One of the most important philosophers and mathematicians of ancient times, Pythagoras, lived in Samos.

The astronomer Aristarchos and the philosopher Epikouros were born in this Aegean island.

According to mythology, goddess Hera was also born in Samos island, close to Imvrasos’ river mouth. There, are found the remains of a temple dedicated to her. It is a grandiose construction which, according to Irodotos, was the biggest and the most important of its time.

During ancient times Samos was an important cultural center. As it seems from the findings, a great civilization flourished in the island during the tyranny of Polykrates, around 550 BC. It was then that Samos was the first naval force in Aegean sea and the center of the Ionic civilization. The famous temple of Hera and the Efpalinian Trench, the ancient aqueduct, one of the biggest technical works of antiquity were built then.

Samos followed the route of the rest Aegean islands. It was conquered by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Turkish. It suffered from pirate invasions. It was ruined and reborn through its breakage many times.

Now, Samos, beautiful than ever, combines the insular architecture with the baronial nobility and is a pole of attraction for thousands of travelers every year.