegistos Geo: 60641

Info: McGilchrist's Greek Islands

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

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