Kastellorizo becomes Europe’s first COVID-free destination

·

The Greek island of Kastellorizo is being hailed a success for its vaccine rollout, becoming the first in Europe to be totally COVID-free.

Tucked away in a remote part of the Aegean Sea, a few kilometres from the Turkish coast, it’s successfully inoculated all of its 520 residents against COVID-19, with first and second doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Since last March, only one COVID-19 case has been detected on Kastellorizo. The Greek government is trying to protect small islands that do not have large hospitals by vaccinating their whole populations.

The Greek island of Kastellorizo is being hailed a success for its vaccine rollout, becoming the first in Europe to be totally COVID-free.

Greece’s strategy is, therefore, to make all small and remote areas COVID-19-free ahead of the summer. They will promote this strategy internationally, with the hope of giving a new impetus to tourism.

Many travel agencies have already turned their attention to Kastellorizo and, according to Ethnos Greece, they estimate that this year will see a 35% increase in tourism to the island.

Arid and rocky Kastellorizo â€‹â€‹is said to be an unspoilt paradise. It has an ancient castle and a cathedral-like Blue Grotto – a sea cavern accessible only by lying flat on a boat.

Being so close to Turkey, the colourful island was once part of the Ottoman Empire. So in addition to the typical Greek churches and chapels, you will also find a mosque with its minaret.

Source: Euronews.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

Debate grows over Archbishop Makarios’ comments on Greek language in Orthodox liturgy

A debate has emerged within the Orthodox community in Australia after Archbishop Makarios reaffirmed the importance of Greek in liturgy.

Bridging borders: John Tripidakis on protecting Greek assets from abroad

For many Australians with ties to Greece, managing legal matters across borders can feel complex, confusing, and at times overwhelming.

Dimitra Skalkos on Ouzo Talk: The reality of running The Greek Herald at 100

As The Greek Herald enters its 100th year, the milestone marks a century of continuous publication serving the Greek Australian community.

Open letter urges constructive path forward for Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation

In an open letter, Leon Bombotas reflects on the future of the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation following its entry into voluntary admin.

‘Untamed Voices’ sells out, delivering a powerful tribute to rebetiko and female expression

The 44th Greek Festival of Sydney proudly presented Untamed Voices on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the iconic Factory Theatre.

You May Also Like

What to expect from the Federal Budget 2021: Aged care overhaul, borders and migration

A remedy for a shortage of workers, support for the elderly to stay in their own homes and more resources for residential facilities will...

Hellenic Lyceum of Sydney amaze Greek community with preview of costume exhibition

Traditional Greek costumes from regions as widespread as Crete, Macedonia, Epirus and Kastellorizo were visible as far as the eye could see at the...

The adventures of a Greek man stuck in Australia during the pandemic

Yiannis Giannopoulos and his wife have been making a car ride around Australia during the coronavirus pandemic.