The islands have been inhabited since the Prehistoric Age, and the locals boast that this is where Calypsó bewitched Odysséas (now, if there is any relation between LEIPSÓS and KALYPSÓ, I am unaware of it). The temple dedicated to Apóllonas of Leipsós (4th century BC) once stood on the site of the church of Ágios Nikólaos, in the bay of Leipsós. It is probable that the acropolis of the ancient city, overlooking the town, stood in the area of “Kástro” and the sea haven was then where the shipyard stands today.
From the 11th up until the 16th centuries it belonged to the Monastery of Pátmos (they were so assigned by the Byzantine Emperor Aléxios I). Generally the fate of these islands followed that of the Dodecanese and in 1948 they were reunited with Mother Greece.
Sightseeing: It is very nice for walking. The central island together with the islands surrounding it and the Arkioí islands to the north complete a complex of at least 40 islands, one close to the other, full of surprises, where you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday close to nature.
The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary is in the church of Ágios Ioánnis. There are wonderful ecclesiastic and folk collections in the Town Hall and Museum.
The dark Leipsian wine is very famous (the Vatican used to use it for Communion). But beware, it is very potent. Don’t get carried away during the first fortnight of August, when the wine festival is held, by drinking too much.
