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Ydra is a very popular destination for Atheniean because it is very close to Athens for weekend trips. The island has a very reach history that is reflected in its buildings. It is also very interesting that the only automobile in the island is the grabage disposal truck. No cars or motorbikes allowed. Here is some of the islands history:

The island during the Ottoman occupation of Greece was largely left alone by the Turks most likely because of its lack of water. In 1792 the town was almost completely abandoned when the plague killed much of the population but by the end of the 18th century Hydra had become quite prosperous because of its commercial fleet which was trading as far as France, Spain and even America. During the Napoleonic wars it was the Hydriotes ships which broke the English blockades and were able to feed the hungry people of France and Spain. The island was quite wealthy at this time and was in a position to contribute their ships and supplies to the cause of Independence from the Turks.

In the 1950's Hydra was discovered by the early tourists, many of whom had read of it in Henry Miller's Collossus of Marousi. Since then the island has prospered, living off its beauty as the mansions and homes have been restored. It is a popular place with artists as well as writers who come for inspiration and sometimes never leave.Hydra is truly one of the most beautiful islands in Greece.

Since this is an old photo scanned from a negative, it was heavily processed in neat image. Some crop in PS and finally USM.