Salamis island - wikipedia Salamis island Jump to : navigation , search For other uses , see Salamis . Salamis Σαλαμίνα View of Salamina Salamis Location within the region ( show ) Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Country Greece Administrative region Attica Regional unit Islands Government Mayor Ioannis Tsavaris ( Ind . ) Area Municipality 96.16 km ( 37.13 sq mi ) Population ( 2011 ) Municipality 39,283 Municipality density 410 / km ( 1,100 / sq mi ) Time zone EET ( UTC + 2 ) Summer ( DST ) EEST ( UTC + 3 ) Postal code 189 xx Area code ( s ) 21 Vehicle registration Y Website www.salamina.gr Salamis ( / ˈsæləmɪs / ; Greek : Σαλαμίνα Salamína , Ancient and Katharevousa : Σαλαμίς Salamís ) , is the largest Greek island in the Saronic Gulf , about 1 nautical mile ( 2 km ) off - coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres ( 10 miles ) west of Athens . The chief city , Salamina , lies in the west - facing core of the crescent on Salamis Bay , which opens into the Saronic Gulf . On the Eastern side of the island is its main port , Paloukia , in size second in Greece only to Piraeus , the port of Athens . Contents ( hide ) 1 Name 2 History 3 Geography 4 Municipality 5 Population 6 Villages in the municipal unit of Salamina 6.1 Paloukia 6.2 Aianteio 6.3 Batsi 6.4 Kaki Vigla 6.5 Agios Georgios 6.6 Peristeria 6.7 Psili Ammos 6.8 Steno 6.9 Vasilika 6.10 Xeno 7 Villages in the municipal unit of Ampelakia 7.1 Kynosoura 7.2 Selinia 8 Culture 8.1 Education 8.2 Recreational areas 8.3 Sports 8.4 Local newspapers and magazines 9 Landmarks 10 Noted people 10.1 Mythological and ancient people 10.2 Modern people 11 Twin towns / sister cities 12 Gallery 13 See also 14 References 15 External links Name ( edit ) The traditional etymology of Salamis derives it from the eponymous nymph Salamis , the mother of Cychreus , the legendary first king of the island . A more modern theory considers `` Salamis '' to come from the root sal ' salt ' and - amis ' middle ' ; thus Salamis would be the place amid salt water . Some scholars connect it to the Semitic root Š - L-M ' health , safety , peace ' , because of the well - sheltered harbor . From at least the 13th century until the 19th century , the town , the island , and the bay of Salamis were called Koulouri ( Κουλούρι ) , presumably because it was round like the bread called ' koulouri ' . The ancient name was revived in the 19th century . The name Koulouri is still used informally for the town . History ( edit ) Coin of Salamis , 339 -- 318 BC . Obverse : Female head . Reverse : Boeotian shield ( shield of Ajax ) and sword in sheath Salamis is mentioned in Homer 's writings . Salamis was probably first colonised by Aegina and later occupied by Megara , but became an Athenian possession in the time of Solon or Peisistratos , following the war between Athens and Megara around 600 BC . According to Strabo , the ancient capital was at the south of the island ; in classical times it was to the east , on the Kamatero Peninsula overlooking the Strait of Salamis ; in modern times it is on the west . According to Homer 's Iliad , Salamis took part in the Trojan War with twelve ships under the leadership of Ajax ( Aias ) . Salamis island is known for the Battle of Salamis , the decisive naval victory of the allied Greek fleet , led by Themistocles , over the Persian Empire in 480 BC . It is said to be the birthplace of Ajax and Euripides , the latter 's birth being popularly placed on the day of the battle . In modern times , it is home to Salamis Naval Base , headquarters for the Hellenic Navy . The oldest known counting board was discovered on Salamis Island in 1899 . It is thought to have been used by the Babylonians in about 300 BC and is more of a gaming board rather than a calculating device . It is marble , about 150 cm × 75 cm × 4.5 cm ( 59 in × 30 in × 2 in ) , and has carved Greek symbols and parallel grooves . During the German invasion of Greece in World War II , the harbor was bombed by the Luftwaffe on April 23 , 1941 , sinking the Greek battleships Kilkis and Lemnos . In the 1960s and 1970s , during the military junta period , changes in land legislation allowed the subdivision of land plots . This opened the island to massive unplanned and unregulated urban and suburban development , including many weekend homes , especially along the northern and eastern coasts . The lack of corresponding investment in infrastructure , combined with heavy industry , has led to sea and beach pollution on this side of the island . There are , however , ongoing initiatives such as help from the European Union 's Cohesion Fund toward improving sewerage by 2008 . Salamis island map An oil spill occurred off the coast of Salamis Island in September 2017 . Geography ( edit ) Salamis has an area of 36 square miles ( 93 km ) ; its highest point is Mavrovouni at 1,325 feet ( 404 metres ) . A significant part of Salamis Island is rocky and mountainous . On the southern part of the island a pine forest is located , which is unusual for western Attica . Unfortunately , this forest is often a target for fires . While the inland inhabitants are mainly employed within the agricultural sector , the majority of Salamis ' inhabitants work in maritime occupations ( fishing , ferries , and the island 's shipyards ) or commute to work in Athens . The maritime industry is focused on the north - east coast of the island at the port of Paloukia ( Παλούκια ) , where ferries to mainland Greece are based , and in the dockyards of Ampelakia and the north side of the Kynosoura peninsula . Salamis Island is very popular for holiday and weekend visits from the Athens and Piraeus area ; its population rises to 300,000 in peak season of which c. 31,000 are permanent inhabitants . This supports a strong service industry sector , with many cafes , bars , ouzeries , tavernas and consumer goods shops throughout the island . On the south of the island , away from the port , there are a number of less developed areas with good swimming beaches including those of Aianteio , Maroudi , Perani , Peristeria , Kolones , Saterli , Selenia and Kanakia . Municipality ( edit ) Salamis Island belongs to the Islands regional unit of the Attica region . Since the 2011 local government reform the island is administered as one municipality . Before , the island was divided into two municipalities , that became municipal units at the reform : Salamina Ampelakia In the municipal unit of Salamina , which has a land area of 80.992 square kilometres ( 31.271 sq mi ) and a 2011 census population of 31,776 , the chief population centre is the city of Salamina ( also called Salamis , Salamis City or Koulouris , pop . 