Irakleia (also known as Arakleia, Rakleia or Mediaeval Iraklitsa) is the southernmost island of the Small Eastern Cyclades. Located just south of Naxos, east of Ios and west of Amorgos, it is the largest of this chain, with an area of 18,078 square meters. The name, Irakleia, has been held since ancient times, from 3200-1100 BC, when the Cycladic culture flourished, particularly in the Cycladic II Period (2800-2200) BC, to present. Various figurines, marble bottles, clay balls and many other findings lend proof to Irakleia‘s history, adorning foreign private collections and museums in London, Munich and New York.
Life has continued on Irakleia throughout the centuries, even in periods when the island was deserted due to pirates, a similar fate held by other Aegean islands (Amorgos, Astypalea, Ios). From the end of the 18th century until 1826, most of the island had returned to the wild, consisting of only cultivated fields, such as "Docharies" and "Karpazedes", tended for needs of the shepherds of the monastery. Following 1928, a distinctive Irakleia community evolved. This occurred during the German occupation, when Irakleia showed strong resistance using the bays Tourkopigado and Vorini Spilia as shelters and bases for the Greeks and Allies.
During your stay on Irakleia, you'll want to see the Cave of St. John, richly decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and columns. It is the largest cave in the all of the Cyclades islands! On the 28th of August, the eve of the feast of St. John the Baptist, services take place here, within the cave, under the light of hundreds of candles.
The Church of the Presentation of Mary in the village of Panagia, was built beside the old church, through the contributions and personal work of residents. The foundation was poured in 1919 and the building was built from 1928-1930. The Holy Church of Agios Georgios in the village of the same name, was built around 1834. Both churches celebrate on August 15 and April 23 respectively, with great festivals and spirit. The high costs for these festivals are covered by a different person from Irakleia annually who makes a "vow" to St. George or Mary. During the festivals, a plate is passed to gather money for a holy purpose in accordance with the wishes of those who finance the festival. Be sure to attend the plentiful feast and dancing.
Irakleia