More info: Paros is a Greek island in the Agean Sea, lying to the west of Naxos. The island is formed by a single mountain (724 m (2,375 ft)) sloping evenly down on all sides to a maritime plain.
The harbour is a major hub for Aegean islands ferries and catamarans, with several sailings each day for Piraeus, the port of Athens, Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and other islands such as Naxos, Los, Mykonos, and Santorini.
Paros has numerous beaches including Golden Beach (Chrissí Aktí) near Drios on the east coast, at Pounda, Logaras, Piso Livadi, Naousa Bay, Parikia and Agia Irini. The constant strong wind in the strait between Paros and Naxos makes it a popular windsurfing location.
Parikia is the capitol of the island and home to Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a landmark Byzantine church from the 4th century A.D. It is said to have been founded by the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, Saint Helen, during her pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Paros is famous for Parian marble which was the chief source of wealth for the island and was exported from the 6th century BC onwards.