Olympus is the northernmost village of the island and it has the highest
altitude. It is situated on the northernmost foothills of Mount Prophet Elias
(718m).
The settlement spreads out along both sides of the mountain line where
the series of graphic pedal-shaped windmills are to be found.
The traditional housing of Olympus are singel levelled one-roomed
houses with only one additional room serving as a kitchen.
Olympus preserves a rich folk tradition even today. The local dialect
preserves impressive remnants of ancient and Medieval Greek. The custom of “enjoyment”
which is still observed to a great degree and the traditional costume worn still
by the older women as well as the young during festivals, make Olympus an oasis
of traditional culture in our times.
(Text: Manolis Makris)
This text (extract) is cited February 2004 from the Dodekanissos
Union of Municipalities & Communities pamphlet.