25,888 in 2011 ) , consisting of the districts Alonia , Agios Minas , Agios Dimitrios , Agios Nikolaos , Boskos , Nea Salamina , Tsami and Vourkari . Its second - largest town is Aiánteio ( pop . 5,888 ) . In the municipal unit of Ampelakia , which has a land area of 15.169 square kilometres ( 5.857 sq mi ) and a population of 7,507 , the largest towns are Ampelakia ( pop. 4,998 ) and Selinia ( 2,509 ) . Population ( edit ) As of the mid-20th century , the majority of the inhabitants were Arvanite ; a thing that changed during the past 20 years due to settlement of a lot of Athenians on the island to the degree that nowadays Arvanites are a fraction of the population , living mainly in Salamina town , Ampelakia and Moulki ( Aianteion ) . The island is known in Arvanitika as Κȣλλȣρι ( `` Koullouri '' ) . Year Salamina ( town ) Salamina ( municipal unit ) Salamis ( island ) 1981 20,807 25,215 30,402 1991 22,567 27,582 34,342 25,730 30,962 38,022 2011 25,888 31,776 39,283 Villages in the municipal unit of Salamina ( edit ) Salamis Naval Base Batsi beach Paloukia ( edit ) Paloukia ( Greek : Παλούκια , population 1,695 ) is located in the northeast of the island . Many ferryboats , fishing vessels and port police craft dock in this harbor . Paloukia is the base for the port police department of Salamina . Most visitors who come to Salamina first arrive at Paloukia via ferryboats that run between Paloukia and Perama or Piraeus . The area is adjacent to the Salamis Naval Base ( in Greek Nafstathmos ) , which is a major base of the Hellenic Navy . Aianteio ( edit ) Aianteio ( Greek : Αιάντειο , population 4,860 as of March 16 , 2011 ) is a large village in the southwestern part of Salamis Island and is named after Ajax , `` King of the Salamis '' , from Homer 's Iliad . The village was known as Moulki ( Μούλκι ) until 1915 . In the region , there are churches from the 11th and 12th centuries such as Saint John and Saint Dimitrios . Interesting places to visit are : the oldest church in the island , Saint John the `` Kalyvitis '' , which dates back to the 10th century and has remarkable hagiographies the monastery of Saint Nicolas which dates back to the 18th century and is situated in a forest . Batsi ( edit ) Batsi ( Greek : Μπατσί ) is a little community ( population 212 ) in the north of Salamis , in the municipality of Salamis , located at the foot of a piney mountain , about 6 to 8 km ( 4 to 5 mi ) east of Megara . In the mountain , there is a cave of archeological interest that has not been investigated yet . In the winter there are few tourists ; it is more popular with vacationers from Athens during the summer months . Kaki Vigla ( edit ) The Stone Lighthouse , 1901 , Peristeria Kaki Vigla ( Greek : Κακή Βίγλα ) is a small community ( population 236 ) located at the south of Salamis Island , near Aianteio . The beaches of Kaki Vigla are relatively clean and the area has pine and olive trees near the shore . Agios Georgios ( edit ) A new village , founded in 1960 . Peristeria ( edit ) Peristeria ( Greek : Περιστέρια , population 456 ) is a small village in the southeast of the island 45 km ( 28 mi ) from Salamis City . It took its name from the bird of peace , the dove ( Greek : περιστέρι ) , because it is a calm , peaceful and isolated place , away from the cars and from noise . Another interpretation says that its name may be derived from the doves which were living and had nests in the area . View of Salamina The area has a marina , which has yachts and fishing boats . The beaches of Peristeria are the cleanest of Salamis . The village is near the Cave of Euripides , associated with the famous ancient playwright . Psili Ammos ( edit ) Psili Ammos ( Greek : Ψιλή Άμμος , population 271 ) , which means Fine Sand is so named because it is covered with sand . The area is located at the northwest of the island opposite of Elefsina . In the area there is one of the oldest landmarks , the chantry of Saint Grigorios ( Saint Gregory ) . Steno ( edit ) Steno ( Greek : Στενό , population 985 ) , which means Narrow in Greek , is a small community in the northwest of Salamis Island . The area is separated from Fanaromeni Monastery by a hill with shrubs and pine trees . The area is adjacent to the bay of Agios Georgios . Steno has wide and well - planned roads . Aianteio Beach Vasilika ( edit ) Vasilika ( Greek : Βασιλικά , population 4,264 ) which means Royal is a big village located in the northwest of the island . Vasilika is the third largest area in Salamis by population after Salamis City and Aianteio . Vasilika has a sandy large beach apt for swimming . Xeno ( edit ) Xeno ( Greek : Ξένο `` foreign '' , population 786 ) is located in the northwest corner of the island . The area was so named because the first residents were not from Salamis but from nearby Piraeus . Villages in the municipal unit of Ampelakia ( edit ) Ruins of ancient classical city and the port of Salamis ( 5th to 2nd BC ) Ampelakia Main article : Ampelakia Kynosoura ( edit ) Kynosoura ( Greek : Κυνόσουρα ) ( Greek : κυνός - ουρά `` dog 's tail '' ) is a small peninsula