Euboea

Euboea, also known as Evia, is the second-largest Greek island, situated along the eastern coast of Central Greece. It lies parallel to the mainland and is separated from it by the Euripus Strait near Chalkida, the island’s capital. The island is long and narrow, extending north to south, with a rugged interior and the high Dirfi massif, whose summit reaches about 1,743 meters.

Key towns include Chalkida on the strait’s western side, Eretria to the northwest, Karystos in the south, and the thermal spa town of Edipsos. The coastline features numerous beaches and harbors, and the interior includes forests and mountainous terrain. The Euripus Strait is known for its rapid tidal currents and traditionally difficult navigation between the island and the mainland.

In antiquity, the island housed the city-states of Eretria and Chalkis and played a significant role in Aegean trade and politics, participating in major Greek alliances. It later came under Roman and Byzantine rule, and subsequently Ottoman and then modern Greek administration.

Economy is based on agriculture, including olives, grapes, and citrus, as well as fishing and tourism. Spa towns such as Edipsos attract visitors for thermal waters. The island is connected to the mainland by a road bridge across the Euripus Strait and by regular ferry services to both the northern and southern shores, making it relatively accessible for travelers and locals alike.