MOLIVOS

Explore Molivos

Among the few Ottoman era (Turkish) hamams that have survived, the hamam of Molivos stands out for its large size and beautiful decoration. It is found in the center of the village, near the charchsi cami or Grand Mosque (curently being used as the Town Center). It is approached by a small flight of stairs leading up from Castle Street (Odos Kastro, the upper street of the agora or marketplace). It was in use until the 1960s.

I sit in solitude in the deserted castle of the Gateluzzi at Molyvos (Mithimna), with its half-ruined corbels.
Below, climbing up the rocks, are the houses of the islanders of Molivos (Mithymna).
The crows fly above me, cawing. When foreign travelers do not go up to the castle, it is they who reign up here.

ILIAS VENEZIS

The Fortress of Molivos (Mithymna) was built in the north part of Lesbos during the Byzantine period. The Fort was extensively repaired and enlarged by the Genoese. The Turks, who conquered the island, sought to preserve it in good condition because of its strategic importance.

Near Molyvos in the north of Lesbos Island are the long pebble beach and the hot springs of Eftalou. The village is situated 1 kilometer east of larger Molyvos and it is attracting a bit more tourist over the last couple of years after several hotels were built here. In between Eftalou and Molyvos ride busses. The springs are known for their healing power and they are recommended for all kinds of illnesses like rheumatism, arthritis and skin diseases. You can relax on the beaches in one of the bays (some of them for naturists), and swim in the sea. Along the shore the hot mineral water seeps through the rocks and mixes with the sea water in warm pools. The water here can get very hot. The beach and its surroundings are truly beautiful. There are not many facilities on the pebble beach besides one restaurant. Eftalou has a beautiful old bath house that is impressive and very hot. In the building next to it you can take a thermal bath (not free).