Nikia Village

The village of Nikia is situated on the volcanic Island of Nisyros, 14 kilometers south of the traditional village of Nisyros in the Dodecanese Region of Greece. It lies in a mountainous area approximately 400 meters above sea level within the perimeter of a semi-dormant volcano. One side of the village looks over the Aegean Sea, and the other side overlooks the fascinating volcanic crater. This beautiful, picturesque village attracts many tourists due to its grand architecture, labyrinthine of cobbled streets, and spectacular panoramic views. The narrow cobbled streets provide an authentic Greek environment where many white washed houses with single tiled roofs, colorful doors, and pebbled courtyards create an impressive contrast against the black volcanic rocks.

Nisyros Volcano Within the Village of Nikia

Nisyros Volcano is the youngest, largest and one of the only active volcanic areas within Greece. Even though it is the youngest it is said to be more than 160,000 years old. The Island of Nisyros along with the Village of Nikia is made up of impressive volcanic rock formations and fertile soil. Many of the rock formations created by volcanic eruptions have been used in the construction of important landmarks all over the Island such as the bell tower of the Church of Saint John, which can be found in close proximity to Nikia village. All over Nisyros Island many volcanic craters can be found, the most recent was formed in 1888 when a violent eruption formed a cylinder shaped crater with a diameter of 25 meters. Along with the volcanic crater that can be seen in Nikia, five others can be found within the region.

Visiting The Village of Nikia Today

The most popular area within the village of Nikia is the main pebbled square which is referred to as Hochlakia by the local people. This famous square is paved with smooth black pebbles which creates a beautiful and aesthetically pleasing mosaic. The monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos is also located within Nikia, where ancient wall paintings and rare religious images can be seen, along with the Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary,  The Monastery of Saint John and the Monastery of Panagia Kyra.

Within the village the Volcanological Museum of Nisyros can be found, it is the first and only volcanic museum within Greece. The museum which opened in 2008  is situated within a renovated, old abandoned school within Nikia. It showcases thematic units such as Volcanic genesis and structure, Volcanic process and products along with the volcanoes of Greece. This fascinating museum also exhibits rocks from all over Greece, which contributes to the promotion of the semi-active volcano on the island. It is a great place to learn about volcanoes and their structures and the museum provides detailed information to all its visitors.