Leros is one of those islands that quietly captures your heart. Tucked away in the Dodecanese, it isn’t the most famous Greek island—and that’s exactly why it feels so special. Here are 15 facts about Leros that reveal just how unique it really is.
1. The Island of Artemis
In ancient times, Leros was dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of hunting. Legend says wild animals roamed freely here, protected by her spirit.
2. A Crossroad of Powers
Leros was ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Knights of St. John, Ottomans, and Italians before joining modern Greece in 1948. Each left a lasting mark.
3. Lakki: An Open-Air Museum
Lakki Bay is the largest natural harbor in the Mediterranean—deep, sheltered, and strategically vital. Its town is a living time capsule of Italian Rationalist architecture, with art-deco and Bauhaus-style buildings unique in Greece.
4. The Castle of Panteli
This medieval fortress, built during the Byzantine era and expanded by the Knights of St. John, towers over the island. You can reach it either by car or by climbing the steps on foot. Inside, you’ll find a small church of the Virgin Mary, beloved by pilgrims every August.
5. A Tapestry of Villages
Instead of one big central town, Leros is made up of many villages—Agia Marina, Platanos, Panteli, Alinda, Xirokampos, Lakki, and more. Each has its own unique look and feel, from neoclassical waterfronts to fishing harbors and quiet farming settlements.
6. An Underground World
Leros is crisscrossed by more than 50 tunnels and over 20 artillery batteries, built primarily during World War II. Exploring them is like stepping into history.
7. The Battle of Leros
In November 1943, the island became a battleground involving 8,300 Italian soldiers, 3,500 British troops, and 2,800 Germans. The story even inspired part of the famous war film The Guns of Navarone.
8. Windmills Above the Sea
The photogenic windmills above Agia Marina are among Leros’ most iconic landmarks and a reminder of its traditional island life.
9. Fishing Traditions Alive and Well
Colorful caïques (traditional wooden boats) are still used daily by local fishermen. Many tavernas serve whatever was caught that very morning.
10. A Youthful Island
About 25% of Leros’ residents are under 18. For an island of its size, it boasts 4 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools (one classical, one technical).
11. A Vibrant Community Life
Leros is home to over 20 active clubs and associations—cultural, sporting, environmental, and rescue organizations—many focused on children and youth.
12. Festivals in Every Corner
In summer, Leros hosts more than 20 festivals and local celebrations. Each takes place in a different village or area of the island and is dedicated to something unique—wine, fishermen, farmers, religious feasts, and more.
13. Bays for Every Taste
The island offers more than 20 bays, ranging from sandy stretches like Alinda to secluded rocky coves only the locals know. Each has its own special charm.
14. Books About Leros
More than 80 books have been published exclusively about Leros, reflecting the fascination it has inspired among historians, artists, and travelers.
15. Experience Leros First-Hand
Leros isn’t about tourist checklists. You can join workshops and tours that showcase the island’s unique traditions—cooking classes, local dancing, hiking, sailing, or even glass fusion art—experiences that connect you directly with its people and culture.
Leros is an island of contrasts: ancient yet modern, tranquil yet full of history, simple yet endlessly rich in stories. Each fact is just a doorway into something bigger—waiting for you to discover.
