Lipsi is a small traditional island located within the Greek Dodecanese archipelago. This island still maintains many of its antique traditional characteristics, in such a way that, for example, its inhabitants still base most of their income in fishing and farming, the same activities than their ancestors. Despite of the fact that this destination receives a steady amount of tourists every year, this amount is low, and therefore visitors can enjoy the peacefulness and every day life of the island almost unchanged or unspoiled by external factors.
The island of Lipsi has several beautiful small beaches spread throughout its coast line. Most of these beaches count with clear blue and tranquil waters which often are one of the main reasons by which families with children chose this island for a vacation. These beaches are usually very tranquil, although some days they might become a little crowded when some summertime excursion boats from other nearby destinations arrive.
According to historians, Lipsi has been inhabited since ancient times, probably since the times of the Dorians, and there are some evidences that allow thinking that, towards the 3rd century BC, this island was very wealthy and popular. Besides this, it might also be interesting to know that Christianity arrived to this island later than it did to most of the neighbouring destinations.
Despite of the fact that Christianity arrived to Lipsi later than to other Dodecanese islands, there are several interesting antique religious constructions tourists can still meet in this destination, such as for example, a church that was built in the 8th century, the Church of Agios Ioannis, and many small churches with blue domes. Also, when willing to learn more about this island and its past, tourists should not miss the Archaeological Museum of Lipsi.
Between the 19th and beginnings of the 20th centuries, this island went through several important moments. At beginnings of the 1820s, this island became a hiding spot for people from the surroundings who where escaping the Turks. Towards 1830, Lipsi became controlled by the Turks until 1912 when it passed to the hands of the Italians. This island did not find its freedom until 1948, although still, nowadays, some parts of it belong to Patmos.