We left the lovely small island of Lipsi and sailed downwind on just the genoa ( forward sail ) for the 17 Nautical miles to the island of Leros. 

We moored for two nights in Leros marina in the port town of Lakki, which is set within a huge natural, almost enclosed bay---- which has made it a safe anchorage for naval ships through time.

During the Italian occupation in 1923, Mussolini’s vision for a new Roman Empire was put into action. The result is the town now set on quite wide and long, straight roads which are edged with Art Deco architecture. The Art Deco styling would have been quite something in the 1920’s/30’s, sadly today most of it is derelict or crumbling.

It seems strange that such potentially beautiful buildings were obviously not used as homes or public buildings after World war Two.

Some of the grander Venetian style manor houses along the coastline are now nice homes, but many are also derelict.

Perhaps the Greek people never wanted to use such buildings ???

 

We hired a scooter to explore the island and on 14th August the island held a festival---- yes another Greek festival--- the Greeks certainly know how to hold a festival party for a religious or historic event. The small capital of Platanos transformed its square into a crowded arena for Greek music, all ages dancing, eating, drinking and having a good time.

 

We also visited the bay and shore side town of Panteli which is very nice and the Byzantine church and castle high above it perched on the cliff--- alongside old windmills.

The views from the top are spectacular.

 

Photos of-----------

 

Lakki Bay and Leros Marina

Art Deco buildings and seafront

Platanos Festival

Panteli and around the island 

Panteli Castle and Views/ windmills

 

Love to all

 

Tina and Tony x x