Exomvourgo: Tinos's Towering Sentinel

Explore Exomvourgo, Tinos: a historic mountain with Venetian castle ruins, stunning views, and rock climbing for all levels.

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Greece
South Aegean
Exomvourgo

Exomvourgo is a striking mountain on the island of Tinos, Greece, crowned with the ruins of a Venetian fortress. Historically significant since the Bronze Age, it served as the island's administrative center and offered refuge from pirates, with panoramic views of the Cyclades from its peak.

A brief summary to Exomvourgo

Exomvourgo, GR

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes for the hike to the summit, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Bring water and sun protection, especially during the summer months, as there is limited shade on the mountain.
Consider visiting in spring or autumn for milder weather and ideal climbing conditions.
Explore the traditional villages surrounding Exomvourgo, such as Tripotamos and Koumaros, for a taste of local culture.

Getting There

Bus

From Tinos town, take the local bus towards Xinara. The bus departs twice daily, Monday to Friday, and the journey takes approximately 18 minutes, costing €2-€3. From Xinara, follow the signs towards Exomvourgo; it's roughly a 10-minute walk to the base of the mountain.
Taxi

A taxi from Tinos town to Exomvourgo takes about 9 minutes and costs approximately €30-€40. Ask the driver to take you to Xinara, from where you can easily walk to the start of the hiking trail.
Walking

For experienced hikers, it's possible to walk from Tinos town to Exomvourgo. The hike is approximately 5.2 km and takes just over an hour. Follow the main road uphill, passing through Tripotamos, then follow signs to Xinara and Exomvourgo.

Discover more about Exomvourgo

Rising dramatically from the heart of Tinos, Exomvourgo is more than just a mountain; it's a landmark steeped in history and legend. Its rugged peak, reaching approximately 640 meters, has been a strategic location since prehistoric times. The name Exomvourgo, also seen as Xombourgo, derives from the Venetian term 'Sobborgo,' meaning 'near the castle'. In ancient times, Exomvourgo was the site of Tinos's acropolis and administrative center, with archeological evidence tracing back to the Bronze Age. The mountain's strategic importance grew during the Byzantine era when a fortress was erected to protect the inhabitants from pirate raids. This fortress was later fortified by the Venetians, who ruled the island from 1390 and named it Castello di Santa Elena. The castle became a key defense against the Ottomans, featuring impressive ramparts, towers and enough space to house thousands of people. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this once-mighty fortress and the Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, built by Jesuit monks after the castle's destruction in 1715. The mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tinos and the surrounding Cycladic islands, rewarding hikers with vistas stretching as far as Naxos, Serifos and Kythnos. Exomvourgo is also a popular destination for rock climbers, with various climbing routes available for both beginners and advanced climbers.