Hubbry Logo
KalymnosKalymnosMain
Open search
Kalymnos
Community hub
Kalymnos
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Kalymnos
Kalymnos
Kalymnos
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Kalymnos (Greek: Κάλυμνος; Modern Greek pronunciation: [ˈkalimnos]) is a Greek island and municipality in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It belongs to the Dodecanese island chain, between the islands of Kos (south, at a distance of 12 km (7 mi)) and Leros (north, at a distance of less than 2 km (1 mi)): the latter is linked to it through a series of islets. Kalymnos lies between two and five hours away by sea from the island of Rhodes.

Key Information

In 2021 the island had a population of 17,752, making it the third most populous island of the Dodecanese, after Kos and Rhodes. It is known in Greece for the affluence of much of its population, and also stands as both the wealthiest member of the Dodecanese and one of the wealthiest Greek islands overall. The Municipality of Kalymnos, which includes the populated offshore islands of Pserimos, Telendos, Kalolimnos, and Pláti, as well as several uninhabited islets, has a combined land area of 134.544 square kilometres (51.948 sq mi)[2] and a total population of 17,752 inhabitants (2021).

Naming

[edit]

The island is known as Càlino in Italian and Kilimli or Kelemez in Turkish.[3]

Geography

[edit]
Kalymnos, Sektor Arhi
The natural rock arch in Kalymnos.
Mycenaean pottery bowl with a pattern derived from the popular cuttlefish motif, 1200-1100 BC (LH IIIc). Found on Kalymnos. British Museum

The island has a length of 21 km (13 mi), is 13 km (8 mi) across at its widest, and covers an area of 109 square kilometres (42 sq mi). Moreover, on the north side there is a peninsula which stretches in a northwest direction.

Kalymnos is mostly mountainous with complicated topography. There are three main chains going from W-NW to E-SE, and a fourth which extends NW the length of the peninsula. The coastline is very irregular, with many sheltered coves. There are some springs, one among them being thermal. The soil is mainly limestone-based, but in the valleys, there is a compact bank of volcanic tuff, the relic of an ancient volcano, located in Vigles, between the villages of Myrties and Kantouni. The island is mainly barren, except for the two fertile valleys of Vathys and Pothia, where olives, oranges and vines are grown. There is also an ostrich farm in Argos, near the airport.

Earthquakes are a frequent occurrence around Kalymnos, a fact that is connected with the volcanoes in surrounding islands. The last earthquake that occurred was the 2017 Aegean Sea earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7Mw, which injured two people in Kalymnos.

Archipelago of Kalymnos

[edit]

Kalymnos is neighboured by the small island of Telendos, which was once part of Kalymnos, but split off after a major earthquake in 554 and is now separated from Kalymnos by a channel of water (about 800 m wide).[4]

Between Kalymnos and Kos lies the islet of Pserimos which is inhabited and, with an area of 11 square kilometres (4 sq mi), is one of the largest of the lesser islands of the Dodecanese. Near Pserimos lies the islet of Platí, and about 5 km (3 mi) to the NE lies the small islet of Kalolimnos.

History

[edit]
Kalymnos town hall.
View of Rina, the small port of Vathys

In Antiquity Kalymnos depended on Kos, and followed its history. The island's Hellenistic Temple of Apollo was excavated by the British archaeologist Charles Newton in the nineteenth century; many of the finds he made, including important epigraphic inscriptions, are in the British Museum's collection.[5] In the Middle Ages it was under the influence of the Byzantine Empire, and during the 13th century it was used by the Venetian Republic as a naval base. In 1310 it came under the control of the Knights of Rhodes, and later (mainly in 1457 and 1460) was often attacked by the Ottomans, who eventually conquered it in 1522. Unlike Rhodes and Kos, during the Ottoman period, there was no Turkish immigration to Kalymnos.

According to the Ottoman General Census of 1881/82-1893, the kaza of Kalymnos had a total population of 9,716, consisting of 9,482 Greeks, 64 Muslims and 170 foreign citizens.[6]

On May 12, 1912, during the Italo-Turkish War, Kalymnos was occupied by Italian sailors of the Regia Marina. Italy took control of the island along with other islands of the Dodecanese (except Kastellorizo initially) until 1947, when the Dodecanese were finally united with mainland Greece, as part of the modern Greek state.

Religion

[edit]

The majority of Kalymnians are Orthodox Christians. The island belongs to that small part of Greece that does not depend on the Church of Greece, but rather on the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople based in Istanbul, Turkey. Kalymnos belongs to the Metropolis of Leros, Kalymnos and Astypalaia.

There are several Greek Orthodox Christian monasteries and nunneries in Kalymnos, including:[7]

  • Holy Monastery of Panaghia Eleousa (Ιερά Μονή Παναγιάς Ελεούσας), Rotso, Kalymnos. The monastery maintains two kathismas, which are the "Thaborion" and Saint Makrina (Αγία Μακρίνα).
  • St. Savvas the New Monastery of Kalymnos (Ιερά Μονή Αγίου Σάββα του Νέου εν Καλύμνω). It maintains two kathismas, Saint Nectarios and Saint Stylianos.
  • St. Panteleimon Kalymnos Orthodox Monastery (Ιερά Μονή Αγίου Παντελεήμονος Καλύμνου)
  • St. Catherine's Monastery (Ιερά Μονή Αγίας Αικατερίνης)
  • The Holy Monastery of the Ascension (Ιερά Μονή Αναλήψεως του Κυρίου Καλύμνου)
  • The Sacred Monastery of the Annunciation (or Holy Monastery Evangelistria), Argos, Kalymnos
  • The Sacred Hermitage of the Holy Trinity of Hali
  • The Asketerion of the Cross

Sponge diving

[edit]
Natural sponges of Kalymnos

Kalymnos is known and billed as the "Sponge-divers' island". Sponge diving has long been a common occupation on Kalymnos and sponges were the main source of income of Kalymnians, bringing wealth to the island and making it famous throughout the Mediterranean. The Kalymnians harvested sponges from the sea-bed as close as Pserimos or as far as North Africa. Early diving was done without equipment (free diving), using a harpoon.[8] Sponges are still fished individually, by hand.[9]

The Greek sponge trade was centered close in the Dodecanese, featuring Kalymnos until the mid-80s, when a disease hit the eastern Mediterranean destroying a great number of sponges and damaging the sponge-fishing industry as a result. Today, Kalymnos faces a lack of sponges due to the outbreak of a disease that has decimated sponge crops.

An annual celebration, Sponge Week, occurs a week after Easter to honour this "Kalymnian gold.” Much has been written, sung and filmed about the legendary courage and recklessness of the sponge divers themselves.

