Prince Albert II of Monaco toured the Greek island of Naxos for three days, taking in the mountain region's native grape varieties and local hospitality. The visit focused on the area's food production, gastronomy and cultural heritage, with the prince exploring several traditional settlements in the Cyclades.
His stay ran from Monday to midday Wednesday and covered a wide range of sites. The itinerary included stops in Koronos, Komiaki, Myrisis, the Kambones Estate, Chalki, and the ancient Temple of Demeter in Sangri. Prince Albert showed particular interest in the old ungrafted vines and native grape varieties still cultivated in the region.
Reception in Koronos
During his stop in Koronos, Prince Albert was accompanied by Ioannis Margaritis, Naxos' prefect, and sampled local dishes while meeting residents.
Margaritis, who is also Deputy Regional Governor of the South Aegean, announced the visit on social media, saying it was a particular honour to welcome His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco to Naxos.
Margaritis said that during his time on the island, Prince Albert had the chance to experience different sides of Naxos, showing genuine and specific interest in its history, natural environment, local production, gastronomy and cultural heritage.
Background
Prince Albert II has served as the reigning monarch of Monaco since 2005 and is known internationally for his environmental advocacy through the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, an archipelago in the Aegean Sea known for its ancient ruins, mountain villages and wine production.
Margaritis closed his post by saying the visit had been a beautiful opportunity to present Naxos as a place with a long history and strong identity, along with the people who continue to shape it and keep it alive. He said the prince's presence was a special honour for the island and thanked him for the sincere interest and appreciation he showed for the place and its people.
