Evvia

Evvia, also spelled Evia in English, refers to the Greek island of Euboea, located in the Aegean Sea off the eastern coast of Central Greece. It is the second-largest Greek island by area, separated from the mainland by the Euripus Strait.

The island covers about 3,670 square kilometers and features a diverse landscape of rugged mountains, dense forests, rivers, and long coastlines, with Dirfi as its highest peak (1,743 meters). The capital and largest town is Chalkida, which straddles the Euripus Strait and hosts a historic bridge.

Historically, Evvia has ancient roots with settlements such as Eretria and Chalkida playing prominent roles in classical Greece. Over the centuries it was ruled by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans before becoming part of the modern Greek state in the 19th century.

The economy is mixed: agriculture (olives, citrus, grapes), fishing, and tourism. Notable tourist draws include the thermal baths at Edipsos (Loutra Edipsou), beaches along the northern and southern coasts, and opportunities for hiking in the interior mountains.

Demographically, the island is primarily Greek-speaking, with communities distributed among coastal towns and inland villages. Transportation links connect Evvia to the mainland via the Chalkida Bridge and regular ferries; there is no major international airport on the island, with Athens International Airport serving as the primary access hub.

Notable towns and sites include Eretria, Edipsos, Karystos, and the city of Chalkida. Evvia remains a key region in Central Greece for culture, history, and outdoor activities.