The local folk dance Mihanikos depicts the crippling effects of decompression sickness that is caused by sponge diving. It is typically only performed by men.[10]

Climbing

[edit]

Kalymnos is a popular rock climbing location with more than 3,000 climbing routes[11] set in the limestone rock of the island and a climate that allows climbing all year around.[12][13] The island has seen a boom in climbing related tourism since 1997, when the Italian Andrea di Bari started establishing the first routes.[13][14][15]

Economy

[edit]

Being mostly barren (only 18% of the land can be cultivated), agriculture has always played a minor role in the economy of the island, except for the valley of Vathi. The island is famous for its citrus fruits grown in this area.

Another industrial activity typical of Kalymnos was the production of painted head scarfs, which were the most original component of the female dress.

In recent times, tourism has become important for the island, particularly for rock climbing. In 2006, the island also acquired an airport, the Kalymnos Island National Airport in Argos, a village between Pothia and Brosta (the villages which are opposite of Telendos), to better link the island with the mainland.

Since the beginning of the 20th century, there has been much emigration from Kalymnos (the 1925 population was some 24,000 inhabitants as compared to 16,500 in 2012), especially to the United States and Australia. The cities of Darwin and Melbourne in Australia, and Tarpon Springs, Gary, IN, and Campbell, OH in the United States are home to large Greek communities of Kalymnian descent.[citation needed]

Kalymnian emigrants and their descendants also form a substantial portion of the bridge painting industry in the USA. Some researchers link this to the sponge diving tradition and way of life as both trades involve dangerous work with long periods away from home.

Election results

[edit]
Election Turnout ND PASOK SYRIZA KKE Other
Jun 2023 35.27 46.93 9.42 14.33 5.14 24.18[a]
May 2023 43.51 49.76 7.62 16.75 4.75 21.12[b]
2019 39.28 37.38 7.87 34.20 3.74 16.81[c]
Sep 2015 34.88 27.37 6.92 39.52 4.22 21.97[d]
Jan 2015 42.85 37.50 5.69 26.54 4.52 25.75[e]
Jun 2012 41.82 32.77 14.77 19.78 3.82 28.86[f]
May 2012 43.86 18.10 14.69 8.30 8.72 50.19[g]
2009 54.44 29.51 57.92 1.86 4.55 6.16[h]
2007 57.13 42.43 46.72 2.22 4.70 3.93[i]
2004 59.60 46.24 45.44 1.23 3.67 3.42[j]
2000 67.84 40.63 49.22 1.52[k] 3.30 5.33[l]
1996 67.94 32.74 50.31 2.58[k] 3.32 11.05[m]
1993 71.71 33.84 59.52 1.13[k] 2.53 2.98[n]
1990 74.85 42.48 51.56 4.33[k] 1.63
Nov 1989 74.46 41.37 53.16 4.73[k] 0.74
Jun 1989 74.58 39.88 50.70 5.97[k] 3.45[o]
1985 72.47 35.41 57.51 0.82[p] 5.39 0.87
1981 68.27 25.53 68.91 0.33[p] 4.16 1.07
1977 67.22 42.94 46.24 0.67[q] 2.41 7.74[r]
1974 68.15 43.66 41.36 2.30[s] 12.68[t]

Notable people

[edit]
  • St Savvas the New of Kalymnos (1862-1947), Orthodox Christian Saint and patron Saint of the island of Kalymnos
  • Skevos Zervos (1875–1966), professor and surgeon
  • Bob Costas (1952- ), American sportscaster of Kalymnian descent
  • Mike Bilirakis (1930 - ), American politician of Kalymnian descent
  • Gus Bilirakis (1963- ), American politician of Kalymnian descent
  • Maria Skyllas-Kazacos, Australian chemical engineer, emeritus professor at University of New South Wales, Inventor of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
[edit]
  • Statue of Nike (Victory)
    Statue of Nike (Victory)
  • The seafront of Pothia
    The seafront of Pothia
  • The medieval town-castle of Chorio (or Chora)
    The medieval town-castle of Chorio (or Chora)
  • Pothia
    Pothia
  • Emborios in the northernmost part of the island
    Emborios in the northernmost part of the island
  • Telendos at sunset
    Telendos at sunset
  • Masouri
    Masouri
  • Emborios
    Emborios
  • Pothia Port
    Pothia Port
  • Shopping lanes in Pothia
    Shopping lanes in Pothia
  • Pserimos beach
    Pserimos beach
  • Masouri
    Masouri
  • Pothia
    Pothia
  • Pothia
    Pothia
  • Metamorfosi Sotiros Cathedral
    Metamorfosi Sotiros Cathedral
  • Map of Kalymnos by Bordone Benedetto (1547)
    Map of Kalymnos by Bordone Benedetto (1547)
  • Panoramic view
    Panoramic view

References

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kalymnos

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Kalymnos is a mountainous Greek island and municipality in the southeastern , belonging to the island group, with an area of 109 square kilometers and a population of approximately 16,000 residents primarily concentrated in its capital, Pothia. Located at coordinates roughly 37° N, 27° E, between the islands of to the south and to the north, it features rugged terrain that has shaped its economy and culture. Historically inhabited since the period, with evidence of Dorian settlement by the BCE, Kalymnos gained prominence through its industry, which dominated its economy from ancient times until the late , employing divers who free-dove to depths exceeding 30 meters without equipment until the introduction of scuba in the mid-20th century. The decline of sponge populations due to environmental factors and overexploitation shifted reliance to tourism, particularly , leveraging the island's over 4,000 bolted routes on sheer cliffs, establishing it as a global for climbers since the early .

Etymology

Origins and Historical Names

The earliest recorded name for the island is Kalydna, attested in ancient sources prior to the . In Homeric tradition, it appears as Kalydnos, grouped with nearby as the Kalýndai Nísoi, from which 30 ships participated in the under leaders Phidippos and Antiphos. This form persisted in early , reflecting possible Carian or pre-Dorian influences on the region's nomenclature before Dorian settlement around the . By the , the name evolved to Kalymna, the direct precursor to the modern Kalymnos. Etymological theories remain speculative, with one common interpretation linking it to kalos (beautiful or good) and limēn (harbor), alluding to the island's numerous sheltered bays suitable for ancient maritime activities. Alternative derivations propose kalos combined with a form related to hydōr (), suggesting "island of good waters" due to its springs, though these lack definitive linguistic evidence and may represent folk etymologies. Greek mythology attributes the name to the Titan Kalydnos, son of Gaea and , who allegedly clung to a floating rock—precursor to the island—to escape being hurled into by his father. This narrative, recorded in later sources like , symbolizes the island's emergence from the sea but serves more as etiological myth than historical fact, with no corroborating archaeological ties to pre-Bronze Age origins. Subsequent historical names under Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule largely retained variants of Kalymnos or Calymna, adapting phonetically in Latin and Turkish contexts without substantive change.

