CHALKI TRAVEL GUIDE

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AREAS

Chorio

Chorio, the old settlement of Halki (up till early 19th C), now mainly ruined, is situated on the slopes below the hill top of Kastro, a position concealed from view from the sea, and high above the marauding pirates. It is about 35 minutes walk up the concrete road, which winds up the valley. It is on August 14th that the population ascends to Chorio for the Festival of the Virgin Mary, the beautiful church is opened, and the church hall compound is full with feasting and dancing.

Kastro

The remnants of this castle of the Knights of St John (i.e. Medieval, not from the Crusades) are on the top of the smaller peak behind Emborio. The panoramic views are spectacular. Once at Chorio it takes a further 10-15 minutes to ascend to the Kastro. Access and safety underfoot have been greatly improved by the archaeological team whose work began in 2000.