located in the east of the island . The name probably comes from the shape of the peninsula , long and thin and pointed at the end . In the south are a few houses ( population 69 ) . In the north are the remains of an ancient tumulus thought to be the burial site of Greek warriors in the Battle of Salamis . Nearby is a dockyard , which constructs and fixes ships including oil tankers and containers . Selinia ( edit ) Selinia ( Greek : Σελήνια , population 2.523 ) is a resort located a few kilometers southeast of Salamis city . Selinia once was the weekend resort of many Athenians due to its proximity to Piraeus and Athens . Selinia also features restaurants and taverns Folklore Museum & Salamina Municipal Library . In the Municipal building . ( Town Hall ) Culture ( edit ) Education ( edit ) Salamis island has eleven primary schools ( ten public and one private ) , four high schools , and four lycees . The majority of students are proficient in school , and the pupils ( above 13 years ) usually have acquired diplomas and certificates in English , in French , or in German such as ECCE , FCE , CPE , and ECPE . Many students from Salamis island also possess many computer skills . Many students also study abroad in countries such as the United States , the United Kingdom , Germany , and France . In the 1960s , 1970s , and 1980s , the pupils went to Italy for studies since it was close to Greece . Recreational areas ( edit ) In Salamis Bay , a visitor can find many bars , cafeterias , beaches , and shops . The main cafeterias and bars are based in Agios Nikolaos , which is located in the western suburbs of Salamis city . The district is named for the church . Taverns and inns , which are located throughout the island , feature local food and dishes . The shops -- which sell appliances , computers , clothing , souvenirs , and vehicles -- are opened from 8 : 00 a.m. to 2 : 00 p.m. and from 5 : 30 p.m. to 9 : 00 p.m. on weekdays ; from 9 : 00 a.m. to 1 : 30 p.m. and 6 : 00 p.m to 8 : 30 p.m. on Saturdays . Sports ( edit ) Salamis island has four football teams : Aias ( Ajax ) Salaminas , Ampelakiakos F.C. , A.E. Salaminas and Salaminomachoi . Local newspapers and magazines ( edit ) Salamina - Press 30 Imeres tis Salaminas ( 30 Days of Salamina ) Anatropes ( Tippings ) Apopsi ( Opinion ) Athlitikoi Palmoi ( Athletic Vibrations ) I Enotita tis Salaminas ( The Unity of Salamis ) I Nea Salamina ( The New Salamis ) I Foni tis Salaminas ( The Voice of Salamis ) Neo Ithos tis Salaminas ( New Morale of Salamis ) Palmos tis Salaminas ( Pulse of Salamis ) Politis me dikaioma ( Citizen With Rights ) Salaminiaki Protoporia ( Salaminian Vanguard ) Sports Week Salamina Mycenaean acropolis at Kanakia 13th century BC Source : Landmarks ( edit ) Monument for the Battle of Salamis , Kynosoura peninsula by sculptor Achilles Vasileiou . Archaeological Museum of Salamis Circular funerary , 4th century BC in Kolones Landmark Year of construction Location Faneromeni Monastery 15th century Faneromeni Chantry of Saint George around 1250 Agios Georgios Mycenaean city of Salamis 13th century BC Kanakia Ancient city and port of Salamis 5th -- 1st centuries BC Ampelakia Fighters tomb of the naval Battle of Salamis 5th century BC Ampelakia , Kynosoura Circular funerary 4th century BC Kolones Euripideio Theatre in suburbs of Salamis City ( in hill Patris ) Church of Saint Dimitrios 1806 center of Salamis City ( in hononymous district ) The Cave of Euripides 450 BC at south Salamis Island ( near Peristeria ) The Cottage of Angelos Sikelianos 1935 Faneromeni The Stone Lighthouse 1901 Peristeria The bust of Georgios Karaiskakis 1982 center of Salamis City ( in Vourkari district ) The Windmills 19th century in suburbs of Salamis City ( in a hill ) Chantry of Prophet Elias early of 20th century Salamis City ( in a stone hill ) Chantry of Saint Grygorios 12th century Psili Ammos The Stony small Theater Selinia The City Hall of Salamis 2000 Salamis City The Monastery of Saint Nicolaos 17th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Church of Saint John the Kalyvitis 11th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Folklore Museum 2000 lodging at Salamis City Hall Archaeological museum of Salamis 2013 Salamis City The Mansion of Galeos Family 19th century at Salamis center ( at Agios Minas district ) The Church of Saint Minas 1869 at Salamis City ( at Agios Minas district ) Noted people ( edit ) Ajax the Great Euripides Mythological and ancient people ( edit ) Ajax the Great , the legendary king of Salamis island , son of Telamon and half - brother of Teucer Cychreus , the first king of Salamis Island Euripides , tragedian ( 480 BC -- 406 BC ) Moerocles , orator ( 4th century BC ) Telamon , the king of Salamis Island , father of Ajax the Great and Teucer Teucer , the half - brother of Ajax the Great , son of Telamon , warrior of Trojan War , and founder of the city - state of Salamis , Cyprus . Modern people ( edit ) Georgios Karaiskakis ( c. 1780 -- 1827 ) , Greek War of Independence hero , is buried on Salamis . Polychronis Lempesis ( 1848 -- 1913 ) , painter Memos Mpegnis ( 1974 - ) , actor Dimitrios Mpogris ( 1890 -- 1964 ) , playwright Giorgos Papasideris ( 1902 -- 1977 ) , country singer , composer and lyricist Angelos Sikelianos ( 1884 -- 1951 ) , poet and playwright , whose cottage was near the Monastery of Faneromeni . Twin towns / sister cities ( edit ) See also : List of twin towns and sister cities in Greece Salamis Island is twinned with Famagusta , Cyprus ( 1998 ) Gallery ( edit ) Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla Gulf The historic monastery of Faneromeni Nicolas Lemonia monastery 17th century AD , on the road between the villages Aianteio and Kanakia Kanakia beach See also ( edit ) Trojan War Greek Revolution Aeacus References ( edit ) ^ Jump up to : `` Απογραφή Πληθυσμού - Κατοικιών 2011 . ΜΟΝΙΜΟΣ Πληθυσμός '' ( in