Geography and Environment

Physical Features

Kalymnos is a rugged, mountainous island in the southeastern , part of the archipelago, with a surface area of approximately 109 km². The island measures about 21 km in length and 13 km at its widest point. Its terrain is dominated by three principal mountain ranges, featuring deep ravines, steep rocky cliffs, and limited fertile plains suitable for groves and cultivation. The landscape is primarily composed of formations, resulting in a topography with intricate geological structures that support over 50 and extensive opportunities. Notable features include the Grande Grotta, a vast cave amphitheater measuring 70 m high and 200 m wide, adorned with stalactites. The highest peak, Profitis Ilias, rises to 676 m in the central region, offering panoramic views and accessible trails. The coastline spans roughly 96 km, characterized by steep, irregular profiles that create fjord-like bays, capes, coves, and natural harbors such as Vlychadia and Arginonda. These features contribute to secluded beaches and a dramatic shoreline, shaped by tectonic and erosional processes inherent to the Aegean island geology.

Composition

The Kalymnos archipelago forms part of the group in the southeastern and is administratively unified under the Municipality of Kalymnos. The central and largest island, Kalymnos proper, spans approximately 109 square kilometers, featuring rugged terrain elongated from northwest to southeast over 21 kilometers in length and up to 13 kilometers in width. Key satellite islands include Telendos, located immediately off the western coast of Kalymnos, separated by a narrow 800-meter-wide channel formed by seismic activity in 554 AD; this covers about 9 square kilometers with a highest of 450 meters and supports a small permanent population of 66 residents as of 2021, primarily engaged in and . To the southeast lies , a smaller of roughly 15 square kilometers positioned between Kalymnos and , known for its sandy beaches and hosting around 40 year-round inhabitants who rely on seasonal and . The municipality also encompasses diminutive populated islets such as Kalolimnos and Plati, each with minimal land area and only 2 residents apiece, focused on subsistence activities. Surrounding these are various uninhabited rocky outcrops and islets, including the Glaronisia group, which collectively contribute to the archipelago's fragmented maritime landscape but remain largely undeveloped due to their arid conditions and inaccessibility. This composition underscores the region's insular isolation, with inter-island connections primarily via small ferries from Pothia harbor on the main island.

Climate and Ecology

Kalymnos exhibits a typical , with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average annual measures approximately 682 mm, concentrated primarily between October and March, while summers from June to September receive minimal rainfall, often less than 10 mm per month. The hot season spans June through October, with daily high temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C, and the cool season from December to March features lows between 11°C and 14°C. surface temperatures peak at around 25°C in , supporting seasonal and marine activities. The island's ecology is shaped by its rocky, karstic terrain and proximity to the , resulting in limited freshwater resources and drought-resistant vegetation. Terrestrial flora consists predominantly of , including species such as (kermes oak) and (strawberry tree), adapted to arid conditions; floristic surveys have documented over 700 taxa, with ongoing discoveries adding to this count through targeted studies. Fauna on land is sparse due to , featuring endemic like terrestrial isopods and , alongside reptiles such as the Balkan green lizard (Lacerta viridis) and birds including the (Upupa epops). Marine ecology thrives in the surrounding waters, characterized by diverse benthic habitats including reefs, caves, and walls that host high . Key features include sponge populations central to historical diving economies, alongside fish assemblages dominated by species like damselfish (Chromis chromis) and groupers (), with surveys indicating homogeneous diversity across diving sites. Invertebrates such as nudibranchs, sea urchins (), and contribute to dynamics, though and pressures have prompted local conservation efforts focused on sustainable practices rather than formal protected areas. The absence of large-scale marine protected zones on Kalymnos contrasts with broader Aegean initiatives, emphasizing voluntary measures to preserve sponge beds and coastal habitats.

History

Ancient and Byzantine Periods

Archaeological evidence indicates human presence on Kalymnos from the Neolithic period, with tools, vessels, and pottery unearthed alongside Early Bronze Age artifacts, including those from Vathy Cave linking the island to northeastern Aegean networks. Minoan and Mycenaean influences appear in the prehistoric collection, featuring pottery and figurines from the Late Bronze Age, such as a cuttlefish-motif bowl dated 1200-1100 BC. Ancient sources, including Strabo and Diodorus Siculus, identify the Carians as the island's earliest known inhabitants, with the name evolving from Kalydna in prehistoric times to Kalymna by the 4th century BC. During the Late Bronze Age to Early (circa 1150-800 BC), Dorian settlers established communities, evidenced by preserved toponyms like Damos. In the Classical period, Kalymnos formed a political union with in 204 BC, fostering shared economic and cultural ties. Hellenistic artifacts, including a near-complete over-life-size known as the "Lady of Kalymnos" from the , highlight advanced craftsmanship and athletic or religious . The island's ancient religious center at the Cave of the Seven Virgins, near Pothia, served as a , while the nearby Delion dedicated to Apollo Dalios underscores cultic practices. Following the in 31 BC, Kalymnos integrated into the of , transitioning from to imperial administration. Byzantine rule commenced in the 4th century AD, with the island experiencing economic prosperity through maritime trade and settlement expansion during the Early Byzantine era. Abundant Early Christian remains, including at least eight basilicas—such as the Basilica of Christ in Jerusalem featuring intricate mosaic floors—overlay earlier pagan sites, reflecting and architectural continuity. The Castle of Chora, originating in Byzantine fortifications, defended against invasions, though its current form dates to later medieval reinforcements. These structures and settlements demonstrate Kalymnos's role in the Byzantine network until the 13th century.

