Tinos is the largest island of the Cyclades, next to Naxos and Andros, with a total surface area of 194 sq. km. Its coasts are 114 km long, while its distance from Piraeus is 86 n.m. The island's ground is semi-mountainous and the highest mountain is Tsiknias (780 m.), followed by Xombourgos (640 m.) which stands on the central part of the island. The climate in Tinos is mild, gentle and cool, yet the strong winds, blowing round the year, prevent the development of agricultural production, in spite of the fact that Tinos has more water than the rest of Cyclades. The ore of Tinos is remarkable. The local green marbles are infamous, as they were used in the construction of Buckinham Palace. The earth of Tinos also includes lead, chrome and iron. The population of the island is 8,000 inhabitants who are occupied with sailing, marble work and stock-breeding, while few of them are occupied with tourism and agriculture. The people of Tinos are hospitable, cheerful and polite. They adore nature and agricultural work, in spite of the fact that the island has almost no agricultural production. They do their best to provide full service to the visitors storming the island on August 15th, while they constantly improve the island's touristic foundation.