Greek ) . Hellenic Statistical Authority . ^ Jump up to : Bell , Robert E. ( 1988 ) . Place Names in Classical Mythology : Greece . ABC - CLIO Ltd . ISBN 978 - 0 - 87436 - 507 - 8 . Jump up ^ Martin Bernal , Black Athena , p. 492 Jump up ^ William Miller , The Latins in the Levant , a history of Frankish Greece ( 1204 -- 1566 ) , New York , 1908 , p. 18 Jump up ^ Peter Mackridge , Language and National Identity in Greece , 1766 - 1976 , Oxford University Press , 2010 , p. 22 Jump up ^ `` Salamis '' , Oxford Dictionary of the Classical World , Ed . John Roberts . Oxford University Press , 2007 . Jump up ^ Rossiter , Stuart ; Benn , Ernest ( 1981 ) . Greece -- Blue Guide series . Jump up ^ Homer . The Iliad . Jump up ^ `` salamis '' . Archived from the original on January 3 , 2008 . Jump up ^ `` Kilkis ( Battleship , 1914 -- 1941 ) '' . Naval Historical Center . Archived from the original on October 16 , 2012 . Jump up ^ `` Lemnos ( Battleship , 1914 -- 1941 ) '' . Naval Historical Center . Archived from the original on July 6 , 2014 . Jump up ^ `` One - sixth of houses are for vacation use '' . Kathimerini. April 19 , 2006 . Archived from the original on March 18 , 2008 . ^ Jump up to : Polyxeni Athanassoulia ( September 7 , 2006 ) . `` Salamina , so near yet so unknown '' . Kathimerini . Archived from the original on March 18 , 2008 . Jump up ^ http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/greek-island-bay-black-oil-spill-salamis-selinia-taker-sinks-ecological-disaster-athens-a7944291.html Jump up ^ `` Salamis '' . Howstuffworks . Archived from the original on March 11 , 2008 . Jump up ^ `` Salamis official website '' . Archived from the original on February 22 , 2009 . Jump up ^ `` Salamina '' ( in Greek ) . Anatropes . Archived from the original on August 20 , 2010 . Jump up ^ `` Kallikratis law '' ( PDF ) . Greece Ministry of Interior . ( in Greek ) ^ Jump up to : `` Population & housing census 2001 ( incl . area and average elevation ) '' ( PDF ) ( in Greek ) . National Statistical Service of Greece . Jump up ^ Jochalas , Titos P. ( 1971 ) : Über die Einwanderung der Albaner in Griechenland : Eine zusammenfassene Betrachtung ( `` On the immigration of Albanians to Greece : A summary '' ) . München : Trofenik . Jump up ^ `` Settlements ( Dímos Salamínas , Municipality ) '' . citypopulation.de . Jump up ^ `` Name changes of settlements in Greece '' . Jump up ^ `` Εφημερίδες & Περιοδικά '' ( in Greek ) . Archived from the original on 30 April 2009 . This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . ( July 2012 ) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message ) External links ( edit ) Wikisource has the text of the 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica article Salamis ( Greece ) . Official website of Municipality of Salamina ( in English ) ( in Greek ) Official website of Municipality of Ampelakia ( in Greek ) Articles and topics related to Salamis Island Argo - Saronic Islands Major islands Salamina Aegina Hydra Poros Spetses Agistri Dokos Minor islands Psyttaleia Leros Salaminos Revythoussa Moni Aiginas Spetsopoula Romvi Plateia Agios Georgios Patroklos Fleves Agios Georgios Salaminos Ypsili Diaporion Ypsili Argolidos Agios Thomas Diaporion Agios Ioannis Diaporion Plateia Aiginis Laousses Islets Kyra Aiginis Trikeri Hydras Alexandros Hydras Stavronisi Hydras Velopoula Falkonera Psili Administrative division of the Attica Region Area 3,808 km ( 1,470 sq mi ) Population 3,827,624 ( as of 2011 ) Municipalities 66 ( since 2011 ) Capital Athens Regional unit of Central Athens Athens Dafni - Ymittos Filadelfeia - Chalkidona Galatsi Ilioupoli Kaisariani Vyronas Zografou Regional unit of North Athens Agia Paraskevi Chalandri Filothei - Psychiko Irakleio Kifissia Lykovrysi - Pefki Marousi Metamorfosi Nea Ionia Papagou - Cholargos Penteli Vrilissia Regional unit of West Athens Agia Varvara Agioi Anargyroi - Kamatero Aigaleo Chaidari Ilion Peristeri Petroupoli Regional unit of South Athens Agios Dimitrios Alimos Elliniko - Argyroupoli Glyfada Kallithea Moschato - Tavros Nea Smyrni Palaio Faliro Regional unit of Piraeus Keratsini - Drapetsona Korydallos Nikaia - Agios Ioannis Rentis Perama Piraeus Regional unit of East Attica Acharnes Dionysos Kropia Lavreotiki Marathon Markopoulo Oropos Paiania Pallini Rafina - Pikermi Saronikos Spata - Artemida Vari - Voula - Vouliagmeni Regional unit of West Attica Aspropyrgos Eleusis Fyli Mandra - Eidyllia Megara Regional unit of Islands Aegina Agistri Hydra Kythira Poros Salamis Spetses Troizinia - Methana Regional governor Rena Dourou ( since 2014 ) Decentralized Administration Attica Subdivisions of the municipality of Salamis Municipal unit of Ampelakia Ampelakia Selinia Municipal unit of Salamina ( city ) Aianteio Salamina ( city ) Aegean Sea General Countries Greece Turkey Other Aegean civilizations Aegean dispute Aegean Islands Aegean Islands Cyclades Amorgos Anafi Andros Antimilos Antiparos Delos Despotiko Donousa Folegandros Gyaros Ios Irakleia Kardiotissa Kea Keros Kimolos Koufonisia Kythnos Milos Mykonos Naxos Paros Polyaigos Rineia Santorini Schoinoussa Serifopoula Serifos Sifnos Sikinos Syros Therasia Tinos Vous Dodecanese Agathonisi Arkoi Armathia Alimia Astakida Astypalaia Çatalada Chamili Farmakonisi Gaidaros Gyali Halki Imia / Kardak Kalolimnos Kalymnos Kandelioussa Kara Ada Karpathos Kasos Kinaros Kos Küçük Tavşan Adası Leipsoi ( Lipsi ) Leros Levitha ( Lebynthos ) Nimos Nisyros Pacheia Patmos Platy Pserimos Rhodes Salih Ada Saria Symi Syrna Telendos Tilos Zaforas North Aegean Agios Efstratios Agios Minas Ammouliani Ayvalık Islands Büyük Ada Chios Chryse Cunda Foça Islands Fournoi Korseon Icaria Imbros Koukonesi Lemnos Lesbos Metalik Ada Nisiopi Oinousses Pasas Psara Samiopoula Samos Samothrace Tenedos Thasos Thymaina Uzunada Zourafa Saronic Aegina Agios Georgios Agistri Dokos Hydra Poros Psyttaleia Salamis Spetses