Ottoman and Italian Rule

Kalymnos fell under Ottoman control in 1522 following the conquest of by Sultan , marking the end of the Knights Hospitaller's influence over the islands. The island surrendered without prolonged resistance, as Ottoman forces had already secured the region, but it retained a degree of administrative autonomy due to its rugged terrain, limited agricultural output, and reliance on maritime activities like and , which generated through exports rather than heavy land-based taxation. This semi-autonomous status minimized direct Ottoman settlement or interference, allowing the Greek Orthodox population to preserve linguistic, religious, and cultural practices with relatively low interference, though periodic payments and naval levies were enforced. Over nearly four centuries of Ottoman , Kalymnos's economy centered on sea harvesting, which by the had become a of , enabling population growth from approximately 5,000 residents in 1825 to 23,200 by 1912. The island's divers, often operating in hazardous conditions across the Aegean and , supplied sponges to Ottoman markets and beyond, fostering a merchant class that invested in shipping and local despite the absence of fertile land for large-scale farming. Ottoman rule saw occasional raids and administrative oversight from , but the island avoided the heavier demographic shifts or cultural suppression experienced elsewhere in the empire, partly because its strategic value was more naval than territorial. The Ottoman period ended abruptly in May 1912 when Italian naval forces occupied Kalymnos during the , initially as a bargaining chip to pressure the into ceding but soon formalized as part of Italy's control over the . Italian administration, lasting until 1943, introduced centralized governance under the "," with policies aimed at modernization, including improvements like roads and ports to support exports, though efforts to Italianize the population through education and resettlement met resistance among the predominantly Greek inhabitants. By , Italian authorities had resettled thousands of colonists across the , but Kalymnos's isolation and economic focus on traditional industries limited demographic changes, preserving a Greek majority that maintained Orthodox institutions and local customs. Italian rule facilitated some economic stability via regulated trade, yet it imposed and measures that fueled underlying tensions, setting the stage for post-war reintegration with .

20th Century to Independence

At the dawn of the , Kalymnos maintained semi-autonomy under Ottoman , a status formalized by imperial decree in 1835, while its sponge-diving industry propelled economic growth and population expansion from about 5,000 residents in 1825 to 23,200 by 1912. This prosperity supported the development of new settlements like Pothia, which emerged as the island's main port after inhabitants relocated from fortified inland areas around 1750. Ottoman control ended in 1912 amid the , when Italian naval forces occupied Kalymnos, initiating a period of administration that integrated the island into the broader possessions. Italian rule, formalized as the in 1923, brought infrastructure improvements such as roads, aqueducts, and harbor expansions, though it also involved efforts at cultural and demographic assimilation favoring Italian settlers. World War II disrupted this era following Italy's armistice in September 1943, as German forces seized Kalymnos—utilizing it as a staging base for operations against nearby —leading to Allied aerial bombardments and occupation until 1945. The German tenure exacerbated famine conditions, driving roughly 9,000 of the island's 12,500 inhabitants to evacuate to the for survival. British military administration followed the German retreat, persisting until the island's formal liberation on March 31, 1947. The 1947 Treaty of Paris compelled Italy to cede the Dodecanese to Greece, culminating in Kalymnos's official integration into the Greek state on March 7, 1948, marking the end of foreign domination and the completion of Greece's territorial consolidation in the Aegean. This union aligned the island politically with the Greek mainland, though economic challenges from wartime devastation lingered.

Demographics and Culture

Population and Migration Patterns

The population of the Kalymnos regional unit stood at 31,383 according to the 2021 Population-Housing Census conducted by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT), reflecting a 6.6% increase from 2011 levels amid broader regional growth in the . This figure encompasses the main island and surrounding islets, with the majority residing in Pothia, the administrative capital, which reported 13,528 inhabitants in the same census. The urban settlement of Kalymnos experienced modest annual growth of 0.88% between 2011 and 2021, bucking national depopulation trends driven by and maritime employment. Historically, Kalymnos saw rapid population expansion in the , rising from approximately 5,000 residents in 1821 to 23,000 by 1912, fueled by prosperous and maritime trade that attracted settlers and supported dense settlement on the rugged terrain. Emigration accelerated from the early onward, coinciding with the decline of traditional sponge harvesting due to , synthetic alternatives, and risks; by the mid-20th century, the population had fallen to around 16,500 from a 1925 peak near 24,000. Migrants primarily sought opportunities in sponge-related trades abroad, forming significant communities in the United States (e.g., ) and , particularly Darwin, where Kalymnians contributed to postwar labor shortages in construction and fishing. Post-World War II and into the , migration patterns shifted toward broader economic drivers, including Australia's assisted migration schemes in the – that drew skilled divers and laborers, resulting in a estimated at tens of thousands globally. The 2008–2014 Greek financial crisis intensified outflows, with thousands of younger residents (average age 35, amid 50% ) departing for , , and ; pilot programs in Darwin specifically targeted Kalymnians for unfilled trades. Recent data highlight ongoing demographic pressures, including a deficit of 793 more deaths than births as of 2025, exacerbating aging and low fertility rates typical of small Greek islands. Remittances and return migration from the provide partial offsets, supporting local economies amid persistent out-migration.

Religion and Social Structure

The inhabitants of Kalymnos adhere predominantly to the , reflecting the religious landscape typical of Greek islands in the archipelago. Religious life revolves around a network of churches and monasteries that serve as focal points for worship, festivals, and community gatherings. The of the Transfiguration of the Savior (Metamorfosi tou Sotiros Christou) in Pothia functions as the island's metropolitan cathedral, hosting major liturgical events and drawing pilgrims. Prominent among Kalymnos's religious sites is the of Agios Savvas, perched on a hill overlooking Pothia and dedicated to Saint Savvas the New (1862–1948), the island's patron saint known for his asceticism and association with Saint Nektarios of . Canonized in the Orthodox tradition, Saint Savvas attracts devotees for his intercessory role, with his feast day celebrated annually on April 7 and October 25. The , situated in a north of Vathys, exemplifies the island's integration of natural landscapes with spiritual heritage, legendarily founded by a repentant who rediscovered faith upon returning home. Kalymnos's has been profoundly influenced by its sponge-diving heritage, which established a stratified comprising wealthy merchants and shipowners at the apex, experienced captains (maistres) managing diving operations, and skilled divers forming the labor base—often romanticized as folk heroes in local lore. This system persisted into the mid-20th century, with sponge markets reinforcing economic disparities where landed merchants held sway over captains who accrued seasonal wealth. networks underpin , with extended families maintaining strong bonds through patrilineal practices and cyclical baptismal naming that honors grandparents, thereby perpetuating lineage identity and across generations. Women have historically wielded significant influence within households, managing domestic and economic affairs during men's prolonged absences at sea, a role amplified by the seasonal demands of diving. Contemporary society blends these traditional kinship ties with modern influences from tourism and emigration, yet retains community-centric values evident in festivals and mutual aid systems. As of the 2021 census, Kalymnos's population of 17,752 sustains these structures amid ongoing demographic shifts.

