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A large village built on the centre of the island with small picturesque streets and hills with windmills that add to the village's beauty. The village is built on a plain, and for many years was the island's commercial centre, the market-place for all its local produce. The village of Emporio first appears in history in the Venetian era, and was one of the island's five medieval fortified towns. Today it is one of the island's biggest villages, with the largest permanent population several shops, a medical centre, a newsagent's and a school.

The village of Emporio Today, the only reminders of that period are the ruined Goulas (fortified manor house) at the entrance to the village and the traces of the castle at the heart of the traditional settlement. Emporio also had a fortified castle during the medieval years, vestiges of which are still visible. Here are two castles both built by the Venetians, Casteli and north of the village a strong, square building named Goulas, in which the village people protected themselves from the pirates.

Outside the village, as you return towards Fira, you will see on your right the church of St Nicholas Marmarites, built of marble from the ruins of the ancient temple of the goddess Vassilia, which originally occupied this site. You should have a look at the church of Palia Panagia, the oldest in the village, and famous for the ornately carved wooden dome on its bell-tower (1537AD).