The unique village of Klima on Milos

Klima is situated below the village of Tripiti, about four kilometres northwest of Adamas. Just above Klima are some of Milos' most famous sights: the ancient theatre, the catacombs and the place where the famous statues Venus de Milo and Poseidon of Milos were found.

The unique village of Klima seen from the sea. The village Tripiti visible above.

Klima is one of the most unusual and beautiful villages on Milos. There are hardly any streets to speak of, and almost all the houses stand just a few metres from the sea. Sometimes the waves reach right up to the walls. But what really makes Klima special is its colourful boathouses.

The colorful houses in Klima are called syrmata in Greek.

These traditional boathouses are called syrmata in Greek. The name comes from the Greek word meaning to pull or drag, which is exactly what the fishermen used to do with their boats. When storms approached, they pulled their boats into the ground floors of the houses to protect them from the wind and waves. Many of the boathouses are partly carved into the volcanic rock. The upper floors were often used as living quarters for the fishermen and their families. Today, many of these charming buildings have been converted into summer homes and holiday accommodation.

The only "street" in Klima runs along the water.

But Klima has a much longer history than its colourful boathouses might suggest. This was once the harbour of the ancient city of Melos. Remains of two ancient harbour piers can still be found here, and archaeological excavations have uncovered buildings dating from both the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It is fascinating to imagine that this small, peaceful village was once a busy harbour, with ships arriving and departing more than two thousand years ago

The statue of Poseidon of Milos was found in Klima in 1877.

Another remarkable discovery was made in Klima in 1877, when an impressive marble statue of the sea god Poseidon was found. The statue stands no less than 2.35 metres tall and dates from the late 2nd century BC. Poseidon is depicted with his right arm raised, probably once holding his famous trident, which has unfortunately been lost. Beside his leg is a small dolphin, a fitting companion for the god of the sea. Today, the statue is on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, where I photographed it. It may not be as famous as the Venus de Milo, but it is certainly just as impressive in its own way.

The fantastic boathouses in Klima.

Personally, I think Klima is at its most beautiful when seen from the sea. From there, you get a fantastic view of the colourful boathouses lined up along the waterfront. But the village is, of course, well worth visiting by land as well. There is something very special about strolling past the houses with the sea right beside you.

The unique village of Klima in one direction.

These days, there is also a restaurant right by the water called Astakas Cafe Restaurant. It is particularly known for its fish and seafood dishes, and its location overlooking the sea is wonderful. I think this is a welcome addition, as a taverna was something I missed during my earlier visits to Klima. During the high season, booking a table in advance may be a good idea. If you are looking for a wider choice of tavernas, you will find several up in Tripiti.

Another lovely way to admire Klima is from the ancient theatre above the village. From there, you have a beautiful view of the houses and the sea. If you take a boat trip around Milos, there is also a good chance you will see Klima from the water, as many excursion boats pass by the village.

Klima seen from the ancient theater.

WHAT YOU MUST NOT MISS WHEN YOU VISIT KLIMA

Don't miss the catacombs, which you can read about here »

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