In ancient times, Samos was a centre for trade and knowledge, a unique island and a cosmopolitan city of its day. The island, which is a bit over a kilometre from the mainland of Turkey, was inhabited as early as the beginning of the Stone Age. During the Trojan War, Samos was one of the first to boast a fortified town with a citadel. Hera, queen of the Greek gods and wife of Zeus, has been worshipped here since 1000 BC. Even today you can admire the ruins of the Heraion, as the temple of Hera was called. Sacrificial offerings from across the world of Greece have been found at the site and can be viewed at the Archaeological Museum of the City of Samos.Â
