The Ancient Cities of Greece are popular and fascinating cities, as well as sites with a lot of history; these places are impressive and through a photograph you can capture the atmosphere of those old times …
Are you ready for a trip back in time? Come with us for a walk through the most charming cities in Greece!
Xánthi – the old town
X ánthi (Ξάνθη) prides itself on its old town and is rightly a cultural asset of the Thrace region . The winding cobbled streets add to the charm of the well-kept large houses built in a very special local style, a mix of Greek neoclassicism, local architecture and Ottoman crafts.
Every September the old part of the city has a festive atmosphere and its neighborhoods are decorated with a configuration of multiple colors that accompany the many artistic events. Visit the Museum of Folk Art which is housed in Kougioumtzoglou A Mansion, which has been converted into an art gallery.
Neighborhoods in the upper part of the city of Kastoria
One of the most picturesque places in the city is Doltso, an ancient area a short distance from Lake Orestiada. The neighborhood has large impressive houses from the 17th and 17th centuries that are reminiscent of a great economy, based on the tanning of hides and their commercialization.
Many of these houses have been converted into museums, such as the Neiva Aivazi Mansion, which houses the Museum of Popular Art, the Emmanouil Mansion, which is now the Costume Museum, etc. touring the place and near the north beach; you will arrive at another historical neighborhood called Apozari. Feel the aristocratic atmosphere, visit the impressive Byzantine churches and walk through the beautiful stately buildings built according to the local Macedonian architecture.
Traditional towns in Veroia
There were 16 districts in Veroia in the mid-19th century. The best known are the Jewish and Christian neighborhoods. Kyriotissa is a traditional Orthodox town with numerous Byzantine and Post-Byzantine churches, decorated with wonderful ceramic ornaments and religious icons that are beautiful works of art. You will be impressed by its winding streets lined with large houses (such as the Sarafoglou Residence) as its architectural style is quite particular. Many of the listed buildings in the area have been renovated and now host free time activities.
Barbouta is a traditional neighborhood, one of the most important Jewish districts in the world. Narrow streets surround the imposing stone building of the old Jewish synagogue; its interior has been richly and elaborately decorated.
Kavala. – the old town
The city stretches from Kamares, the city’s medieval aqueduct, to the Ottoman castle. Follow the cobblestone alleys upwards and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The best sights in Panagia are the castle and the acropolis, Imaret (meaning “house of poverty”) and the old lighthouse at the end of Theodorou Poulidou street.
The focal point of the old town is Mohamet Ali Square. In the center of it is the statue of Muhammad Ali, a local historical figure from the late 18th century. The church of Panagia. The church was built after 1965 on the ruins of a post-Byzantine three-nave basilica.
Xopoli, Corfu
This is the name given by the locals to its old town, an important landmark throughout the island. It is a cultural heritage site, one of the most beautiful in Corfu and Greece, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Xopoli is bounded by two fortresses: the old fortress in the north and the new fortress in the south.
Start your tour in the wide Spianada Square, passing under the impressive ancient arches that are part of the typical architecture of the city. Walk through the narrow alleys of Kantounia, where clothes are hung to dry between the houses, you will also be able to see small squares and churches with elaborate bell towers; this is a good way to experience the charming atmosphere of times gone by.
The medieval city of Rhodes
This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been built in a semicircular shape around the harbor. It is one of the few remaining medieval cities, having stood the test of time remarkably well, in all its beauty and splendor! Time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages and the city’s chivalric past creates a mystical atmosphere. Cobbled alleys and Gothic towers will open up and reveal their secrets. Visit the Palace of the Grand Master (14 ° c.), Kastello, one of the first buildings built by the Knights Hospitallers of Rhodes, the Archaeological Museum and the Clock Tower. Walk to the famous Calle de los Caballeros, which has been restored to the exact size and shape it had during the Middle Ages.
Nafplio – the old town
It was founded at the foot of the great Akronafplia rock, and is crowned by the Palamidi castle. This is the most romantic city in Greece and we invite you to explore it! Stroll through the cobblestone alleys, smell the sweet perfume of flowers coming from the balconies of elegant neoclassical and well-kept manor houses. Discover the impressive historical monuments of the city, most of which are located around Syntagmatos Square built in Italian style.
Visit two Ottoman mosques, one of which is used today as a movie screen and a theater area. This mosque had housed the first School where students taught each other according to their abilities (Allilodidaktiko School). The other mosque was where the First Parliament of Greece functioned. Also visit the Archaeological Museum, where precious samples from the prehistoric and Mycenaean times are exhibited. Other interesting places to see are the Municipal Gallery, the home of Theodoros Kolokotronis, one of the greatest freedom fighters of the Greeks against Ottoman rule.
Well known ancient cities in Crete
Chania or Rethymno? Over time, the question remains a question mark, seeing that both cities have a significant history that is evident in their old neighborhoods that possess a delightful mix of Venetian and Ottoman heritage elements.
The old town of Rethymno was built on the cape along the north coast and is very well preserved, it could even be an open-air museum. Among the most interesting monuments are Fortezza, Logia, Rimondi Fountain, Puerta Grande. There you can see the central entrance of the Venetian fortified walls, the imposing Church of St. Francis, the picturesque Venetian port, the Kara Mousa Pasa and Neratze mosques and many more.
In Chania, behind the Venetian port, there is a fascinating world that sums up the style and atmosphere of bygone times. Topana, Splantzia, Kasteli, Santrivani districts and the Jewish quarter are there for you to visit and explore its winding streets, discover the monuments that flank them, their history, as well as the essence of Cretan culture. Visit the traditional cafes (kafeneia) and taverns and let yourself be carried away by its magical atmosphere.
