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Arkoi-Marathi

Arki or Arkoi is a small island in the Dodecanese archipelago in Greece. It belongs to the municipality of Patmos. With a population of 44 inhabitants, the island does not have a real city, but most of the inhabitants live close to the main port. The population works mainly in the fields of fishing and goat breeding.

The land on the island is characterized by dry, rocky soil. The vegetation is formed of garrigue, with olive trees and some shrubs. The fauna consists mainly of livestock. It is possible to observe herons on the island. Marine life, unlike other Greek islands, is rather well preserved and includes several species of groupers or nudibranchs.

You can walk on the island and discover many interesting places, such as the Italian fortress, the caves, a shelter for the local occupants or many paths that lead to mysterious places on the island. Like every Greek island, Arkoi has its small churches. The most beautiful is probably the church of Panagia which enjoys a splendid view on the surrounding islands. Some other churches are: Agioi Anargiri, Metamorphosi, Agios Lefterios.

On the island, with the exception of the peace and tranquility which are the major assets, there are some beautiful beaches. Tiganakia is the most beautiful beach and is famous for its transparent blue waters. The beach is surrounded by rocks that protect from strong winds. Other beaches, just as beautiful as Limnari, Padelia and Kapsaliasmenos are not far.

The nearest inhabited island is Marathi, but the nearest islands with a large population are Lipsi and Patmos.
Marathi is a tiny rocky island of 355 acres east of the island of Patmos and west of the island of Arkoi with a total coastline of about 4 km. It is part of the Dodecanese Archipelago.

Marathi is a refuge for birds but also for many people who want to get away from the lights of civilization and the noise of big cities. There are no roads, shops or cars that could disrupt the tranquility of nature, apart from the goat-bells that roam freely on the island. It is an ideal destination for those who like to enjoy the tranquility of nature and isolated places. On the island there is a lovely beach, an old blue dome church, a restaurant serving fresh produce directly from nature and 10 rooms for rent.

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