Ios has a strong traditional Cycladic colour. Its houses, descending the hill, have their sparkling whiteness interrupted only by belfries and blue domes. Today, next to the old edifices, new ones have been built, somewhat altering the island's original character without taking anything from its quaintness. In addition, the old settlement has been preserved, and its two closed cobbled squares with the fountains or "piatzes" are very characteristic. The locals are simple people who have managed to keep their traditions alive despite of the intrusion of modern life. Their feasts have typical Cycladic colour and all the islanders revel together in the two settlements of the island. There are local dances and big tables are set where food and drinks are offered to everyone present.