Sporades Adelfoi Islets Agios Georgios Skopelou Alonnisos Argos Skiathou Dasia Erinia Gioura Grammeza Kyra Panagia Lekhoussa Peristera Piperi Psathoura Repi Sarakino Skandili Skantzoura Skiathos Skopelos Skyropoula Skyros Tsoungria Valaxa Cretan Afentis Christos Agia Varvara Agioi Apostoloi Agioi Pantes Agioi Theodoroi Agios Nikolaos Anavatis Arnaouti Aspros Volakas Avgo Crete Daskaleia Dia Diapori Dionysades Elasa Ftena Trachylia Glaronisi Gramvousa Grandes Kalydon ( Spinalonga ) Karavi Karga Katergo Kavallos Kefali Kolokythas Koursaroi Kyriamadi Lazaretta Leon Mavros Mavros Volakas Megatzedes Mochlos Nikolos Palaiosouda Peristeri Peristerovrachoi Petalida Petalouda Pontikaki Pontikonisi Praso ( Prasonisi ) Prosfora Pseira Sideros Souda Valenti Vryonisi Other Antikythera Euboea Kythira Makronisos GND : 4105212 - 2 Retrieved from `` https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Salamis_Island&oldid=801317315 '' Categories : Populated places in Islands ( regional unit ) Salamis Island Aegean islands Islands of Attica Landforms of Islands ( regional unit ) Municipalities of Attica Ports and harbours of Greece Athenian colonies Megarian colonies Islands of Greece Saronic Gulf Hidden categories : CS1 Greek - language sources ( el ) Articles with Greek - language external links Pages using deprecated image syntax Coordinates on Wikidata Articles containing Greek - language text All articles with unsourced statements Articles with unsourced statements from September 2007 Articles needing additional references from July 2012 All articles needing additional references Wikipedia articles with GND identifiers Talk Contents About Wikipedia Alemannisch Беларуская Беларуская ( тарашкевіца ) ‎ Български Brezhoneg Català Cebuano Čeština Cymraeg Deutsch Eesti Ελληνικά Español Esperanto Euskara فارسی Français Galego 한국어 Հայերեն Hrvatski Bahasa Indonesia Italiano עברית Latina Nederlands 日本 語 Norsk Norsk nynorsk Polski Português Română Русский Scots Shqip Slovenčina Српски / srpski Srpskohrvatski / српскохрватски Suomi Svenska Türkçe Українська اردو Tiếng Việt 中文 Edit links This page was last edited on 18 September 2017 , at 23 : 51 . Text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution - ShareAlike License ; additional terms may apply . By using this site , you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . Wikipedia ® is a registered trademark of the Wikimedia Foundation , Inc. , a non-profit organization . About Wikipedia 
where is salamis in ancient greece on a map
Salamis Σαλαμίνα View of Salamina Salamis Location within the region ( show ) Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Country Greece Administrative region Attica Regional unit Islands Government Mayor Ioannis Tsavaris ( Ind . ) Area Municipality 96.16 km ( 37.13 sq mi ) Population ( 2011 ) Municipality 39,283 Municipality density 410 / km ( 1,100 / sq mi ) Time zone EET ( UTC + 2 ) Summer ( DST ) EEST ( UTC + 3 ) Postal code 189 xx Area code ( s ) 21 Vehicle registration Y Website www.salamina.gr Salamis Σαλαμίνα View of Salamina Salamis Location within the region ( show ) Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Coordinates : 37 ° 56 ′ N 23 ° 30 ′ E ﻿ / ﻿ 37.933 ° N 23.500 ° E ﻿ / 37.933 ; 23.500 Country Greece Administrative region Attica Regional unit Islands Government Mayor Ioannis Tsavaris ( Ind . ) Area Municipality 96.16 km ( 37.13 sq mi ) Population ( 2011 ) Municipality 39,283 Municipality density 410 / km ( 1,100 / sq mi ) Time zone EET ( UTC + 2 ) Summer ( DST ) EEST ( UTC + 3 ) Postal code 189 xx Area code ( s ) 21 Vehicle registration Y Website www.salamina.gr Salamis ( / ˈsæləmɪs / ; Greek : Σαλαμίνα Salamína , Ancient and Katharevousa : Σαλαμίς Salamís ) , is the largest Greek island in the Saronic Gulf , about 1 nautical mile ( 2 km ) off - coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres ( 10 miles ) west of Athens . The chief city , Salamina , lies in the west - facing core of the crescent on Salamis Bay , which opens into the Saronic Gulf . On the Eastern side of the island is its main port , Paloukia , in size second in Greece only to Piraeus , the port of Athens . The traditional etymology of Salamis derives it from the eponymous nymph Salamis , the mother of Cychreus , the legendary first king of the island . A more modern theory considers `` Salamis '' to come from the root sal ' salt ' and - amis ' middle ' ; thus Salamis would be the place amid salt water . Some scholars connect it to the Semitic root Š - L-M ' health , safety , peace ' , because of the well - sheltered harbor . From at least the 13th century until the 19th century , the town , the island , and the bay of Salamis were called Koulouri ( Κουλούρι ) , presumably because it was round like the bread called ' koulouri ' . The ancient name was revived in the 19th century . The name Koulouri is still used informally for the town . Salamis is mentioned in Homer 's writings . Salamis was probably first colonised by Aegina and later occupied by Megara , but became an Athenian possession in the time of Solon or Peisistratos , following the war between Athens and Megara around 600 BC . According to Strabo , the ancient capital was at the south of the island ; in classical times it was to the east , on the Kamatero Peninsula overlooking the Strait of Salamis ; in modern times it is on the west . According to Homer 's Iliad , Salamis took part in the Trojan War with twelve ships under the leadership of Ajax ( Aias ) . Salamis island is known for the Battle of Salamis , the decisive naval victory of the allied Greek fleet , led by Themistocles , over the Persian Empire in 480 BC . It is said to be the birthplace of Ajax and Euripides , the latter 's birth being popularly placed on the day of the battle . In modern times , it is home to Salamis Naval Base , headquarters for the Hellenic Navy . The oldest known counting board was discovered