Tinos is an island in the northeast of the Cyclades it is 197,000 square meters and the 4th largest in size in the Aegean archipelago. The climate of Tinos is mainly Mediterranean, but due to strong winds the winters can be particularly harsh except within its valleys that are protected from the north wind. There are 3 large habitats on the island, Livada, Kolibithra and Panormos. The island is also home to 5 species of snakes: Ohia (vipers) – Ophios (really big in inhabited areas) – Abelousa – Saltari – Lafitis (which was considered a blessing by the farmers).

If we exclude the high mountainous areas of Tskinias, Patela, Prophet Elias in Exo Meria) which are impossible to cultivate, most of the rest of the island was actively cultivated in the past including village settlements and until recently there were many important natural springs.The large number of its springs used to provide water to the villages: Zodemeni, Megalou Potamou, Agia, Plomariou, Livada, lazari, Sweet water, Xinara.

In ancient times Tinos was called Hydroussa, meaning with a lot of water – hydor, made famous by medieval travelers.

We know from direct and indirect sources that the old forests of Tinos were located in Kechorvouni (the monastery), in places that the wind does not blow as strongly in Tsiknias where the word Boskos is still being used and in the highlands of Exomeria. The complete annihilation of the Tinian forest happened during the Ottoman times when the need for land to cultivate was incredibly high.

During Byzantine and medieval times a geat part of Tinos was covered in forests Cedars and oak trees.

Sources:

1. Greek Traditional Architecture – Tinos, 1984, Athens, Melissa Publishing house