Chalkida, the capital town of Evia, is situated in the center of the island, only 80km. away from Athens. It has a population of approximately 100,000 inhabitants, being, thus, among the ten most populated cities of Greece. The name of the city originates from the ancient Greek word «chalki», meaning «laver». Some others believe that it derives from the word «chalkos», which in Greek means «copper», a material used for the making of weapons, tools and other objects during antiquity. The oldest mention of the city can be found in Homer’s Iliad, where it says that Chalkida participated in the Trojan War by offering forty ships. The town is ideal for those wishing to visit various places and  see numerous sites and natural beauties. Chalkida is the administrative, cultural, commercial and industrial center of Evia. Below the imposing castle of Kara Baba, stands the historical old bridge of Evripos. At the channel of Evripos, one can witness the rare tidal phenomenon, where the sea currents change every six hours at a velocity of 5-6 miles per hour. By the seaside stand some remarkable neoclassical buildings, the Red House being the most impressive of all. In Chalkida, the visitor can find a great variety of facilities, including hotels, cafeterias, restaurants, nightclubs and all sort of commercial shops.