Avissalos
Serifos Island, Milos, South Aegean, Greece
Αβυσσαλός, Σέριφος, Κυκλάδες, Ελλάδα
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Avissalos is a small village on the west coast of Serifos Island, part of the Cyclades in Greece, about 170 km southeast of Piraeus.
It is known for minerals like quartz (including prase and amethyst) and andradite, with potential copper-related minerals in slag.
The geological setting is likely igneous or metamorphic, given the skarn zone and quartz occurrences.
Mining history includes ancient copper processing, with ruins still visible, though details on start date and scale are limited.
Local culture ties to Venetian history, with the name suggesting past slavery for mining, and the area offers stunning sunsets.
The Mediterranean climate likely influences mineral formation, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Geographic Location
Avissalos sits on the west coast of Serifos Island, nestled in the Cyclades, a picturesque group of islands in the Aegean Sea, Greece. It's roughly 170 km southeast of Piraeus, the port of Athens, making it accessible by ferry. Part of the Milos regional unit, Serifos is south of Kythnos and northwest of Sifnos, offering a serene escape with nearby famous spots like the island's capital, Chora, known for its traditional Cycladic architecture.
Minerals Produced
Avissalos is a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts, boasting quartz varieties like prase (green quartz) and amethyst, which gleam in crystal clefts. Andradite, a type of garnet, also graces the area, alongside potential copper minerals found in slag heaps. These uncommon finds, especially the vibrant prase, make it a must-visit for collectors seeking unique specimens.
Geological Structure
The area's geology seems to lean toward igneous or metamorphic rocks, with mentions of a skarn zone and quartz in clefts suggesting intense heat and pressure from past volcanic activity. Minerals here likely formed through hydrothermal processes, where hot fluids interacted with the rock, creating these stunning crystals in the island's rugged terrain.
Mining History
Echoes of mining past linger in Avissalos, with ancient copper processing facilities and ruins like residencies and loading bridges still visible in the "Skouries" area. While exact start dates and scales are unclear, the presence of slag suggests significant activity, possibly tied to Venetian-era exploitation, though it's uncertain if mining continues today.
Local Culture and Characteristics
Avissalos's name, derived from the Venetian word "vassale" (slave), hints at a history of forced labor for mining during Hermolaus Minotto's rule. Today, it's a quiet village with a beach perfect for fishing and mesmerizing sunsets, reflecting a blend of history and natural beauty that captivates visitors.
Climate and Ecology
With a Mediterranean climate, Avissalos enjoys hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, likely influencing mineral formation through seasonal water movements. The ecology, with its arid landscapes and sparse vegetation, complements the rugged terrain, where mineral-rich veins thrive under the sun.