Traditions and Heritage

Kalymnos's cultural heritage centers on its sponge diving legacy, which originated in ancient times and peaked in the 19th and early 20th centuries, employing up to 1,000 divers annually by the 1930s before a bacterial blight reduced yields. This profession conferred elevated social status, with divers earning approximately five times the wages of fishermen or mechanics, fostering a hierarchical society where captains and exporters amassed considerable wealth. The skandalopetra technique, involving a weighted stone for descent and breath-holding dives to depths of 30 meters or more, remains demonstrated in cultural events, symbolizing resilience amid high mortality rates from decompression sickness known locally as "kaisson." Folk traditions include the sponge diver's dance, performed by groups of men where one simulates underwater struggle, reflecting the perils of the trade and performed during festivals with live music. Religious panigyria, communal feasts tied to Orthodox saints' days, feature traditional foods, tsambouna bagpipe music, and dances; notable examples are the July 26 feast of Agios Panteleimonas in Panormos and the August 15 celebration of Kira Psili in Vathys, drawing pilgrims for all-night vigils and feasts. observances uniquely incorporate explosions at midnight on Sunday, a practice originating from resistance against Italian occupiers who banned , evolving into a symbolic affirmation of local defiance and faith. Additional customs encompass June 23-24 bonfires for Ai Yiannis T'Atsali, lit with dried grasses to ward off evil spirits per , alongside goat-herding practices and monastery-hosted feasts preserving Byzantine-era monastic traditions. These elements underscore a heritage blending maritime endurance, Orthodox piety, and communal rituals, maintained despite economic shifts toward .

Economy and Industries

Sponge Diving Legacy

Sponge diving emerged as Kalymnos' primary economic activity in the , driven by the island's limited —only 18% of its 49 square miles suitable for cultivation—and reliance on maritime trades. Records indicate sponge harvesting evidence from around 1800, though practices trace to texts like Homer's epics and Aristotle's writings. Divers employed traditional methods such as skandalopetra, descending to depths of 10-30 meters using a 15-20 kg stone weight tied to a , remaining underwater for 2-3 minutes to harvest sponges by hand before ascending. The adoption of standard diving suits (skafandro) after a 1866 French expedition dramatically increased dive depths to 40-60 meters but introduced severe risks from , known locally as "the bends." Between 1886 and 1910, approximately 10,000 Greek sponge divers died and 20,000 suffered permanent , with Kalymnos contributing significantly due to its large fleet. From 1950 to 1969, Kalymnos fleets averaged 40 boats with 300 divers annually, recording 167 cases of and 48 deaths in that period alone. In , annual production reached 25-40 tons, sustaining high earnings—divers could make $2,000 in six months, over twice a laborer's yearly wage—but overharvesting and disease depleted stocks. Post-World War II, the industry declined sharply due to synthetic sponge invention in the , Mediterranean sponge blight outbreaks, and reduced natural stocks from excessive . By the late , sponge shifted from economic mainstay to , with fewer than 100 active divers preserving techniques like skandalopetra through festivals and demonstrations, while the island transitioned to and . This legacy underscores resilience amid technological hazards and environmental limits, shaping Kalymnos' identity through seafaring ballads and annual sponge festivals commemorating the " sponges of death."

Fishing and Maritime Activities

Kalymnos sustains a prominent small-scale fishing sector characterized by multi-gear operations, including net fisheries and longlining, conducted from coastal vessels in the surrounding southeastern Aegean waters. The island hosts the largest small-scale fishing fleet in the eastern Mediterranean, comprising approximately 600-700 boats that target demersal and pelagic species typical of the region, such as hake, mullets, and sardines. These artisanal practices emphasize short-distance trips, with vessels under 12 meters in length dominating the fleet, reflecting adaptations to local marine resources and regulatory frameworks. The Pothia port, situated in the island's capital , functions as the central maritime hub, accommodating both fishing vessels and commercial ferries. It supports regular connections to (5 weekly crossings lasting 9-12 hours), as well as direct routes to islands like , , , , , and , alongside services to the Turkish coast. This infrastructure facilitates passenger transport, cargo handling, and island-hopping itineraries, underscoring maritime connectivity's role in sustaining economic links within the archipelago. A smaller port in Myrties provides supplementary services, primarily to nearby Telendos.

Tourism and Sport Climbing

Tourism in Kalymnos has evolved beyond its sponge diving heritage to encompass visitors drawn by the island's rugged landscapes, beaches, and maritime activities, though it maintains moderate traffic levels distinct from mass-tourism hotspots in . has emerged as the dominant draw, enabling year-round arrivals that sustain local businesses through extended seasons, particularly into autumn. This shift supports economic diversification, with climbing-related services generating employment in accommodations, guiding, and equipment provision amid the decline of traditional industries. The scene originated in 1996 when Italian climbers, led by Andrea di Bari, pioneered routes in sectors like Arhi, , and Poets, establishing 43 initial bolted lines. Development accelerated thereafter, yielding over 4,200 routes by 2025, spanning grades from 3a to 9a across diverse crags such as Masouri, Telendos, and Grande Grotta, often featuring tufas and sea views. These well-equipped, pocketed walls cater to all levels, with nearly half graded 6b or below, promoting accessibility while challenging experts. Climbing tourism has injected vitality into Kalymnos's economy, countering the Greek financial crisis by fostering a climber-centric infrastructure that includes specialized hostels and cafes without succumbing to overt commercialism. Local initiatives emphasize sustainability, balancing route expansion with environmental stewardship to preserve the island's appeal as a climbing "mecca" for international enthusiasts.

Politics and Governance

Local Administration

The Municipality of Kalymnos (Δήμος Καλυμνίων) serves as the primary local administrative entity for the island of Kalymnos, including the nearby islets of Telendos, , and others, with its seat in Pothia. Established under the Kallikratis administrative reform of 2010, it operates as a second-degree unit within Greece's decentralized system, responsible for services such as , , local infrastructure, and cultural affairs. Governance is led by a elected for a five-year term, supported by a municipal council and an executive committee. The current , Ioannis Mastrokoukou, took office after winning the municipal elections on October 15, 2023, with his coalition securing a . The municipal council consists of 25 elected members, who deliberate and vote on policy matters; its presidium is headed by President Dimitrios Maragos and Ioannis Chrysostomos Alachouzos. Administrative operations are organized through specialized directorates, including those for administrative and economic services, technical services, social welfare, and environmental management, which handle day-to-day execution of council decisions. The also maintains legal entities such as the Municipal Port Fund for harbor oversight and various committees for , finance, and tenders, ensuring compliance with national regulations while addressing island-specific needs like maritime safety and support.

