Saria

One of the most heavenly, virgin places to visit in Karpathos is Saria, a small islet in the north of the island that reports a resident population of 45 people, including scientists who are researching the Mediterranean monk seal. In the past the islet was a part of Karpathos, but the two islands were separated due to erosion.

There are still ancient monuments, ruins and remains of ancient settlements on Saria, where the ancient town of Nisyros, one of the four cities of Karpathos, was built. It is also believed that it was a hide-out for Saracen pirates.

According to mythology, the island was created during Titanomachy, when Poseidon cut off a part of Karpathos and buried his foe, the Titan Efialtis, underneath.

Saria is a natural habitat and a breeding ground for many birds and marine species. It has been declared as an Important Area of the Natura 2000 European Network, thanks to the variety of its habitats and the rare species of plants and animals it hosts.