Anafiotika, Athens Travel Guide

Nestled on the northeastern slope of the Acropolis, Anafiotika is a unique and charming neighborhood that transports visitors to the Greek Islands. In the mid-19th century, craftsmen from the island of Anafi came to Athens to work on King Otto's palace. Homesick, they built their own village in the Cycladic style, with whitewashed houses and narrow, winding streets.Today, Anafiotika stands in stark contrast to the bustling city around it. With its quiet, car-free alleys and picturesque passageways, it offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors can wander through the neighborhood, admiring the architecture, enjoying the views of Athens, and discovering the Byzantine churches of Agios Georgios tou Vrachou and Agios Symeon.Despite its small size—less than 50 houses remain—Anafiotika retains its island atmosphere. The absence of street signs adds to the feeling of being lost in a timeless village. While exploring, be mindful that this is a residential neighborhood and respect the privacy of the locals.