Nowadays, Plaka is the island’s capital and it is also one of the most intact capitals of Cyclades.
Its name comes from the level ground upon which the houses of its first inhabitants were built, when the Castle (Kastro) could no longer house the entire population.
Built on a hillock of 220m above sea level, with the use of island colors and according to the Cycladic architecture, with picturesque tiled alleys originally built for the protection against pirates, with small traditional shops, restaurants and cafeterias and with a magical view to the bay of Milos, Plaka composes a scenery of infinite beauty that you must visit and explore. (The circulation of cars is forbidden).
On the hill top of Plaka lies the imposing Venetian “Castle” dated from the 13th century from where you can enjoy idyllic sunsets with beautiful colors and the panoramic view to the island’s bay, as well as to neighboring Cycladic islands. The Assumption of the Virgin or else “Mesa Panaghia” is the church to be found on the top of the Castle, whereas climbing up to the Castle and descending from it, you will find another exquisite church built on a black rock: The Ypapanti of Christ or Panaghia Thalassitra. Moreover, do not miss out to visit ‘’Panaghia Korfiatissa” which is the island’s cathedral from where you can enjoy a dreamy sunset right from its marble yard.
Lastly, in the traditional settlement of Plaka, you will find most of the public services and the two museums that preserve the island’s cultural heritage, meaning its archaeological and folkloreheritage.