Information about Katapola of Amorgos

Katapola is situated on the southeastern coast of the island of Amorgos and serves as one of the main ports of entry for visitors arriving by ferry.

Katapola is located in a natural bay protected from the winds. The name comes from the words “Lower town” and is the main port of the island and a safe anchorage for small fishing and pleasure boats.

Katapola in fact is divided into three settlements, Katapola, the small village of Rachidi with the church of Agios Georgios and Xilokeratidi with the church of the Three Hierarchs.

The landscape is particularly picturesque, the view of the three settlements, the historic churches, the beautiful beaches, the harbor with fishing boats and boats, the vast plain in the background. Katapola has been characterized as a traditional settlement, with hundreds of traditional white and blue Cycladic houses, many narrow streets, picturesque windmills and an impressive Venetian castle.

Churches of the settlement are of Panagia Katapoliani with the typical Venetian bell tower, built on the foundations of an early Christian basilica, surrounded by columns and other remains of ancient architecture and the Byzantine church of Evangelistria. To the left and right of Katapola there are scattered other notable churches such as Agios Panteleimonos with the feast of Psemini, Agios Ioannis and Agioi Anargyroi.

Transportation

Katapola is well-connected to other parts of Amorgos and neighboring islands. Ferries and high-speed boats regularly operate between Katapola and other Greek islands such as Naxos, Santorini, and Piraeus. The village also has a bus station with regular services to Chora, the island’s capital, and other towns.

Where to stay

Katapola offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You’ll find hotels, guesthouses, and apartments in and around the village, many of which provide beautiful views of the Aegean Sea. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer season.

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Things to do in Katapola

Explore the Old Town

Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of Katapola’s Old Town. Admire the traditional Cycladic architecture, with its whitewashed houses and colorful doors and windows. Don’t miss the chance to visit the picturesque Church of Katapola, dedicated to Saint John the Theologian.

Explore the ancient sites

Apart from its natural beauty and coastal charm, Katapola offers a few notable attractions. The Katapola Archaeological Site, located just outside the village, showcases the remains of an ancient city called Minoa. You can explore the ruins, including a small theater and parts of the city walls. Additionally, the Church of Katapola, dedicated to Saint John the Theologian, is worth a visit for its traditional Cycladic architecture.

Swimm at the beaches of Katapola

Katapola is home to several beaches where you can enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. The main beach in Katapola itself, known as Katapola Beach, offers a mix of sand and pebbles and is equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas. There are also other nearby beaches, such as Maltezi and Plakes, which are within walking distance or a short drive from the village. Beaches in the area of Katapola are the homonymous beach, Agioi Saranda, Agios Panteleimon, Kato Akrotiri, Lefkes, Maltezi, Plakes, Treis Hierarches, Tyrokomos and Finikies.

Shopping in Katapola

Katapola has developed into a tourist resort, with tourist and commercial shops, restaurants, municipal camping and many accommodations, attracting more families. Despite being a small village, Katapola has essential amenities for visitors. You’ll find supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies, and ATMs within the village, making it convenient for your daily needs. There are also taverns, restaurants, and cafes where you can enjoy local cuisine and relax.

Dine at Local Taverns

Indulge in the delicious Greek cuisine at the traditional taverns in Katapola. Taste fresh seafood dishes, sample local specialties like fava (a type of split pea puree), and savor the island’s famous cheese, “Amorgiano.”

Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or ouzo. Katapola is famous for its lobster pasta, Amorgiano goat in the shell, potatoes, fava beans, hot peppers, orange pies and chocolate pies. Famous local products are vinegar, pasteli in lemon leaves, xerotigana, racomelo, myzithra, nuts and honey.