Origins of the Names of the Greek Islands

Each of these islands touches a different emotion: some slow down time on their stone streets, some hold their breath in a turquoise bay, and some whisper a legend. Below, we'll delve into the origins of each name, briefly but comprehensively.

Its name has been known as "Kos" since ancient times. Some researchers argue that the name derives from a local hero, while others argue that it is related to the word "kosmos" (order, integrity). During the Ottoman period, it was called "İstanköy," which led to the Turkish pronunciation of the island.

Located opposite Bodrum, it's an island where you'll quickly connect with its whitewashed houses, palm-lined streets, harbor, and the legend of Hippocrates. The city's iconic Hippocrates Tree, the Knights' Castle, and the Ancient Agora are all located along a walking route, while Lambi and Paradise Beach to the south make for a seaside holiday. Easy access by ferry from Bodrum and the island's balance of history and sea make it the perfect short getaway.

The Greek word "rhódon" means "rose," so it is often called the "Island of Roses." Another legend has it that the sea nymph Rhode, beloved of the sea god Helios, bestowed her beauty upon the island, and it was named after her.

The largest of the Dodecanese islands, its medieval walled Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master are like a living scene from the Middle Ages. Lindos's acropolis, the mouth of the Mandraki harbor, and the legendary Colossus of Rhodes provide a dramatic backdrop. It's a rare destination that's equally generous for history buffs and beach-goers.

According to mythological narrative, the island bears the name of Symi, a water nymph renowned for her beauty. Legend has it that Symi fell in love with a hero who came to the island's shore, and this love became the subject of legends.

The pastel-colored neoclassical houses rising like a harbor amphitheater maintain a quiet yet elegant rhythm. A boat tour of the Panormitis Monastery, an evening stroll along the steps of Kali Strata, and a swim in crystal-clear bays will entice you with a "subtle slowness of taste." The possibility of a day trip from Rhodes is a welcome bonus.

"Megisti" means "largest" in Greek; it was given this name because it is the largest of the surrounding tiny islets. "Kastellorizo" means "red castle" in Italian; it is so named because of the reddish stones of the castle walls that dominate the harbor.

Just 2.1 kilometers away, just opposite Kaş, it promises tranquility with its "colorful facades + tranquil harbor" formula. The low entrance to the Blue Cave, accessed from the sea, instantly reveals the glow within; this is the small island's big moment. Its tiny bazaar and quiet streets are perfect for a long lunch by the sea.

It takes its name from the Phoenician word meaning "gum." The island's world-famous mastic production has cemented this name throughout history.

Homeland of mastic, the facade ornamentation and medieval layout of the mastic villages of the south (Pyrgi, Mesta) are signatures of the island spirit. Nea Moni Monastery, stone courtyards, and paths woven with olives and citrus fruits: an experience that slowly seeps like mastic resin. Easy access by ferry from Çeşme makes it an island of quick decisions.

According to some sources, it derives from the Titan Kalidnos. Another theory is based on the word "kalamos," meaning "reed," which stems from the island's ancient reed-covered nature.

Home to world-renowned rock climbers with its limestone walls, it's known for its sponge-diving culture on the seaside. The colorful houses of Pothia, a short boat hop to Telendos, and sunsets over the Massouri skyline: the island's raw beauty reaches the heart. It's easy to add to your itinerary with a short ferry ride from Kos.

The name Lesvos comes from the hero Lesbos, who is said to have reigned on the island. The Turkish word "Midilli" (Midilli) became widespread during the Ottoman period and gradually became established among the people.

Greece's third-largest island, nestled among olive groves and villages, both literature and cuisine dominate. Molivos (Mithymna) is romantic with its stone houses, while Mytilene is lively; ouzo tables and delicacies cooked in stone ovens complete the "green side of the Aegean." A 1-1.5-hour ferry ride from Ayvalık allows for spontaneous plans.

It is thought to come from the Phoenician sailors' word "Sama" (high place); the island fits this name with its mountainous and high appearance in the Aegean.

Hometown of Pythagoras, the Eupalinion Tunnel and Heraion are windows into the ancient world. Pythagoreion's stone streets and the sparkling bays of its southern coastline perfectly illustrate the mathematical formula for a holiday. Regular ferries from Kuşadası and Seferihisar take you 30-60 minutes and provide a convenient way to get there.

Its etymology is uncertain; some argue that it derives from an ancient word meaning "stone." It is famous in Christian history as the place where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation.

With its Cave of Revelation and Monastery of St. John, it truly evokes the feeling of a "holy island." The white mass of Chora, with its cobblestone streets, stands out as an icon. Beaches like Grikos and Psili Ammos are serene, perfect for those who appreciate the trinity of wind, sun, and silence. It's one of those islands that "speaks volumes without saying a word."

Although the origin of this name, known since ancient times, is not certain, some views attribute it to a local legendary hero, while others attribute it to the geographical features of the island.

Tranquil coves, a Byzantine castle, and the Italian-era modernist architecture of Lakki give the island an unexpected character. The scars of World War II in the Merikia tunnels, the shade of plane trees on the beaches, the daily rhythm of the Agia Marina–Platanos axis… Perfect for a simple, authentic, untouched taste.

In the 13th century, it was named "Santa Irini" after St. Irene, and over time it became Santorini. Its ancient name was "Thera."

According to legend, it takes its name from the fact that Apollo's grandson, Mykonus, ruled the island with divine power. The giant rocks surrounding the island were believed to represent the bones of giants in mythology.

Its name probably comes from the Pelasgian language of the pre-Greek people. Some legends also claim that it derives from the mythological creatures known as the "Curetes," who protected the island.

According to mythology, Poseidon, god of the sea, abducted a water nymph named Korkyra and brought her to this island. In her memory, the island was named Kerkyra, later evolving into "Corfu" under Latin and Italian influences.

It bears the name of its legendary founder, Naxos. It is also known in mythology as the place where Dionysus fell in love with Ariadne.

It was named after the hero Paros, who is said to have founded it. It was a renowned center in the ancient world for its marble.

In mythology, it derives its name from Zakynthos, the son of Dardanus. Also mentioned in Homer's epics, this island was an important stop on ancient maritime routes.

"Kephalē" means "head" in Greek. Legend has it that the island was named after its large promontory, which resembles a head.

It is thought to come from the words “skia” (shadow) and “anthos” (flower), referring to the island’s landscape filled with colorful flowers shaded by pine forests.

Derived from the Greek word "hydor" (water), it was given this name because of the abundance of freshwater resources on the island in the past, and it also evokes the mythological multi-headed monster Hydra.