Samothrace

Samothrace, also called Samothraki in Greek, is an island in the northern Aegean Sea belonging to Greece. It is part of the East Macedonia and Thrace region, within the Evros regional unit, and constitutes the municipality of Samothraki. The island lies northeast of Thasos and near the Thracian coast, separated from the mainland by the Aegean; it is mountainous and heavily forested with a rugged coastline.

The interior is dominated by Mount Saos, the highest peak, and features gorges, waterfalls, and diverse flora. The Fonias waterfall is a well-known natural attraction.

Human settlement on Samothrace dates back to the Neolithic era. In antiquity, it hosted the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, a major panhellenic religious center where rites and the Mysteries were performed; ruins of temple complexes are among the island's archaeological remains. The Nike of Samothrace, a celebrated Hellenistic sculpture depicting Nike, was discovered on the island in the 19th century and is now housed in the Louvre.

In the modern era, Samothrace has been part of Greece since the early 20th century. Today it is a quiet destination for hikers, nature lovers, and visitors to the ancient sanctuary ruins. Access is via ferries from the mainland, notably from Alexandroupoli.