Electoral Outcomes

In the October 2023 Greek municipal elections, no candidate achieved an absolute majority in the first round on in the Municipality of Kalymnos. Incumbent mayor Ioannis Galouzis, who had held the position since at least , led with 27.92% of the valid votes (2,572 votes), followed by challenger Mastrokoukos with 26.52% (2,443 votes) and Georgios Mavros with 23.39% (2,154 votes). Other candidates, including Dimitrios Diakomichalis (12.82%), Sakellarios Choullis (8.04%), and Emmanouil Giannikouris (1.30%), trailed further. was 37.48%, with 3.41% of ballots invalid or blank. A runoff election occurred on October 15 between the top two candidates. Mastrokoukos secured victory with 57.37% (4,567 votes) against Galouzis's 42.63% (3,394 votes), assuming the mayoralty for the 2024–2028 term. Greek municipal elections are officially non-partisan, though candidates often align with national political tendencies; Mastrokoukos's coalition emphasized local development and tourism infrastructure, while Galouzis focused on continuity in sponge-diving heritage preservation and fiscal management. In the June 2023 national parliamentary elections, the Municipality of Kalymnos mirrored broader trends by favoring conservative-leaning parties, with the leading party—New Democracy—receiving 46.93% of the votes (3,581 votes) amid a turnout of 35.27%. This outcome contributed to the national victory of Kyriakos Mitsotakis's government, reflecting local priorities on and maritime interests over left-wing alternatives.
ElectionDateKey ResultTurnout
Municipal First RoundOctober 8, 2023Galouzis: 27.92%; Mastrokoukos: 26.52%37.48%
Municipal RunoffOctober 15, 2023Mastrokoukos: 57.37% (elected )N/A (runoff-specific not detailed)
National ParliamentaryJune 25, 2023New Democracy: 46.93%35.27%

Governance Challenges and Controversies

The Municipality of Kalymnos has faced significant scrutiny over , particularly the operation of the illegal Gianochorafa landfill, which has persisted as a and . The site, featuring uncontrolled waste accumulation, frequent fires emitting toxic smoke, and roaming amid piles of garbage, has drawn repeated complaints from residents and visitors regarding respiratory issues and cancer risks from burning plastics and chemicals. As one of eight Greek islands still relying on such unauthorized landfills in 2024, Kalymnos contributes to national EU infringement proceedings, with facing potential fines for non-compliance with waste directives. Governance lapses intensified with revelations from Greece's Audit Court in July 2025, issuing six rulings that documented widespread mismanagement and improper expenditures in the municipality, including failures in environmental oversight and fiscal controls. A prominent case involves former mayor Dimitris Diakopoulos, summoned to court in June 2025 for negligent arson related to landfill fires; prosecutors allege his administration's omissions—such as inadequate fire prevention and response—resulted in uncontrolled blazes, toxic emissions, and broader ecological damage threatening public health. Efforts to mitigate the crisis, including waste transfers to and interventions by the Waste Management Authority, have sparked inter-island tensions, with Kos residents protesting the influx of Kalymnos' refuse as unequal burden-sharing. These issues reflect broader challenges in small Greek island municipalities post-Kallikratis reforms, where administrative overlaps and limited resources hinder effective local , exacerbating dependencies on regional and central authorities. Despite pledges for resolution by late 2025, including infrastructure upgrades, persistent delays underscore systemic enforcement weaknesses.

Recent Developments

Infrastructure Investments

In August 2024, the Greek government announced maritime investments exceeding €12 million for Kalymnos, primarily targeting enhancements to improve connectivity and tourism infrastructure. This includes the approval of a new designed to accommodate larger vessels, including cruise ships, with construction aimed at boosting the island's maritime capacity. The ferry project, budgeted at €12 million, focuses on upgrading docking facilities to handle increased passenger traffic and support economic diversification beyond traditional . In July 2025, the approved €501,000 in funding for the "Enhancing Port Infrastructure Safety in Kalymnos" initiative, submitted by the Kalymnos Municipal . The addresses safety upgrades to align with standards, including improvements to port security and operational resilience, with implementation scheduled from April 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027. These enhancements build on prior efforts, such as quay wall extensions and access road developments at Pothia port, though recent funding for road networks remains undocumented in public tenders specific to the island. No major recent investments in Kalymnos's infrastructure, such as runway expansions or terminal modernizations, have been reported, despite national plans for upgrading 22 regional airports managed by the . The island's Airport continues to operate with existing facilities renovated in prior years, relying primarily on links for connectivity. These port-focused investments reflect Greece's broader €585 million national port modernization announced in September 2025, prioritizing island economies like Kalymnos for enhanced maritime access.

Cultural and Tourism Initiatives

In recent years, the of Kalymnos has prioritized initiatives blending cultural preservation with promotion to extend the island's appeal beyond seasonal visitors. The relaunch of the Kalymnos International Climbing Festival in October 2025, organized by the municipality, featured guided climbs, competitions, workshops, film screenings, and discussions on local heritage, drawing international participants and positioning the island as a hub for integrated with Aegean culture. This event, absent for six years prior, emphasized by combining climbing with cultural elements like performances and heritage talks. Complementing this, the Cultural Summer 2025 program, announced by Mayor Ioannis and of Valantoula Kanavouri on July 15, 2025, included a series of concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical events to foster local creativity and attract tourists year-round. The annual Festival of the , held in August 2025, engaged expatriates and locals through communal celebrations, reinforcing cultural ties while promoting the island's traditions to visitors. Additionally, a , 2025, event focused on digital promotion of , incorporating demonstrations and expert presentations to enhance online tourism marketing. Tourism infrastructure initiatives include a €205,890 project under the South Aegean 2021–2027 program, funded for mobile climbing equipment to bolster tourism, alongside plans for a diving park to highlight maritime heritage and sponge-diving traditions. In July 2025, the Municipal Council approved a proposal by CHALIKOS S.A. to project cultural motifs onto mountainsides, aiming to visually integrate heritage into the tourist experience. These efforts, supported by regional announcements in September 2025, seek to diversify from traditional summer while preserving authentic elements like practices.

Environmental and Repatriation Efforts

In recent years, the of Kalymnos has implemented targeted environmental measures to address challenges, including the installation of dedicated bins across the island in July 2025, aimed at reducing and protecting local ecosystems and heritage sites. These initiatives complement broader practices promoted by operators, such as eco-conscious diving schools that prioritize preservation through certified sustainable operations. Marine conservation efforts have gained momentum with the Oceanides 's ongoing since , which establishes ecological baselines for Kalymnos's surrounding aquatic areas to inform future protection strategies amid pressures from and historical sponge harvesting. In September 2025, the island hosted a "Green Forum" co-organized by local institutions, focusing on regional discussions to enhance green practices and mitigate impacts from human activities. , a key economic driver, has prompted calls for improved island-wide environmental standards, given climbers' relatively low direct footprint but the need to preserve geological and natural assets for sustainable . Repatriation efforts in Kalymnos emphasize recovery and engagement. In November 2024, local authorities and leaders demanded of a rare ancient bronze statue known as the "Mounted " from a foreign collection, highlighting ongoing for repatriating artifacts linked to the island's historical significance. This aligns with Greece's broader successes in artifact , including multiple returns from the in 2025, though Kalymnos-specific claims underscore localized heritage preservation priorities. To foster ties with the island's substantial —stemming from mid-20th-century that reduced the resident by an estimated 8,000 or more—annual events like the "Festival of the Diaspora" in August 2025 drew participation to honor Kalymnian heritage and encourage cultural reconnection, potentially supporting reverse migration amid depopulation concerns. Such gatherings, organized by the , aim to maintain transnational links without formal incentives documented for the island.