on Salamis Island in 1899 . It is thought to have been used by the Babylonians in about 300 BC and is more of a gaming board rather than a calculating device . It is marble , about 150 cm × 75 cm × 4.5 cm ( 59 in × 30 in × 2 in ) , and has carved Greek symbols and parallel grooves . During the German invasion of Greece in World War II , the harbor was bombed by the Luftwaffe on April 23 , 1941 , sinking the Greek battleships Kilkis and Lemnos . In the 1960s and 1970s , during the military junta period , changes in land legislation allowed the subdivision of land plots . This opened the island to massive unplanned and unregulated urban and suburban development , including many weekend homes , especially along the northern and eastern coasts . The lack of corresponding investment in infrastructure , combined with heavy industry , has led to sea and beach pollution on this side of the island . There are , however , ongoing initiatives such as help from the European Union 's Cohesion Fund toward improving sewerage by 2008 . An oil spill occurred off the coast of Salamis Island in September 2017 . Salamis has an area of 36 square miles ( 93 km ) ; its highest point is Mavrovouni at 1,325 feet ( 404 metres ) . A significant part of Salamis Island is rocky and mountainous . On the southern part of the island a pine forest is located , which is unusual for western Attica . Unfortunately , this forest is often a target for fires . While the inland inhabitants are mainly employed within the agricultural sector , the majority of Salamis ' inhabitants work in maritime occupations ( fishing , ferries , and the island 's shipyards ) or commute to work in Athens . The maritime industry is focused on the north - east coast of the island at the port of Paloukia ( Παλούκια ) , where ferries to mainland Greece are based , and in the dockyards of Ampelakia and the north side of the Kynosoura peninsula . Salamis Island is very popular for holiday and weekend visits from the Athens and Piraeus area ; its population rises to 300,000 in peak season of which c. 31,000 are permanent inhabitants . This supports a strong service industry sector , with many cafes , bars , ouzeries , tavernas and consumer goods shops throughout the island . On the south of the island , away from the port , there are a number of less developed areas with good swimming beaches including those of Aianteio , Maroudi , Perani , Peristeria , Kolones , Saterli , Selenia and Kanakia . Salamis Island belongs to the Islands regional unit of the Attica region . Since the 2011 local government reform the island is administered as one municipality . Before , the island was divided into two municipalities , that became municipal units at the reform : Salamina Ampelakia In the municipal unit of Salamina , which has a land area of 80.992 square kilometres ( 31.271 sq mi ) and a 2011 census population of 31,776 , the chief population centre is the city of Salamina ( also called Salamis , Salamis City or Koulouris , pop . 25,888 in 2011 ) , consisting of the districts Alonia , Agios Minas , Agios Dimitrios , Agios Nikolaos , Boskos , Nea Salamina , Tsami and Vourkari . Its second - largest town is Aiánteio ( pop . 5,888 ) . In the municipal unit of Ampelakia , which has a land area of 15.169 square kilometres ( 5.857 sq mi ) and a population of 7,507 , the largest towns are Ampelakia ( pop. 4,998 ) and Selinia ( 2,509 ) . As of the mid-20th century , the majority of the inhabitants were Arvanite ; a thing that changed during the past 20 years due to settlement of a lot of Athenians on the island to the degree that nowadays Arvanites are a fraction of the population , living mainly in Salamina town , Ampelakia and Moulki ( Aianteion ) . The island is known in Arvanitika as Κȣλλȣρι ( `` Koullouri '' ) . Year Salamina ( town ) Salamina ( municipal unit ) Salamis ( island ) 1981 20,807 25,215 30,402 1991 22,567 27,582 34,342 25,730 30,962 38,022 2011 25,888 31,776 39,283 Year Salamina ( town ) Salamina ( municipal unit ) Salamis ( island ) 1981 20,807 25,215 30,402 1991 22,567 27,582 34,342 25,730 30,962 38,022 2011 25,888 31,776 39,283 Paloukia ( Greek : Παλούκια , population 1,695 ) is located in the northeast of the island . Many ferryboats , fishing vessels and port police craft dock in this harbor . Paloukia is the base for the port police department of Salamina . Most visitors who come to Salamina first arrive at Paloukia via ferryboats that run between Paloukia and Perama or Piraeus . The area is adjacent to the Salamis Naval Base ( in Greek Nafstathmos ) , which is a major base of the Hellenic Navy . Aianteio ( Greek : Αιάντειο , population 4,860 as of March 16 , 2011 ) is a large village in the southwestern part of Salamis Island and is named after Ajax , `` King of the Salamis '' , from Homer 's Iliad . The village was known as Moulki ( Μούλκι ) until 1915 . In the region , there are churches from the 11th and 12th centuries such as Saint John and Saint Dimitrios . Interesting places to visit are : the oldest church in the island , Saint John the `` Kalyvitis '' , which dates back to the 10th century and has remarkable hagiographies the monastery of Saint Nicolas which dates back to the 18th century and is situated in a forest . the oldest church in the island , Saint John the `` Kalyvitis '' , which dates back to the 10th century and has remarkable hagiographies the monastery of Saint Nicolas which dates back to the 18th century and is situated in a forest . Batsi ( Greek : Μπατσί ) is a little community ( population 212 ) in the north of Salamis , in the municipality of Salamis , located at the foot of a piney mountain , about 6 to 8 km ( 4 to 5 mi ) east of Megara . In the mountain , there is a cave of archeological interest that has not been investigated yet . In the winter there are few tourists ; it is more popular with vacationers from Athens during the summer