Friday, August 26, 2011

Anafi, Cyclades Islands

In brief
According to Mythology, Anafi rose from the sea at Apollo's command, to protect Jason and the Argonauts who were beset by a storm, on their return voyage in quest of the Golden Fleece. Anafi is the island to get away from it all… It is a small and hilly island with friendly people and excellent beaches. It is a place for those who seek isolation and relaxed time to think.

General Information
From a distance, Anafi, in the south-east comer of the Cyclades, looks like no more than an isolated rock in the ocean.
According to the myths, the Argonauts sought refuge from a storm on the island.
Archaeological findings have demonstrated that Anafi was inhabited in antiquity. 

A road leads from the picturesque harbour of Agios Nikolaos up to Hora, the only settlement of any size, built on a naturally amphitheatrically site in the centre of the island.
The monastery of Our Lady “Kalamiotissa” (18th century, standing in the precinct of a temple of Apollo Aegietus), the Venetian castle near Hora, and the church of Agios Athanasios are among the special sights.
 
The local religious feasts are very lively, and so are the island dances.
A few rooms are available for rent on the island for those who enjoy quiet holidays close to nature.

Sightseeing 

Anafi is first and foremost an island for walking around on, with relatively small distances and footpaths linking Hora to the beaches.
The capital is the village Hora, which is a small, idyllic place with little cafes and tiny chapels.
Kastelli is an ancient settlement from the 9th century BC. In the 15th century the Venetians built a citadel on top of it, and the ruins you see today are mainly from then.
The monastery Zoodochou Pigis (Life-giving Source) is a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary; a spiritual and rejuvenating worthy visit.

Beaches

The beaches of Anafi, whether sandy or pebbly, are lapped by crystal clear green-blue water.
Klisidi, located east of the port (about 20min on foot) with fine, soft sand.
Katsouni, next to Klisidi, with free campers.
Megalos Roukounas, probably the best beach on Anafi, about 500m long. 




Useful Information 
(Area 38 sq. km. Distance from Piraeus 145 nautical miles)
How to get there
By sea from Piraeus & Lavrio
Piraeus Port Authority: +30 210 4226000-4, +30 210 4114005
Lavrio Port Authority: +30 22920 25249, 60188

Useful telephone numbers
Area Code: +30 22860
Municipal Offices: 61266
Police:  61216
Port Authority: 61216
Health center: 61215

http://www.anafi.gr

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