Drakontoschisma: The Dragon's Rift

Drakontoschisma, meaning "Dragon's Rift," is a captivating natural attraction located between Stafylos and Amarantos on the island of Skopelos. This impressive rock formation appears to have been precisely cut, as if by human hands, creating a dramatic cleft in the landscape. The turquoise waters below enhance the visual spectacle, making it a must-see location. The area's name originates from a local legend. According to the tale, about 800 years ago, a dragon terrorized Skopelos, devouring its inhabitants and forcing them to abandon the island. The neighboring islands even sent condemned prisoners to be eaten by the beast. This reign of terror lasted for approximately 400 years until Agios Riginos, the island's patron saint, arrived to confront the dragon. When Agios Riginos landed on Skopelos, near Elios, and exclaimed, “Where in God's mercy (eleos) is the monster”, the dragon was frightened and fled. The saint pursued the dragon to the area between Stafylos and Amarantos, where the dragon, with no escape, leaped off the cliff into the sea. The force of the dragon's jump split the rock, creating the rift known as Drakontoschisma. Today, visitors can admire Drakontoschisma from above, where a stone-built kiosk with a small shrine offers a safe vantage point. Access to the rocky beach below is only possible by boat.