Antikythira is a very interesting destination that is part of the Ionian Islands, in Greece. This island has not only beautiful landscapes and natural attractions but also counts with a very attractive history and unique constructions, in such a way that it is a very complete destination in which most tourists, despite of their preferences or age, would surely be able to have a good time.
The island of Antikythira was the birth place of what is known as the Antikythera mechanism. The Antikithira Mechanism is an mechanical computer-like system which would facilitate astronomical calculations. Fragments of this mechanism were discovered in this island at beginnings of the 20th century along with the Antikythira Wreck, and anthropologies affirm that its creation dates from as long ago as the 1st century BC.
The Antikythira Wreck is other of the most interesting attractions that this destination, and the entire Ionian archipelago, count on. The Antikythira Wreck, discovered at beginnings of the 20th century, is an ancient and highly interesting ship wreck. According to experts, this ship could date from the 1st century BC, and its wreck has been the source of a variety of unique discoveries, including a variety of statues, the Ephebe of Antikythira, a marble bull, a Hercules, and pieces of the Antikythira Mechanism.
According to historians, Antikythira has had several different names throughout its history. The first name known for this island is Aigilia or Agilia, after which it became known as Sigilio, and then subsequently Lioi, Cerigo, Cerigoto and Antikythira or Antikythera. Its bay, nowadays know as the Bay of Potamos, has been of great importance in the history of not only this island but also the entire archipelago since it was, during ancient times, an important commercial and economical spot.
During the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, the island of Antikythira was often used by pirates and their activities. For important periods of time, this island was used as a piracy base spot, from which pirates would plan and begin their invasions to other nearby islands. This cause the island to be attacked by others very often as well, and in all cases, the strategic bay played a very important role.