Paxos Island (Lakka-Gaios, Greece)

Paxos Island (together with Antipaxos) are the largest of Ionian Islands (Heptanese) located in Ionian Sea (Eastern Mediterranean). The Paxi island group covers a total area of approx 30120 km2 (11630 mi2) and has total population around 2,300. Paxos island is serviced by ferries from Igoumenitsa (mainland Greece, crossing time 1,5 hours) and by and hydrofoil craft from Corfu (travel time 1 hour) and from italy - Bari and Brindisi (travel time 4 hours).

Antipaxos is popular for its wine and fine sand beaches. Port Gaios is the island's main port and largest town. In Greek mythology, Poseidon made the isle by striking Corfu with a trident, so that he and his wife Amphitrite could live in peace.

Though it was probably inhabited from prehistoric times, Phoenicians are traditionally considered island's first settlers. The name could be derived from "Pax", meaning trapezoidal.

The Battle of Paxos (during First Illyrian War / 229 BC) was fought between the fleets of Illyrians and ancient Greeks. From 2nd century BC the Romans ruled the island. During Middle Ages and Byzantine period it constantly suffered by pirate attacks. Following various Crusaders and rulers, at the end of 14th century Paxos Island was taken by the Venetians.

During Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815), Ionian Islands were taken by the Russo-Turkish alliance and France. In February 1814, the island was conquered by the British, who in 1815 established the Ionian Union. In 1864, the Heptanese were ceded to Greece.

The presence of celebrities, and the development of coastal area (mostly by Italians) explains why Paxos Island has become one of the most expensive pieces of Greek real estate. 

Paxos Island cruise terminal