The famous ancient Greek philosopher, mathematician, and founder of the religious movement called Pythagoreanism, Pythagoras came from Samos, and so a settlement of the island would definitely carry his name. In 1955 the beautiful seaside village on the southeast side of the island was named Pythagorio in memory of the great Samian philosopher whose statue stands in the pier. The city of ancient Samos, one of the most important cities of the ancient years, was situated in the current location of Pythagorio. The excavations that were carried out in the area proved its importance with the discovery of long walls, cobblestone streets and squares, villas with magnificent mosaic floors, temples, markets, public buildings, workshops, great sports facilities, baths and an excellent water supply and sewerage network. During the reign of Polycrates, important works were created, such as the worship temple of Hera, the Tunnel of Eupalinos, the Polykrateios Pier and the oldest artificial harbor in the Mediterranean Sea.
Crossing the picturesque paved streets, visitors will arrive at the port of Pythagorio, with many boats lining up and waiting for a nice one-day trip to Samiopoula or Tsopela. The ancient theater just outside the city hosts musical and theatrical performances during the summer. You will also see the monastery of Panagia Spiliani, with the small church inside the cave and the tower of Sarakinis, one of the oldest preserved constructions in Samos. The tower was constructed in 1577 when Uluç Ali Reis decided to populate again the isolated island.
Pythagorio is considered to be the cosmopolitan side of Samos, with many tourists arriving every year, but it still preserves its picturesque character.