Discover Apeiranthos of Naxos

The Marble Village — Aperathou

Apeiranthos (T’ Aperathou) is a mountain village on the island of Naxos, nestled among the peaks of Fanari at an altitude ranging from 550 to 650 meters. It has been called the "stone village" for its marble-paved alleys and stairways. The architecture of the stone-built houses is striking, and the elegance of the structural elements creates a residential environment unlike any other village in Naxos. It has also been called the “village of scholars.” The rugged terrain and the difficult, dangerous work of emery mining shaped a people hardened by life’s hardships—yet determined to thrive. Although most were extremely poor, many managed to study and distinguish themselves.

Apeiranthos, however, has other unique traits. It is known as the village of poetry. Song is a means of expression and communication for the community, as nearly everyone is able to spontaneously compose and sing with ease. It is also called the village of weaving, as this has long been one of the main activities of Aperathitissa women. They wove to meet the household’s needs for clothing, to decorate their homes, and to create traditional garments. Today, the village has around 600 permanent residents. According to documents brought to light by historian Ben Slot, the village took its name from a nobleman of Aperathou.