Tripodes also known as Vivlos is one of the largest and most picturesque villages in southwestern Naxos with its trademark three windmills which stand on the hill and are visible from the road that leads to the village. It is situated on the road to the south-west beaches of the island, about 8km from Chora (Naxos town) and very near the famous beach of Plaka.
Its paved streets are very narrow and are lined with whitewashed houses of authentic Cycladic architecture. Despite its double name, all village signs refer to the village only as Vivlos. The village has more than 800 permanent residents and is one of Naxos’s most vibrant villages.
To the west are the remains of the tower of Ai Giorgis (Agios Georgios – St. George), which is built on a precipice. The ruins of Plaka Tower and the chapel of Agios Mattheos built on the ruins of an ancient temple (a common Christian practice) have led to speculation that at one time the settlement was originally built on the seaside area of Plaka.
The list of sights to visit in and around the village include the church of Panagia Tripodiotissa (the village’s patron saint), a number of traditional windmills which are in need of repair, the Plaka Tower known locally as Paleopyrgos (Greek – Old tower) or also known as Ariadne’s Tower at the entrance to the village, and finally the Folklore Museum which is housed in a restored olive mill.
Nearby one can admire the wonderful Temple of Theotokou and its beautiful and very valuable hand-drawn icons. The village is known for its numerous small churches (about 40 of them) strewn over the beautiful surrounding countryside, its historical background, its archaeological monuments and the friendliness and warm hospitality of its inhabitants.
Tripodes (Vivlos) has prospered thanks to the plain of Plaka which provides agricultural products of good quality. Among these are the nationally sought after Naxos potatoes, fruit, vegetables and grains. Vines are also cultivated which produce some very good wine.
Several kafeneia (traditional Greek cafés) and traditional tavernas are found around the village square with large eucalyptus trees offering shade and cool rustling in the breeze. A joyous celebration for Panagia (Virgin Mary) is held on August 23, and the festivities attract people from all over the island.
