M/Y Maria: Anafi

Pilgrimage to Kalamiotissa

Full day cruise to Anafi approximately 55 NM, 2h45 engine hours, Departure time 9am, Return 8.15 pm

Our journey will begin from the port; we will swim at picturesque beach of Kleisidi before mooring at the port for visiting Hora (Anafi town). We will sail along the exotic beaches admire the ancient port under the water in Katalimatsa beach. From there we will walk to the ruines of the ancien city at Kasteli. We will have lunch at a taverna on the beach of Megalos Roukounas. We will swim at Aghioi Anargyroi. From Prassies you will walk to the new Monastery and if you can, continue to the old monastery at the edge of the cliff, a breathtaking panoramic view of the aegean sea. Before starting our return, we will refresh at the remote beach of Halara.

Beaches √ Scuba X Antiquities √ Religion √ Speleo X Natural wonders √ Walk √ Traditional settlements √

Hora (Anafi town)

The village is densely populated and originates from medieval times. It is built amphitheatrically above the port, at an

altitude of 260 metres. It is off-limits to vehicles. Narrow cobbled streets criss-cross the village, leading to the Venetian Kastro (fortress), the initial nucleus and heart of the village. Several churches are scattered throughout Chora, all with Byzantine or post-Byzantine icons.

Kalamiotissa Monastery

Its location and the view inspire an indescribable sense of awe in all visitors...The tall monolithic rock, inaccessible by sea and hard to reach by land, forms a unique natural monument for the island. It plays host to rare species of flora and has impressive geo-morphological features. The rock was inhabited, on an occasional basis, at least, in Medieval times, as a refuge from the island's numerous invaders. Its highest peak hosts the now-abandoned old Kalamiotissa Monastery. It is a single-room domed temple with interesting architectural features, surrounded by a few monastic cells and a small water reservoir. Its location and the view inspire an indescribable sense of awe in all visitors

Footpath to Kalamiotissa Monastery

The route presents mountaineering features. It starts at the Monastery, passing above the north-facing bay of Chalara. The uphill footpath is often quite steep and climbs precipitous and often dangerous parts, which, however, are protected by railings. Particular attention is required in the presence of strong winds. However, climbers will be compensated for their efforts by the view in all directions, both during the climb and at its end (old Kalamiotissa Monastery). Entry to the Panagia church is subject to prior arrangements. Duration of route: 1 hour 15 mins, 1 hour 30 mins

Kasteli

The hill on which the ancient city was located extends to an altitude of 327 metres. Ruins of the asty, the Anafian citystate

can be seen there; the city was probably established in the 8th century BC by Dorian colonists, and dominated island life until the end of antiquity. The city walls, as well as extensive ruins of the city’s cemetery, can be seen at Kastelli. Rich findings from the Roman period, during which the island flourished, are scattered throughout the area; one particularly impressive finding is the sarcophagus located next to the historic chapel of Panagia sto Dokari.beauty and wildness, loyal people overcame their weaknesses and managed what today is known as a small miracle. Built upon steep rock cliffs it hangs into an abyss as if touched by the hand of God.