Anafiotics is a small, beautiful part of the old town of Athens Plaka. Anafiotika means translated “Little Anafi”. The Anafiotika quarter was built by people from the Cyclades island of Anafi, around the middle of the 19th century. As a visitor of Anafiotika, you feel like you are on a Greek island, but you are in the middle of Athens. The district is between Plaka and the Acropolis, in Anafiotika it already goes uphill to the Acropolis.
The settlers from the island of Anafi in the Cyclades built in Athens as they were used to from home. White houses, blue shutters and doors, narrow streets like in the Cyclades. A picturesque quarter, the most beautiful in Athens.
Athens district |
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Old Town Athens | Anafiotika |
Kolonaki | Exarchia |
Psirri | Koukaki |
Overview of Athens districts |
Unfortunately, there are also many graffiti graffiti in anafiotics today. Some alleys are so narrow that even pedestrians have to turn to the side to get through, fat people have a real problem!
Everywhere beautiful flowers in pots and other plants like small trees. Many cats.
Our day trip tip: Visit three islands from Athens in one day: 3-Island Trip, bookable with Getyourguide: Click here
Anafiotika is a picturesque and charming neighborhood in the historic center of Athens, Greece. Located at the foot of the famous Acropolis, it is known for its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and breathtaking views of the city. The district is named after the island of Anafi, where many of the first inhabitants lived in the mid-19th century.
The history of Anafiotika dates back to the early 19th century, when King Otto of Greece invited a group of skilled stonemasons from the Cycladic island of Anafi to Athens to work on the city’s new buildings. Masons settled around the Acropolis and began building houses in the traditional Cycladic architectural style. Anafiotika houses are characterized by simple cubic shapes and striking blue doors and windows. The houses are built along steep, narrow streets that wind up the hillside, and many of them have small courtyards and roof terraces that offer great views of the city.
Despite its proximity to the bustling city center, Anafiotika has a quiet and peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of a traditional Greek village. The neighborhood has a close-knit community of residents who have lived here for generations. Visitors to Anafiotika often find friendly locals sitting outside their homes, chatting with neighbors and enjoying the sun. One of Anafiotika’s most popular attractions is the Church of St. George, located at the very top of the neighborhood and offering stunning views of the city. The church is a simple, modest building with whitewashed walls and a red-tiled roof. Inside, visitors can admire the magnificent frescoes and icons adorning the walls and ceilings.
Another attraction of Anafiotika is the nearby Acropolis, just a short walk away. The Acropolis is one of Greece’s most famous landmarks and is home to the famous Parthenon and several other ancient temples and structures. Visitors to Anafiotika can also enjoy a variety of local shops and restaurants offering traditional Greek cuisine and handmade souvenirs. The district is especially famous for its handmade leather sandals, which are sold in several shops in the area.
In summary, Anafiotika is a charming and unique neighborhood that offers a glimpse into traditional Greek life. Narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the city make it a popular destination for tourists, while its close-knit community and tranquil atmosphere make it a favorite home for locals.