Statue of Icarus

At the easternmost point of Ikaria, Cape Fanari, lies the archaeological site of Drakanos, where remains survive of the 5th‑century BC acropolis and the impressive Tower of Drakanos, the best‑preserved of the seven towers that existed on the island. About 13 meters high, the circular tower, built of well‑worked marble blocks, served as a lookout and beacon station, watching over the Aegean and protecting the fortified cape. Its strategic position, near a naturally sheltered landing that facilitated the approach of ships, suggests the site was used for both defense and for storing and transporting goods. The wall ruins and robust constructions reveal a flourishing era, and today the Drakanos archaeological site is an important monument highlighting Ikaria’s history and ancient strategic significance.