The main attraction of this mountainous island, separated from Andros only by a narrow channel, are not the beaches and the hidden coves but one of the most well known and visited sanctuaries in the whole of Greece, which has made of Tinos a sort of “Lourdes” in the Aegean Sea. A pilgrimage destination that welcomes tourists all year round, but it is particularly busy during the occasions of the 15th of August for the Ascension and the 25th of May for the Annunciation Day when worshippers gather in front of an icon of the Virgin Mary believed to be miraculous. Behind the harbour, a web of narrow tortuous streets, especially designed that way as a defence from the strong Meltemi winds that batter the Cyclades, are full of little shops selling religious souvenirs. From the sea a wide road leads up to the Panagia Evangelistria church sitting at the top of grand steps. The famous sanctuary was built in 1830 in the place where, according to tradition, the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was found. It is popular belief the icon was actually painted by the Apostle Luke. Inside, it is impressive the extent of the offers from the worshippers: jewels and other precious items surround the sacred image to thank the Madonna for the grace received.