Attractions to Visit in Anafi, Greece
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Anafi, Greece is a small, almost triangular-shaped island in the Cyclades. The population of permanent residents of the island is small. Anafi is still mostly a well-kept secret. Hora, the island’s capital, is full of Cycladic architecture. There are whitewashed houses and flowery courtyards.
The charming labyrinth alleys make for interesting walks. It seems that no matter where you are on the island, you can see the sea. The island of Anafi is home to beaches, steep cliffs, some attractions you won’t want to miss.
Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa
Located on a hill of Kalamos Rock is the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa. The old monastery is small, single-roomed, and domed. The monastery is an important religious monument of the island of Anafi. The Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa is found at 480 meters and offers a wonderful view of the Aegean Sea.
Getting to the monastery can be a little difficult. There is a hiking path from the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. The hike takes approximately 90 minutes. The hiking path, in additon to the monastery itself, is popular in Anafi and definitely worth the trip.
Temple of Apollo Aiglitis
The Temple of Apollo Aiglitis can be found in the Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi. You can view remnants of the ancient temple that was dedicated to Apollo. High sections of the temple and encosure walls are preserved to this day. The enclosure is made of large rocks built in a row. Legend says the temple was built by the Argonauts to honor Apollo for his help.
The Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi is the main monastery of the island of Anafi. The monastery was built on the foundations of the Temple of Apollo. In the monastery you can view a 19th century wood carved iconostasis. The location of the Temple of Apollo and monastery is a beautiful spot, which is why there is a complex of buildings dedicated to worship there.
Cave of Drakontospilo
Located at the northern part of the Rock of Kalamos is the Cave of Drakontospilo, also known as Dragons Cave. The cave is only accessible through a rough path, but it is well worth the trip. The cave features golden-green deposits that are created from water dripping on the walls, natural ponds, columns, and stalactites that continue to be formed to this day. Residents of Anafi Island believe that the interior of the cave leads through Kalamos and out to another smaller cave of the northern part of the rock.
Rock of Kalamos
The tall monolithic rock known as the Rock of Kalamos, or Mount Kalamos, is a natural monument on the easter side of the island. The Rock of Kalamos is the second highest rock in the Mediterranean. At the highest point of the rock is the abandoned monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa. The Rock of Kalamos has been designated an important area for birds. The Rock of Kalamos is visible from everywhere on the island of Anafi.
When you visit the beautiful island of Anafi, Greece, you will be treated to some breathtaking attractions.
Categorized in: About Anafi, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
