Right next to Plaka, upon the sacred rock of Acropolis, is the area of Anafiotika.
One can say that Anafiotika is maybe the smallest neighborhood in Athens, but most certainly the most picturesque.
Its history starts in the 19th century, when builders from the island of Anafi settled in the area in order to help in the rapid reconstruction of the city of Athens that was gradually transforming from a village to a new capital.
Actually, many of them worked in the erection of the palaces of King Othon, who was the first modern king of Greece in 1832.
It is said that the people of Anafiotika, who were famous builders at the time, chose to built their own houses upon the rock of Acropolis, because the specific location was reminiscent of their hometown. In an effort to intensify this feeling, all the houses they built (most of them illegal) are a typical example of cycladic architecture, while the new neighborhood was named Anafiotika after their home-island Anafi.
So, a tiny "aegean island" was created, with small and low white houses just in the heart of Athens. This was a place inhabited exclusively by islanders until 1922. It is only after the Asia Minor Catastrophe (Mikrasiatiki Katastrofi) that some refugees did settle in.
Today the area of Anafiotika is a preserved village with approximately 45 houses.
It is worth visiting, not only for its characteristic beauty and the quaint neighborhoods, but also for the breathtaking view it offers, overlooking a great part of Athens.
Agistri, like most areas in Greece, is an excellent choice if you want to see first hand the traditional Greek Easter.
However, Easter is not the only feast around here. In Agistri several other panigiria take place throughout the year(mainly of religious nature)such as:
- Easter Friday, Zoodochou Pigis
- July 1, Agion Anargyron
- July 7, Agia Kyriaki
- August 15, Virgin Mary
In each of these occasions you will have fun with the Greek traditional way, ie with great food and endless drinking, dancing and singing until the morning.
Chalikiada beach is on the northeast side of Agistri island.
Chalikiada is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches not only in Agistri, but across the Saronic Gulf. It owes its name to the large pebbles that cover the whole beach, known in Greek as ''chalikia''. These pebbles, the wonderful vegetation and the blue waters create the ideal setting for a perfect day by the beach.
Access to Chalikiada is quite difficult, as you need to walk through the pine trees along a short path. Yet, once you arrive you get an extraordinary sense of isolation that, together with the magnificent scenery, compensate for your time.
Skliri beach is between Skala and Chalikiada.
In Skliri you will find amazing blue waters to swim, while in the area there is a beach bar with sun loungers and umbrellas to relax and enjoy your coffee, a drink or a light meal.
Skala beach is beside the namesake settlement.
Skala is a lovely beach with beautiful golden sand. Although located near the port, it has clean and shallow waters, making it a perfect choice for families with children. Once you find yourself in Skala, you can combine a wonderful swim with a meal in the excellent taverns and restaurants, while later (or earlier) you can enjoy your coffee or drinks in the coffee bars available in the area.
Beside your own vehicle, you can move around Agistry island by bus (more information 22970 91244) and ground or water taxis.
