Many people from all over the country flock to the island of Tinos – the Holy island or the Virgin Mary’s island!
The majestic monastery of our Holy Mother can be seen standing on the top of the hill as the ship nears this beautiful Cycladic port.
Tinos is celebrated from the 1st till the 15th August; that is when the great celebration of our Holy Mother takes place.
Believers who have either thanks to give or something to ask of the Virgin Mary visit the monastery to light a candle, attend the grand service or just sit in silent prayer.
Some choose to head to the Church on all fours to show respect and to humble themselves before our Holy Mother.
Many miracles have been performed over the years and not only the nuns at the monastery, but also the locals have many a story to tell.
Some women dress in black during the first fortnight of August; mourning our Holy Mother.
On the 15th of August the icon which is studded with gold and diamonds; offerings from believers, is taken around the island and a huge celebration takes place.
However, Tinos is more than just an island of worship; it is an island with stunning beaches with crystal clear water, amazing Cycladic architecture, delicious cuisine, hospitable people and a great climate.
It is the island a romantic couple would visit to create memories. It is also a wonderful destination for families with children.
Tinos is in the South of the Aegean Sea and has a population of about 9.000 inhabitants over an area of 194.5 square kilometers.
The boat sets sail from Pireaus and Rafina and stops briefly at the neighboring island of Siros, which is also the capital island of the Cyclades, Tinos is the next stop and then Mykonos.