Anafiotika my love.
Let me tell you a story from the past.
During the mid of 19th Century, King Othon wanted to transform the new capital of independent Greece, into a modern metropolis. He also wanted to refurbish his Palace.
Construction workers and skilled cratsmen from Cyclades and especially Anafi and Naxos islands came to Athens.
They were considered the best. When they arrived in Athens, they constructed their small arbitrary houses on the north side section of the Acropolis Hill in a very short period of time. It was in a typical Cycladic Architecture and in whitewashed colours.
And that’s how this beautiful section of Plaka area, in the heart of the historical and most original part of Athens, was built.
The small, isolated neighbourhood of Anafiotika creates the impression of being on a Greek island. The colours of the bougainvillaea are blooming all over the walls, along with other potted plants! The narrow alleys that often lead to dead ends, everything makes you forget you are in the heart of Athens.
According to this article, most of the original village was destroyed in 1950 for archaeological research. Nowadays only 45 uses are remaining.
This beautiful small village is a not-to-miss experience, by anyone!
Just don’t forget to take your camera and wear comfortable shoes! Then you can enjoy a nice cup of coffee in Plaka which is minutes away!
PS: There are no names on the streets of Anafiotika and it’s not reachable by car or taxi. You can explore the whole village within 15 minutes! If you want to visit Anafiotika, there are many ways. One of them is this: You can reach by car (or on foot if you are already in the historic center) Agios Georgios Church, on Stratonos street. There is a small square there and some steps going up. Just follow these steps and ta-dah! You are in Anafiotika! Just keep strolling those narrow petit steps!
Until next time ♥
