Lesbos

LESBOS, Unattributed Koinon mint. Circa 510-480 BC

Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, RA, OM - Sappho and Alcaeus - Walters 37159

Ρωμαικό υδραγωγείο Μόριας 4

Denaro of Francesco II Gattilusio

Metileme by Giacomo Franco

Mitylene 1905

Lesbos (Greek: Λέσβος, Lésvos), also referred to as Mytilene after its capital, is a Greek island located in the northeastern Aegean Sea. It has an area of approximately 1,633 square kilometers (630 square miles), making it the third-largest island in Greece and the eighth-largest in the Mediterranean Sea. The island is part of the Lesbos Prefecture, which includes several smaller islands. Lesbos is situated close to the coast of Turkey, from which it is separated by the narrow Mytilini Strait.

History

Lesbos has a rich history that dates back to the prehistoric period. The island was an important cultural and trade center in the ancient world. It is known for its significant contributions to Greek literature and philosophy, particularly through figures such as the poet Sappho, who was renowned for her lyric poetry, and the philosopher Theophrastus, a pupil of Aristotle and a native of Lesbos. The island's strategic location and natural resources made it a focal point of conflict and cooperation among various powers throughout history, including the Persian Empire, the Delian League, and the Ottoman Empire.

Geography

Lesbos is characterized by its diverse landscapes, which include mountainous regions, lush forests, and volcanic formations. The island's highest peak is Mount Lepetymnos, which reaches an elevation of 968 meters (3,176 feet). Lesbos is also known for its hot springs and the Petrified Forest of Lesbos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features fossilized remains of trees from approximately 20 million years ago.

Economy

The economy of Lesbos is based on agriculture, tourism, and fishing. The island is renowned for its production of olive oil, ouzo (a Greek anise-flavored liqueur), and sardines. Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with visitors attracted to the island's natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural festivals.

Culture

Lesbos has a vibrant cultural scene that reflects its rich historical legacy. The island is famous for its music, traditional dances, and local cuisine. Lesbos has also been a center for literature and the arts, with numerous writers and artists drawing inspiration from its landscapes and cultural heritage. The island's association with Sappho has made it a symbol of female homosexuality and a place of pilgrimage for the LGBT community.

Modern Issues

In recent years, Lesbos has been at the forefront of the European migrant crisis, with thousands of migrants and refugees arriving on its shores. The island has faced significant challenges in managing this influx, which has strained local resources and affected tourism.

See Also

• Aegean Islands
• Greek mythology
• History of Greece