Notable Individuals

Skevos Zervos (1875–1966) was a Kalymnian physician, university professor, and politician who played a key role in advocating for the islands' liberation from Italian occupation during , contributing to their eventual union with in 1947. Michael Kokkinos (1900–1990), a sculptor born to a sponge merchant family in Kalymnos, studied in before returning to create public monuments on the island, including the Statue of Nike (Victory) overlooking Pothia harbor, which symbolizes local heritage and resilience.

References

  1. https://www.mdpi.com/2571-9408/4/4/175
  2. https://www.mysteriousgreece.com/travel-guides/islands/dodecanese/kalymnos/
  3. https://latitude.to/articles-by-country/gr/greece/15565/kalymnos
  4. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/history/
  5. https://www.scubakalymnos.com/tradition/
  6. https://nicenews.com/sports/kalymnos-greek-island-mecca-rock-climbing/
  7. https://topostext.org/place/370270IKal
  8. http://www.kalymnos-guide.gr/content/history-and-mythology
  9. https://www.kalymnos-isl.gr/documents/history-of-kalymnos.pdf
  10. https://golden-greece.gr/en/islands/dodekanisa/kalymnos/history
  11. https://theworldofinfo.com/kalymnos/geography/
  12. https://see-greece.com/greek-islands/dodecanese/kalymnos/
  13. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377956054_Exploring_the_wondrous_world_of_a_limestone_island_a_geoeducational_program_for_the_promotion_of_the_geological_heritage_of_Kalymnos_island
  14. https://www.summitpost.org/profitis-ilias/1041356
  15. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/geography/
  16. https://kalymnosrent.com/kalymnos-island/
  17. https://www.fototravel.info/en/greece/dodecanese/telendos
  18. https://greekcitytimes.com/2024/05/17/pserimos-a-small-untouched-island/
  19. http://www.greece-island.info/pserimos
  20. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/sightseeing/pserimos-island/
  21. https://en.climate-data.org/europe/greece/kalymnos/kalymnos-717906/
  22. https://www.holiday-weather.com/kalymnos/averages/
  23. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233629084_Additions_to_the_flora_of_the_island_of_Kalimnos_SE_Aegean_Greece
  24. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/230669189_Biodiversity_patterns_of_terrestrial_isopods_from_two_island_groups_in_the_Aegean_Sea_Greece_Species-area_relationship_small_island_effect_and_nestedness
  25. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00222933.2025.2502122
  26. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352485516303243
  27. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0294770
  28. https://www.kalymnosdiving.gr/tags/underwater-fauna-and-flora-kalymnos-island
  29. https://oceanides.org/project/kalymnos_conservation/
  30. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Environmentally-protected-areas-in-Kalymnos-Kos-and-Rhodes_tbl4_269030739
  31. https://www.academia.edu/3835295/Late_EBA_Finds_from_Vathy_Cave_Kalymnos_and_their_Links_with_the_NE_Aegean
  32. http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/1/eh151.jsp?obj_id=3441
  33. https://www.petersommer.com/blog/greece-travel/kalymnos-big-surprises-small-island
  34. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1438524067028265/posts/1730229964524339/
  35. https://www.aegeanislands.gr/pois/kalymnos-archaeological-sites-en/
  36. https://golden-greece.gr/en/archaeological/dodekanisa/kalymnos
  37. https://www.stayinkalymnos.gr/history
  38. https://www.greekislandsbooking.com/en/islands/kalymnos-island/history-kalymnos/
  39. https://www.in2greece.com/english/places/summer/islands/kalymnos-history.html
  40. https://www.kalymnos-isl.gr/en/about-kalymnos/history
  41. https://greekreporter.com/2025/03/07/dodecanese-union-greece-anniversary/
  42. https://greekcitytimes.com/2022/07/27/south-aegean-population-increase/
  43. https://hrussellbernard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Bernard-HR.-1968.Ph_.D-thesis.-KALYMNOS-ECONOMIC-AND-CCULTURA-CHANGE-ON-A-GREEK-SPONGE-FISHING-ISLAND.pdf
  44. https://greekreporter.com/2014/11/12/darwin-attracts-workers-from-greek-island-of-kalymnos/
  45. https://researchers.cdu.edu.au/en/publications/perspectives-on-the-hellenic-diaspora
  46. https://www.ekathimerini.com/society/164558/thousands-leave-kalymnos-to-start-new-lives-on-foreign-shores/
  47. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/kalymnos-sounds-the-alarm-over-demographic-decline
  48. https://neoskosmos.com/en/2025/09/29/news/diaspora/greek-diaspora-from-the-us-and-australia-rally-to-support-greeces-remote-islands/
  49. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/sightseeing/savior-christ-church/
  50. https://www.allovergreece.com/Religion-Destination/Descr/5/165/en
  51. https://www.hellenic-travelgroup.com/sight/churches-monasteries/vathis/panagia-kyra-psili
  52. https://hrussellbernard.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/bernard-1976.sponge-markets-of-kalymnos-in-1964-65.pdf
  53. https://www.jstor.org/stable/646757
  54. https://epubs.ac.za/index.php/mm/article/download/2180/1565
  55. https://www.aegeanislands.gr/pois/kalymnos-sponge-diving-in-kalymnos-en/
  56. https://www.thehungrytravellers.blog/kalymnos-diving-for-sponge-and-the-joy-of-meze/
  57. https://alchemy.gr/post/692/skandalopetra-the-ancient-art-of-kalymnian-sponge-diving
  58. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/history/sponge-diving-tradition/
  59. https://www.aegeanislands.gr/pois/kalymnos-festivals-and-customs-en/
  60. https://daily.jstor.org/an-explosive-easter-celebration/
  61. https://www.aegeancuisine.org/Paniguria_Stin_Kalumno
  62. https://barrysramblings.com/2013/05/11/kalymnos-mountains-and-traditions/
  63. https://cas-sca.journals.uvic.ca/index.php/anthropologica/article/download/1491/1259/2406
  64. https://www.noorimages.com/sponge-divers
  65. https://dan.org/alert-diver/article/the-story-of-sponge-divers/
  66. https://amu.hal.science/hal-03040756/document
  67. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/article/how-sport-climbing-is-helping-to-revitalize-a-greek-island
  68. https://www.cambridgegreekcorner.com/2016/08/the-greek-sponge-divers.html?m=1