months . Kaki Vigla ( Greek : Κακή Βίγλα ) is a small community ( population 236 ) located at the south of Salamis Island , near Aianteio . The beaches of Kaki Vigla are relatively clean and the area has pine and olive trees near the shore . A new village , founded in 1960 . Peristeria ( Greek : Περιστέρια , population 456 ) is a small village in the southeast of the island 45 km ( 28 mi ) from Salamis City . It took its name from the bird of peace , the dove ( Greek : περιστέρι ) , because it is a calm , peaceful and isolated place , away from the cars and from noise . Another interpretation says that its name may be derived from the doves which were living and had nests in the area . The area has a marina , which has yachts and fishing boats . The beaches of Peristeria are the cleanest of Salamis . The village is near the Cave of Euripides , associated with the famous ancient playwright . Psili Ammos ( Greek : Ψιλή Άμμος , population 271 ) , which means Fine Sand is so named because it is covered with sand . The area is located at the northwest of the island opposite of Elefsina . In the area there is one of the oldest landmarks , the chantry of Saint Grigorios ( Saint Gregory ) . Steno ( Greek : Στενό , population 985 ) , which means Narrow in Greek , is a small community in the northwest of Salamis Island . The area is separated from Fanaromeni Monastery by a hill with shrubs and pine trees . The area is adjacent to the bay of Agios Georgios . Steno has wide and well - planned roads . Vasilika ( Greek : Βασιλικά , population 4,264 ) which means Royal is a big village located in the northwest of the island . Vasilika is the third largest area in Salamis by population after Salamis City and Aianteio . Vasilika has a sandy large beach apt for swimming . Xeno ( Greek : Ξένο `` foreign '' , population 786 ) is located in the northwest corner of the island . The area was so named because the first residents were not from Salamis but from nearby Piraeus . Kynosoura ( Greek : Κυνόσουρα ) ( Greek : κυνός - ουρά `` dog 's tail '' ) is a small peninsula located in the east of the island . The name probably comes from the shape of the peninsula , long and thin and pointed at the end . In the south are a few houses ( population 69 ) . In the north are the remains of an ancient tumulus thought to be the burial site of Greek warriors in the Battle of Salamis . Nearby is a dockyard , which constructs and fixes ships including oil tankers and containers . Selinia ( Greek : Σελήνια , population 2.523 ) is a resort located a few kilometers southeast of Salamis city . Selinia once was the weekend resort of many Athenians due to its proximity to Piraeus and Athens . Selinia also features restaurants and taverns Salamis island has eleven primary schools ( ten public and one private ) , four high schools , and four lycees . The majority of students are proficient in school , and the pupils ( above 13 years ) usually have acquired diplomas and certificates in English , in French , or in German such as ECCE , FCE , CPE , and ECPE . Many students from Salamis island also possess many computer skills . Many students also study abroad in countries such as the United States , the United Kingdom , Germany , and France . In the 1960s , 1970s , and 1980s , the pupils went to Italy for studies since it was close to Greece . In Salamis Bay , a visitor can find many bars , cafeterias , beaches , and shops . The main cafeterias and bars are based in Agios Nikolaos , which is located in the western suburbs of Salamis city . The district is named for the church . Taverns and inns , which are located throughout the island , feature local food and dishes . The shops -- which sell appliances , computers , clothing , souvenirs , and vehicles -- are opened from 8 : 00 a.m. to 2 : 00 p.m. and from 5 : 30 p.m. to 9 : 00 p.m. on weekdays ; from 9 : 00 a.m. to 1 : 30 p.m. and 6 : 00 p.m to 8 : 30 p.m. on Saturdays . Salamis island has four football teams : Aias ( Ajax ) Salaminas , Ampelakiakos F.C. , A.E. Salaminas and Salaminomachoi . Salamina - Press 30 Imeres tis Salaminas ( 30 Days of Salamina ) Anatropes ( Tippings ) Apopsi ( Opinion ) Athlitikoi Palmoi ( Athletic Vibrations ) I Enotita tis Salaminas ( The Unity of Salamis ) I Nea Salamina ( The New Salamis ) I Foni tis Salaminas ( The Voice of Salamis ) Neo Ithos tis Salaminas ( New Morale of Salamis ) Palmos tis Salaminas ( Pulse of Salamis ) Politis me dikaioma ( Citizen With Rights ) Salaminiaki Protoporia ( Salaminian Vanguard ) Sports Week Salamina Salamina - Press 30 Imeres tis Salaminas ( 30 Days of Salamina ) Anatropes ( Tippings ) Apopsi ( Opinion ) Athlitikoi Palmoi ( Athletic Vibrations ) I Enotita tis Salaminas ( The Unity of Salamis ) I Nea Salamina ( The New Salamis ) I Foni tis Salaminas ( The Voice of Salamis ) Neo Ithos tis Salaminas ( New Morale of Salamis ) Palmos tis Salaminas ( Pulse of Salamis ) Politis me dikaioma ( Citizen With Rights ) Salaminiaki Protoporia ( Salaminian Vanguard ) Sports Week Salamina Salamina - Press 30 Imeres tis Salaminas ( 30 Days of Salamina ) Anatropes ( Tippings ) Apopsi ( Opinion ) Athlitikoi Palmoi ( Athletic Vibrations ) I Enotita tis Salaminas ( The Unity of Salamis ) I Nea Salamina ( The New Salamis ) Salamina - Press 30 Imeres tis Salaminas ( 30 Days of Salamina ) Anatropes ( Tippings ) Apopsi ( Opinion ) Athlitikoi Palmoi ( Athletic Vibrations ) I Enotita tis Salaminas ( The Unity of Salamis ) I Nea Salamina ( The New Salamis ) I Foni tis Salaminas ( The Voice of Salamis ) Neo Ithos tis Salaminas ( New Morale of Salamis ) Palmos tis Salaminas ( Pulse of Salamis ) Politis me dikaioma ( Citizen With Rights ) Salaminiaki Protoporia ( Salaminian Vanguard ) Sports Week Salamina I Foni tis Salaminas ( The Voice of Salamis ) Neo Ithos tis Salaminas ( New Morale of Salamis ) Palmos tis Salaminas ( Pulse of Salamis ) Politis me dikaioma ( Citizen With Rights ) Salaminiaki Protoporia ( Salaminian Vanguard ) Sports Week Salamina Landmark Year of construction Location Faneromeni Monastery 15th century Faneromeni Chantry of Saint George around 1250 Agios Georgios Mycenaean city of Salamis 13th century BC Kanakia Ancient city and port of Salamis 5th -- 1st centuries BC Ampelakia Fighters tomb of the naval Battle of Salamis 5th century BC Ampelakia , Kynosoura Circular funerary 4th century BC Kolones Euripideio Theatre in suburbs of Salamis City ( in hill Patris ) Church of Saint Dimitrios 1806 center of Salamis City ( in hononymous district ) The Cave of Euripides 450 BC at south Salamis Island ( near Peristeria ) The Cottage of Angelos Sikelianos 1935 Faneromeni The Stone Lighthouse 1901 Peristeria The bust of Georgios Karaiskakis 1982 center of Salamis City ( in Vourkari district ) The Windmills 19th century in suburbs of Salamis City ( in a hill ) Chantry of Prophet Elias early of 20th century Salamis City ( in a stone hill ) Chantry of Saint Grygorios 12th century Psili Ammos The Stony small Theater Selinia The City Hall of Salamis 2000 Salamis City The Monastery of Saint Nicolaos 17th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Church of Saint John the Kalyvitis 11th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Folklore Museum 2000 lodging at Salamis City Hall Archaeological museum of Salamis 2013 Salamis City The Mansion of Galeos Family 19th century at Salamis center ( at Agios Minas district ) The Church of Saint Minas 1869 at Salamis City ( at Agios Minas district ) Landmark Year of construction Location Faneromeni Monastery 15th century Faneromeni Chantry of Saint George around 1250 Agios Georgios Mycenaean city of Salamis 13th century BC Kanakia Ancient city and port of Salamis 5th -- 1st centuries BC Ampelakia Fighters tomb of the naval Battle of Salamis 5th century BC Ampelakia , Kynosoura Circular funerary 4th century BC Kolones Euripideio Theatre in suburbs of Salamis City ( in hill Patris ) Church of Saint Dimitrios 1806 center of Salamis City ( in hononymous district ) The Cave of Euripides 450 BC at south Salamis Island ( near Peristeria ) The Cottage of Angelos Sikelianos 1935 Faneromeni The Stone Lighthouse 1901 Peristeria The bust of Georgios Karaiskakis 1982 center of Salamis City ( in Vourkari district ) The Windmills 19th century in suburbs of Salamis City ( in a hill ) Chantry of Prophet Elias early of 20th century Salamis City ( in a stone hill ) Chantry of Saint Grygorios 12th century Psili Ammos The Stony small Theater Selinia The City Hall of Salamis 2000 Salamis City The Monastery of Saint Nicolaos 17th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Church of Saint John the Kalyvitis 11th century at south Salamis Island ( near Kanakia ) The Folklore Museum 2000 lodging at Salamis City Hall Archaeological museum of Salamis 2013 Salamis City The Mansion of Galeos Family 19th century at Salamis center ( at Agios Minas district ) The Church of Saint Minas 1869 at Salamis City ( at Agios Minas district ) Ajax the Great , the legendary king of Salamis island , son of Telamon and half - brother of Teucer Cychreus , the first king of Salamis Island Euripides , tragedian ( 480 BC -- 406 BC ) Moerocles , orator ( 4th century BC ) Telamon , the king of Salamis Island , father of Ajax the Great and Teucer Teucer , the half - brother of Ajax the Great , son of Telamon , warrior of Trojan War , and founder of the city - state of Salamis , Cyprus . Ajax the Great , the legendary king of Salamis island , son of Telamon and half - brother of Teucer Cychreus , the first king of Salamis Island Euripides , tragedian ( 480 BC -- 406 BC ) Moerocles , orator ( 4th century BC ) Telamon , the king of Salamis Island , father of Ajax the Great and Teucer Teucer , the half - brother of Ajax the Great , son of Telamon , warrior of Trojan War , and founder of the city - state of Salamis , Cyprus . Georgios Karaiskakis ( c. 1780 -- 1827 ) , Greek War of Independence hero , is buried on Salamis . Polychronis Lempesis ( 1848 -- 1913 ) , painter Memos Mpegnis ( 1974 - ) , actor Dimitrios Mpogris ( 1890 -- 1964 ) , playwright Giorgos Papasideris ( 1902 -- 1977 ) , country singer , composer and lyricist Angelos Sikelianos ( 1884 -- 1951 ) , poet and playwright , whose cottage was near the Monastery of Faneromeni . Georgios Karaiskakis ( c. 1780 -- 1827 ) , Greek War of Independence hero , is buried on Salamis . Polychronis Lempesis ( 1848 -- 1913 ) , painter Memos Mpegnis ( 1974 - ) , actor Dimitrios Mpogris ( 1890 -- 1964 ) , playwright Giorgos Papasideris ( 1902 -- 1977 ) , country singer , composer and lyricist Angelos Sikelianos ( 1884 -- 1951 ) , poet and playwright , whose cottage was near the Monastery of Faneromeni . Salamis Island is twinned with Famagusta , Cyprus ( 1998 ) Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla Gulf The historic monastery of Faneromeni Nicolas Lemonia monastery 17th century AD , on the road between the villages Aianteio and Kanakia Kanakia beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla beach Kaki Vigla Gulf Kaki Vigla Gulf The historic monastery of Faneromeni The historic monastery of Faneromeni Nicolas Lemonia monastery 17th century AD , on the road between the villages Aianteio and Kanakia Nicolas Lemonia monastery 17th century AD , on the road between the villages Aianteio and Kanakia Kanakia beach
in the Saronic Gulf, about 1 nautical mile (2 km) off-coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Athens about 1 nautical mile (2 km) off-coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Athens 1 nautical mile (2 km) off-coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Athens in the Saronic Gulf, about 1 nautical mile (2 km) off-coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Athens about 1 nautical mile (2 km) off-coast from Piraeus and about 16 kilometres (10 miles) west of Athens