The most picturesque island complex of Greece, which can be seen on the map as an extension of Attica and Euboea. Many islands and rock islets comprise the cycladic group, however 33 of these are inhabited. All of the Cyclades, form an imaginary circle around Delos. Many different conquerors, rulers, kings and pirates had the islands under their control. The history begins with the Minoans of Crete, then goes further with the Ionians, the Dorians up to the Romans and later in the Byzantine period with the Goths, the Slavs and the Normands. For many years, the islands were acting as a stronghold for the pirates. The islands adopted their present-day identity under the 300 year long occupation of the Venetians. Among the surviving works of the Venetians many castles and towers are listed. The Cyclades are also called "the white islands" because their houses are built in the characteristic cycladic style and the white walls create a strong contrast with the deep blue colour of the Sea. The dry cool climate in the summer, the long lasting sunshine and the nice beaches promise you unforgettable vacations. The islands that constitute the Cyclades are the following: Kea, Paros, Antiparos, Sifnos, Kimolos, Andros, Tenos, Mykonos, Kythnos, Naxos, Ios, Melos, Delos, Syros, Amorgos, Sikinos, Folegandros, Astipalaia, Santorini, Anafi. Traveling to the cyclades is easy thanks to the frequent Ferry connections from Piraeus,Rafina and Laurion. Airport in Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Melos, Santorini, Syros. This wonderful island microcosm is part of our cultural legacy and one of the most important attractions for tourists from the entire world.