ANAFI

The small, picturesque island of Anafi is the southeasternmost island of the Cyclades Group. A beauteous, tiny piece of land emerging from the deep, it could be paralleled with Aphrodite, the ancient Greek godess of beauty, who also emerged from the waves of the Sea. Seemingly lost in the vastness of the Aegean Sea, it is like an oasis of peace and beauty with its quiet  landscapes of golden beaches framed by a deepest blue, interrupted by white laces of gently frothing waves. Anafi covers an area of 38 sq.km and has a population of about 300 inhabitants, most of them living in the main town of Chora. According to mythology, Anafi emerged from the sea upon Apollo"s order, to provide shelter to the Argonauts, who were in grave danger due to a heavy, menacing storm. In gratitude, they built a temple in his honor, upon the site of which the Monastery of Panagia (Virgin Mary) Kalamiotissa stands today. In spite of its size, it has a great history, its significance surpassing any expectations its geographical characteristics could create. Many monasteries, churches and chapels adorn every remote corner of the island. In 1830, many locals left Anafi to work in Athens, in the archaeological excavation sites on the foot of Acropolis, where they built a settlement, "Anafiotika", that still stands today as one of the most picturesque quarters of Athens. The main town of Chora, built on top of a hill among the ruins of the medieval Venetian castle, is a sight of beauty. Sparkling white houses of exquisite architecture, chapels, and windmills gradually descend the hillside to form a network of winding alleyways, ideal for romantic or leisurely strolls. There are impressive archaeological sites, such as the ruins of the ancient city of Anafi, situated in the area of Kasteli. There are also the ruins of the temple of Apollo, the new Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi - Panagia Kalamiotissa (Lower Monastery), the old Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa (Upper Monastery) and many others. Furthermore, Anafi is endowed with numerous heavenly beaches. Being a remote and small island, Anafi is an ideal place for travelers who seek a peaceful environment, while the facilities offered can cover the needs of most visitors, especially those knowledgeable of the value that exists in trading vivid lifestyles for tranquility. There are rooms-to-let of respectable quality, taverns, bars, and an adequate local market. Visitors will certainly enjoy swimming and trekking, as they will savor the local delicacies. The traditional feast held on September 8th is well worth attending. Ferries sail from Piraeus to the port of Agios Nikolaos, while there is also a ferry connection with some of the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and Crete.

Usefull telephones:

ANAFI AREA CODE:  22860-

PORT POLICE: 22860-22239

MUNICIPALITY: 22860-61266

POST OFFICE: 22860-61203

MEDICAL CENTER: 22860-61215

POLICE STATION: 22860-61216