On Naxos, the cultural venues that are available and known for hosting cultural events are breathtaking, historic and certainly unique. They range from ancient archaeological sites, to a Venetian tower, medieval castle, sandy beaches, a former convent, modern open-air amphitheater and traditional public school and administrative building auditoriums.
The arts & culture scene in Greece is a vibrant mix of talented professionals from home and abroad representing all genres of artistic expression.
Each year, a roster of stellar events large and small, geared to all tastes take place throughout the country.
From jazz, to classical, to comedy to tragedy, photography, to sculpture, modern to folk art, the canvas of cultural events bursts with color!
Interesting and unique to Greece are the myriad of cultural venues in which to hold these events. They range from the ancient and classical to the modern and industrial, not to mention the all-natural on-the-beach type of “accommodations.”
Even more interesting to note is Greece’s cultural phenomenon of its summer festivals: each year, in the summer, the arts take to the road with each municipality hosting cultural festivals.
If you are an artist or work with artists, you might want to consider seeking out a cultural venue on a Greek island. The cost may be more affordable and, as far as attendance goes, especially in the peak season on a Greek island, lets just say it’s pretty sure you’ll have a captive audience.
On Naxos, the cultural venues that are available and known for hosting cultural events are breathtaking, historic and certainly unique. They range from ancient archaeological sites, to a Venetian tower, medieval castle, sandy beaches, a former convent, modern open-air amphitheater and traditional public school and administrative building auditoriums. Plus, kilometres of sandy coastline.
Here is a list of some that you might want to consider for your next event:
In Naxos Town
Ancient sites, Monuments, Historic Venues
- Portara, Temple of Apollo (ca. 530 BC) (outdoors, summer) – This is sure to be a spectacular event at one of Greece’s most recognized landmarks and ancient monuments. Ideal for: outdoor classical concerts; photo shoots; weddings
- Kastro, Naxos – Naxos’s historic fortified medieval castle hosts cultural events
- The Cultural Centre former Ursuline School and Monastery – renovated in 2010 this three-story building with several conference rooms, office space and outdoor areas, is ideal for professional conferences and large art exhibitions and cultural events
Public Buildings
- First Primary School – Each year popular singers appear here for large concerts.
- The Municipality Theatre Iakovos Kampanelis, Town Hall – Modern interior pace measuring 11x17metres; seating capacity: 235; Features: impressive marble entrance; stage (6.5 x 8m) with lights (spotlight, too) excellent acoustics; entrance and welcome area to the theater features a foyer (8x13m) and a bar. Today it is used as a venue for exhibitions and lectures. Also: stands, wireless network, wired and wireless microphones; projectors, etc. Ideal for theatrical performances, events, meetings, concerts, exhibitions (foyer).
Outside of Naxos Town
Ancient sites & Monuments
- Yria Archaeological Site / Temple of Dionysus at Yria
ancient site; 3 km from Naxos town - Archaeological Site of Gyroulas / Temple of Apollo and Demeter, Gyroulas, Sagri – ancient site; (530 B.C)
(4 km from Sagri, 15 km from Chora, Naxos) - Bazeos Tower, 17th century – former monastery, the castle was renovated and now is one of Naxos’s leading venues for art and cultural events
- Area at the church at Agios Nectarios, Tripodes
- The spring of Danakos at the village square of Danakos – this special natural spot under the 100 year old plantain and natural water spring hosts popular concerts every year in the summer
(25 km, 35 minutes from Chora)
Contemporary venues
- Municipal Stadium of Apiranthos, village of Apiranthos
(25 km, 35 minutes from Chora) - Cultural Center of Apiranthos, village of Apiranthos
(25 km, 35 minutes from Chora) - Andronikeio Cultural Center of Damarionas
(16 km, 25 minutes from Chora) - Amphitheatre M. Psarras, village of Filoti – capacity 700-800 seated; open-air (18 km, 25 minutes from Chora)
- Cultural Center, village of Filoti
(18 km, 25 minutes from Chora) - Fish and Olive Gallery — village of Chalki
(15 km, 20 minutes from Chora)
This gallery in the charming village of Chalki often hosts events and exhibitions - Cultural Multispace Vasilios Antonakis, village of Kinidaros
(15 km, 20 minutes from Chora) - Cultural Center, village of Komiaki
(18 km, 25 minutes from Chora)
Also worth mentioning: There are several charming spots and venues in the old town and downtown such as hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars that offer their space for art exhibitions, live concerts, dance and DJ events.
