Kalymnos, Mediterranean island in Dodecanese archipelago, Greece
Kalymnos is an island in the Aegean with jagged coastal inlets, steep limestone cliffs, and mountainous terrain throughout. The landscape offers varied scenery, from densely settled coastal villages to wild hillsides inland.
The island changed hands several times through history, beginning under Byzantine rule before coming under the Knights of Rhodes in the 14th century. It later fell under Italian control in the early 1900s until it returned to Greece after World War II.
The name Kalymnos comes from a Greek word meaning beauty, and the sea remains central to how locals view their home. Sponge diving traditions still shape community life today, visible in local museums, memorials, and the stories people share.
The island is easiest to reach by ferry from nearby islands or the mainland, with regular service throughout the year. Plan to explore hilltop areas early in the day, as midday heat and sun exposure can be intense in open terrain.
The island has transformed from a traditional sponge diving hub into a climbing hotspot, with thousands of routes etched into its limestone rocks. This shift has brought new visitors without completely erasing the old heritage.
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