Description of Anafi
Anafi is a little island that lies outside the mainstream, being the totally opposite to the famous island of
Santorini.
Anafi opens the gate to a slow-paced traditional lifestyle alongside with striking Cycladic landscapes and small and serene
hotels. It is like going back in time, when life used to be simpler and easier.
Geography of Anafi
Anafi is a small island spaning an area of 38,3 sq. km. with a total population of only 273 residents. The island closer to
Anafi is
Santorini on the west and both of the islands of
Anafi and
Santorini have a special microclimate classified as hot desert climate.
History of Anafi
Anafi, according to mythology, gave refuge to the Argonauts while in a bad storm by emerging of the depths of the sea. The historical evidence found on the island come from an ancient temple dedicated to
Apollo and it is the same place where the monastery of
Panagia Kalamiotissa is now located.
Sightseeing on Anafi
Anafi is the ideal place for walking. It has a network of
footpaths with an overall length of 18 kilometres that covers most of the island and lead to destinations with special cultural or environmental significance.
The
Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa is built on the ruins of an ancient temple of Apollo. The ruins of the ancient temple are exhibited in
Athens Archeological Museum and
Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg in Russia.
Anafi has also great local architecture that has been the reason that many of the locals came to
Athens in the 18th century creating the neighborhood of
Anafiotika on
Acropolis Hill.
Local Products of Anafi
There are several traditional delicacies you can try in
Anafi. For sure it is local handmade pasta and bread scented with saffron.
Getting to Anafi
By ferry boats departing from Pireaus Port in Athens. There is also a local connection to Santorini on an almost daily basis.
Best time to visit Anafi
From June to August, although it is high season Anafi is never over-packed with tourists.
Useful Phone Numbers on Anafi
Police: +30 22860 61216
Port Authorities of Anafi: +30 22860 61216
Medical Care: +30 22860 61215