The name Katapola derives from the words “Kato poli“, meaning “lower city” in Greek.
The Katapola of Amorgos with its narrow inlet has 380 inhabitants and is one of the island’s two ports. It is a natural harbor and has three distinct neighborhoods. As you descend towards the sea, you will see Katapola neighborhood to your left (where the ferries dock), Rachidi in the center, and Xylokeratidi on the right.
Katapola was initially settled by seamen and today it is a bustling port with many stores, restaurants, and hotels, operating mainly during the summer season and making the port attractive for business and tourism activities. Nature lovers can opt for the recently-renovated Municipal Campsite for their accommodation, just a few meters from the port. At Katapola you will also see yachts and other boats during the summer.
A swim in the nearby beaches is definitely recommended, as is a leisurely sunset walk along the harbor and inside the narrow village streets. The cobbled streets within Katapola are lined with orchards and verdant citrus trees. Some beautiful Cycladic island architecture awaits to be photographed!
The settlement of Katapola is embraced by Mountoulia hill capped by the ancient city of Minoa. The chapel of Agios Panteleimonas is visible on the opposite side, after Xylokeratidi.
On the way to the village exit and the road to Chora of Amorgos, at Rachidi, you will come across the neoclassical building of the primary school, facing the sea. Before the port exit, you will admire the Aegean sunset on the benches along the road. The settlement of Rachidi is adorned by church of Agios Georgios.
In Katapola port, a dirt track leading outside the village will take you to the Panagia chapel, at the foot of Mountoulia hill and next to the sea. Heading west, you will come across the the statue of Erato, permanently looking out to sea.
Xylokeratidi neighborhood extends along the coastal road opposite the port section of Katapola; this spot is where the island’s sailing boats were built and docked, and it has maintained its maritime character until today.
Here, you will find homes built literally on the seaside! A footpath leading out of the neighborhood will take you to vaulted tombs from Mycenaean era, while another footpath will take you to Evangelistria church (from the early Byzantine period). You may continue along the marked footpath to reach Agios Panteleimonas chapel and the eponymous beach, followed shortly afterward by Maltezi sandy beach.
See more info on our guide about the beaches of Katapola.
The church of Katapoliani is a renovated Christian monument and is located behind the central square of Katapola. The Venetian style of the bell tower can be seen, while it is believed that the ancient temple was dedicated to Pythian Apollo.
Ancient city of Minoa Amorgos was one of the three ancient cities on the island and is 3 km away from the port.
From here starting point, you can hike the hiking routes number 2, 3, 6 and 8. See more on our page Hiking on Amorgos.
Last updated: 11/04/2022
By car, motorcycle, Amorgos KTEL buses, or a taxi.
The bus stop is located before the entrance of the port in the car park. Please be informed about the bus timetable in our page how to get to Amorgos.
Alternatively, discover the Amorgian nature on foot hiking routes on the paths of the island.
The picturesque port's season is from June until September. with sailboats and boats.
You will find open restaurants and shops. You can enjoy your breakfast, as well as trying local, Amorgian and modern cuisine. At night your meeting point will be the alleys, with Greek live music! Good company, psimeni raki, your beer or cocktail is all that you need. Cheers!
You may visit the attractions that are worth visiting, while the crystal-clear blue beaches will be the answer on high temperature summer days!
An afternoon a walk in Xylokeratidi overlooking the picturesque bay of the port, is a must.
We suggest you dedicate an entire day and we are sure you will be rewarded.