If you’ve ever stepped onto the Greek soil, you know that this Mediterranean country has countless spots that look like heaven itself. One of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world is undoubtedly Mykonos. Have you ever wondered how Mykonos became famous and what sets it apart from other islands in the Aegean Sea? Let’s take a look at the history of this beautiful place to see how it became what it is today.
How Mykonos Became Famous – From a Small Agricultural Island to the Cosmopolitan Destination
The luxury escape from everyday life you’ll get by coming to Mykonos island means experiencing a long and exciting summer season. Billionaires, Hollywood stars, athletes, and anyone with a taste for quality nightlife comes here to enjoy the hot sun, clear sea, and never-ending parties. This place has everything your soul can desire – coming here will be the adventure of a lifetime. But how did Mykonos come to enjoy such a reputation?
While its history dates back to ancient times, The Island of the Wind (as it’s commonly called) has gained popularity relatively recently, starting its tourist development in the late 20s and early 30s. Mykonos is a small Greek island in the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Naxos, and Paros. It is home to approximately 10,000 residents, but it can host up to ten times more during the season. Most of the local community resides in the small principal town on the west coast, named after the island – this is a common Greek practice. Mykonos town is also referred to as Chora, which is a Greek word for town.
Chora, Mykonos town, is located on the west coast and is a spot you must visit while on this island
The Story of Mykonos – A Short History of the Popular Greek Island
This now luxurious party island has been inhabited since ancient times – since the 11th century BC, as far as we know – still, the island wasn’t so rich and great for partying throughout history. It used to be a simple agricultural isle since Ancient Greece, later also known as the valuable merchant center in the Aegean Sea. Many ethnicities have lived here during the long history of Mykonos – Ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans.
After the Greek Revolution, the island became a part of independent Greece in 1830, and its economic growth started. Still, at the beginning of the 20th century, the development stalled – but not for long. Thanks to archeological discoveries in the nearby Delos, Mykonos became a tourist destination in the 1930s, later gaining its well-known reputation as a cosmopolitan paradise that everyone must travel to at least once in their lives.
The Development of Tourism in the 1960s
By the 60s, this part of the Cycladic islands had built its name independently from Delos. While Delos attracted archeologists, artists, and other people of culture and wealth, it soon became apparent that Delos wasn’t the only shiny star – Mykonos had plenty to offer as well.
Sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes, and the Cycladic architecture that’s characteristic of these islands in the Aegean Sea – it’s no wonder that the elite wanted to explore the place. The magical combination of local culture, hospitality, and cosmopolitan vibes made the spot irresistible to anyone who’s anybody. Plus, Athens and Santorini aren’t that far away, which means you can get the most out of your Greek travels if this is your starting point.
Views from the coasts of Greek islands are always wonderful, but Mykonos is something special
What Makes the Island’s Culture So Popular With People From All Over the World?
Mykonos and its town have always been very open-minded. Here you can see residents next to A-listers and authentic Greece mixed with the modern world. This is a place where freedom is the only rule, and hedonism is greatly appreciated. If you want a break from everyday stress, this is the perfect destination for you. During the season, there are parties everywhere and at all times – you can enjoy your days in beach bars and go for more extravagant partying at night. Mykonos nightlife is unique, and the fun doesn’t stop until the morning hours.
Celebrities From All Over the World Come Here Regularly
Many great names have visited this bohemian paradise hidden in the center of the Aegean region, such as Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly. The tradition of celebrities coming to this part of Greece remains to this day – Leonardo DiCaprio, Mariah Carey, Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan, to name a few, have all visited and enjoyed their time here.
One of the Most Welcoming Islands in Greece for the Queer Community
The tradition dates back to 1973 when Pierro’s Bar was opened. It was the first gay bar on the island – it is a queer symbol and is one of the best-known gay bars in the world. It was closed in the mid-00s but reopened in 2010. Pierro’s is one of many partying spots on the island that you won’t be able to resist – exploring and enjoying life to the fullest is practically required in this part of the Aegean.
Endless parties are a signature sign of this place
Want the Full Mykonos Experience? All You Need Is Perfect and Luxurious Accommodation
Suppose you have decided to travel to this dreamy Mediterranean destination and enjoy this luxury island and Greek culture. In that case, it’s time to find outstanding accommodation that will make your stay even more memorable. Luckily, finding the best Mykonos villas for rental is an easy task when you have The Ace VIP by your side – we can provide you with the most beautiful and comfortable private villas in Mykonos.
All you have to do is book your stay and make travel plans. You will be in awe of the beauty that can be seen on local beaches, and we have no doubt that you will party like never before. To spice things up even more, we also offer Mykonos yacht rental service – while you’re here, why not sail to Delos or simply admire the view of Mykonos from a beautiful yacht? Contact us today and book everything you need for a fantastic vacation on the best Greek island.
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