Location: Naxos Town

The Portara—also known as the “Great Door”—is a monumental marble gateway and one of Naxos’ most iconic landmarks. It stands on the small islet of Palatia, just next to the port. In ancient times, the islet was connected to the northern edge of the harbor by a natural strip of land, now replaced by a modern causeway. According to legend, this is where Ariadne, daughter of the Minoan king, was deserted by Theseus after he defeated the Minotaur in Crete.