Marathokampos

Marathokampos, built amphitheatrically on the slopes of Mount Kerkis, is a traditional settlement of southern Samos with superb views of the Aegean and the surrounding islands. Founded in the late 16th century, it has preserved significant elements of traditional architecture, with narrow, maze‑like lanes and houses built close together for defense against pirates. Historically it was a major commercial and seafaring center with a large fleet of wooden caiques and a diversified economy that included agriculture, fishing, and the production of anise, carobs, and silk. Today, the economy is based mainly on agriculture and tourism, while visitors can tour traditional landmarks such as the Church of Saint Athanasios, the public fountain of Louga, the Monastery of the Dormition, and visit the beaches at Ormos and the Marathokampos plain as well as Pythagoras’s Cave.