Samothrace is a Greek island in the northern Aegean Sea. It is where the famous headless statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, was discovered. This statue, which has become known as "Winged Victory," was discovered in 1863 by Charles Champoiseau, the French consul to Turkey, and is now on display in the Louvre in Paris, France.

 

The island of Samothrace is heavily forested. There are quickly moving streams and waterfalls.

 

Mount Fengari is the highest mountain on Samothrace and the highest mountain on the islands of the Aegean. According to Homer's Iliad, Poseidon sat on top of the 5,285 foot (1,611 meter) peak to get a good view of the Trojan War.

 

Popular outdoor activities on Samothrace include hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, canoeing, kayaking and scuba diving.

 

Travelers with an interest in the history of Greece can visit many archeological sites in the port city of Paleopolis, including the ruins of the 5th century BC complex of temples where Winged Victory was discovered. This ancient religious complex, where religious mysteries were performed, was known as the Sanctuary of the Great Gods.

 

Christian legend says that the Apostle Paul landed in Paleopolis when he arrived on Samothrace. A church, made from parts of old buildings, was constructed there in his honor.

 

Paleopolis has an archeological museum.

 

Those with a fascination for architecture works can visit Samothrace's many Byzantine and post-Byzantine chapels and monasteries.

 

Samothrace has hot springs, and the island's spas are popular with tourists.