Situated eight kilometers inland from Mykonos Town in a peaceful rural setting, the village of Ano Mero is rich in history and culture. It has a small central square with a number of coffee shops and tavernas offering traditional greek delicacies. There are several choices of accommodation in Ano Mera and the village can serve as a base from which to explore some of the beautiful beaches of Mykonos, including Kalo Livadi, Elia, Kalafatis and Agia Anna Kalafatis.
With its interesting architecture and carved marble belltower and fountain, the 16th century monastery of Panagia Tourliani is one of the island most important historical attractions. The richly decorated interior of the monastery features an 18th century wooden altar screen with intricately painted flowers and icons. The monastery is also home to carved figures of the apostles, displays of ancient icons, embroideries, decorative incense holders and other items.
On a hill to the north of the town is the 18th century Paleokastro Monastery - a square white-washed building which is typical of architecture found in the Cyclades. The building, which was once a nunnery, includes a large dovecote and the Church of Agio Vlassis. The remains of a Byzantine castle can be seen nearby and it is from this historic site that the monastery took it's name. Visitors can also view an ancient three meter high granite menhir which is believed to have been either a symbol of worship in the distant past, or a gravestone.
Collect your bike rental, ATV rental or buggy rental from OK Mykonos and enjoy your journey inland to the charming village of Ano Mera. Contact us to make the necessary arrangements.
(Ano Mera pictures courtesy of Bernard Gagnon and Bgabel at Wikimedia Commons)
