This island is the second largest in Greece, after Crete. Long and narrow, it stretches over the Aegean Sea very close alongside the shores of Mainland Greece, separated from it by the Gulf of Euboea and the famous Evripos Straits. At some points a mere 20 feet from the main land of Greece. Its proximity to the main land does lead to an interesting phenomena, the current between the island and the main land change directions several times a day. It is said that Aristotle, upon observing this and not being able to explain it hurled himself into the current to his death. While this is a myth, in reality Aristotle did die in Halkinda.
Halkida, the island's capital, was a renowned trading centre which established several colonies and contained famous temples dedicated to Zeus, Apollo and the goddess Hera.
This webpage created by Elizabeth Van Rij