Psara Town

The settlement of Psara, the island’s only inhabited one, is built at its southwestern tip, opposite the uninhabited Antipsara, at low elevation. The island is characterized by rocky, mountainous relief, and its strategic position was decisive for controlling sea routes and its long historical course. Its identification with Homeric Psyrii is confirmed by archaeological finds that attest to habitation since Prehistoric times. A significant Mycenaean settlement was uncovered at Archontiki, while on Mavri Rachi remains of houses and burials from Hellenistic and Roman times have been found. Over the centuries, Psara suffered depopulation due to piracy, but was resettled in the 18th century by families from Euboea and Thessaly. Its modern fame is linked to its contribution to the Greek Revolution and its complete destruction by the Ottoman fleet in 1824.