The great historian Herodotus mentions that the island was named after a Phoenician named Thassos who, while looking for his sister Europe, passed by the island and decided to stay, tempted by the abundance of wood, white marble and gold. However, the name may have come from the greek word for forest, "dassos", changing the first letter "d" to "th".

The latest findings witness the presence of humans way before 2000 BC. Until 700 BC when the Parians were permanently established, many neighbor residents passed by Thassos. The Parians, however, developed the island with their hard work and passion for the exploitation of its rich-producing sources.

Soon, Thassos became a great economical center. Its products filled the markets of the world. Its currency was considered to be powerful as the gold and silver mines covered most markets.

The island took part in the Peloponnesian war, sometimes on the side of the Athenians and sometimes with the Spartans. After great losses because of the war, it was destroyed economically and its great walling fell down.

Phillip the second, father of Great Alexander, added Thassos to Macedonia. The island took part to Alexander's expedition. While under the Romans domination, Thassos had an economical rise.

During the Medieval years it became a prey to various pirates. A dramatic decrease of population took place. The presence of the Enetian family Gatilusi at 1353 gave a small boost but the island was conquered by the Turks at 1455 and declined again, living in poverty and stagnation.

At 18 October 1912 Thassos became free with the help of the greek fleet and since then takes the road to development.

Motherland of Polygnotos, the great painter of ancient times, as well as of Theagenis, the most famous athlete of ancient Greece. Thassos is proud of Polygnotos Vagis, the world-known sculptor. His work decorates the world's largest museums. Part of his work can be found at his birthplace, Potamia village, Thassos.

A famous visitor during ancient times was Hippocrates, the father of medicine, who was established on the island for three years. He left notes concerning the climate, the winds and other useful information helping us understand that period.