  69. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327103383_Small-scale_fishery_of_the_Eastern_Mediterranean_Sea_A_case_study_in_the_Kalymnos_Island_Greece
  70. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096456912030185X
  71. https://www.greece-is.com/climbers-divers-paradise-guide-kalymnos/
  72. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/11/7/1509
  73. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/note/join/2008/408927/IPOL-PECH_NT%282008%29408927_EN.pdf
  74. https://www.ferryhopper.com/en/destinations/greece/kalymnos
  75. https://greekreporter.com/2025/05/19/kalymnos-greece-year-round-tourism/
  76. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/337060015_The_contribution_of_alternative_forms_of_tourism_in_sustainable_tourism_development_The_case_of_the_island_of_Kalymnos
  77. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5c761d87840b168311befb82/t/5f63e62e5c67677bfff82f65/1600382529301/Climbing_Initiative_Kalymnos_Case_Study.pdf
  78. https://climbkalymnos.com/climbing/
  79. https://www.thecrag.com/en/climbing/greece/kalymnos
  80. https://www.zagurami.eu/kalymnos-an-island-where-sponges-have-been-replaced-by-chalk/
  81. https://adventure.com/kalymnos-greece-rock-climbing-town/
  82. https://www.ypes.gr/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/STRUCTURE-OPERATION-LRD-ENGLISH-VERSION-2024.pdf
  83. https://rm.coe.int/inter-municipal-cooperation-imc-in-greece-final-report/168086d616
  84. https://www.dimokratiki.gr/15-10-2023/neos-dimarchos-kalymnou-o-ioannis-mastrokoukos/
  85. https://kalymnos.gov.gr/el/municipality/17-mayor-vicemayors/18-dimarxos
  86. http://dda.gr/pfiles/a7a8e13e60f813b7c1a26ecd80c2092c9fe14dd7.pdf
  87. https://www.kalymnos.gov.gr/el/municipality/dimotiko-symboulio
  88. https://www.kalymnos.gov.gr/el/municipality/diarthrosi-ypiresion
  89. https://ekloges-prev.singularlogic.eu/2023/october/d/home/en/districts/1210/
  90. https://www.newsit.gr/topikes-eidhseis/apotelesmata-eklogon-2023-kalymnos-neos-dimarxos-me-57-o-ioannis-mastrokoukos/3884462/
  91. https://www.ertnews.gr/perifereiakoi-stathmoi/notio_aigaio/aytodioikitikes-ekloges-2023-neos-dimarxos-kalymnion-o-mastrokoukos-me-57-37/
  92. https://ekloges-prev.singularlogic.eu/2023/june/v/home/en/municipalities/9276/
  93. https://en.protothema.gr/2025/01/14/kalymnos-landfill-health-hazard-regional-governor-assures-solution-by-2025/
  94. https://www.vice.com/en/article/theres-an-illegal-trash-volcano-burning-in-greece/
  95. https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-trash-volcano-of-kalymnos
  96. https://www.ekathimerini.com/news/environment/1241950/islands-buckling-under-increased-waste-burden/
  97. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/audit-court-widespread-mismanagement-in-the-municipality
  98. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/former-kalymnos-mayor-to-appear-in-court-for-negligen
  99. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-001529_EN.html
  100. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/is-all-waste-equal?blogcategory=English
  101. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13608746.2025.2455769?src=
  102. https://kalymnostimes.com/%25CE%25B5%25CF%2585%25CF%2581%25CF%2589%25CF%2580%25CE%25B1%25CF%258A%25CE%25BA%25CE%25AE-%25CE%25B5%25CE%25BD%25CF%2589%25CF%2583%25CE%25B7/f/s-aegean-waste-management-authority-%25CF%2586%25CE%25BF%25CE%25B4%25CF%2583%25CE%25B1-active-on-kalymnos
  103. https://greekreporter.com/2024/08/21/maritime-investments-kalymnos-island-greece/
  104. https://news.gtp.gr/2024/08/30/new-passenger-ship-dock-approved-for-kalymnos-paving-the-way-for-cruise-ships/
  105. https://www.tornosnews.gr/en/tourism-businesses/new-investments/50370-kalymnos-island-to-get-new-ferry-dock-merchant-marine-engineering-school.html
  106. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/kalymnos-port-gets-eu-funding-boost-for-safety-upgrade
  107. https://www.cnway.gr/project/port-of-kalymnos/
  108. https://www.cnway.gr/project/access-road-to-kalymnos-main-port/
  109. https://www.thenationalherald.com/greece-plans-upgrade-renovations-of-22-regional-airports-athens-too/
  110. https://www.greekairports.gr/jkl
  111. https://safety4sea.com/greece-to-invest-e585-million-in-modernization-of-port-infrastructure/
  112. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/kalymnos-international-climbing-festival-of-this-year-returns-to-greece-featuring-its-world-class-climbing-local-culture-and-aegean-sports-tourism/
  113. https://www.planetmountain.com/en/news/events/kalymnos-climbing-festival-returns-16-19-october-2025.html
  114. https://www.athens24.com/news/kalymnos-climbs-again-the-relaunch-of-the-international-climbing-festival-and-a-bold-bet-on-tourism.html
  115. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/municipal-presentation-cultural-summer-2025
  116. https://www.thenationalherald.com/festival-of-the-diaspora-2025-kalymnos/
  117. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/digital-promotion-of-kalymnos%25E2%2580%2599-cultural-heritage-event
  118. https://www.facebook.com/groups/kalymnosclimbing/posts/25478531311753406/
  119. https://www.tornosnews.gr/en/greek-news/culture/52633-when-the-mountain-becomes-a-screen-a-hotel-highlights-the-cultural-identity-of-kalymnos.html
  120. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/south-aegean-region-announced-projects-for-kalymnos
  121. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/small-steps-big-impact-kalymnos-installs-battery-recycling-bins?blogcategory=English
  122. https://pros-blog.padi.com/how-volcano-bubbles-diving-school-became-greeces-first-padi-eco-center/
  123. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/participation-of-kalymnos-regional-unit-in-the-green-forum?blogcategory=English
  124. https://greekcitytimes.com/2024/11/20/kalymnos-demands-return-of-ancient-bronze-statue/
  125. https://www.ekathimerini.com/culture/1262703/more-ancient-artifacts-returned-to-greece-from-us/
  126. https://kalymnostimes.com/english-page/f/event-honoring-the-kalymnian-diaspora
  127. https://www.greeka.com/dodecanese/kalymnos/architecture/michael-kokkinos/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.