On the southern coast of Central Greece and after a beautiful route between the mountains of Fokida, Galaxidi emerges. A stately, picturesque, historical symbol of seafaring, it reveals itself to us in the mouth of a rocky cove with a view of rocky islands and lighthouses. Its two natural ports, Agora and Hirolakas, - which are separated from each other by Kavos - were for many years a base for spirited sailors, who plowed the entire Mediterranean with the famous Galaxidian sloops. The Naval-Historical Museum as well as the Folklore Museum are strong proof of the great maritime history of the place.
Galaxidi: the famous naval state
Through the narrow cobbled streets we begin a walk through the districts of the traditional settlement admiring the neoclassical captain's houses. Colored facades; marble arches around the doors; flowered pebbled courtyards; stone balconies decorated with ship prows and tiled roofs, compose a picturesque architectural landscape. Among the wonderfully preserved buildings, we highlight the Tsalangyra mansion (today it houses the Town Hall building), the Aggeli mansion which houses the Folklore Museum, the stone Girls' School and the Burzeiko mansion.In the beautiful park of the city we stop to admire two ancient monuments: the tomb of King Lokros and the ruins of the wall of ancient Oianthi that was built there. Going around the five traditional squares, we are led to the highest point of the city for a visit to Agios Nikolaos with the masterpiece wood-carved iconostasis, the two bell towers and the imposing dome. The patron saint of the city together with the church of Agia Paraskevi, with the sundial in the forecourt and the zodiac - sunflower carved on the floor from 1911, are the top pilgrimages of Galaxidi.
Next stop, on the right side of the port, at the forested Pera Panda for a panoramic view of the small state. The cameras are literally on fire! However, because walking and fresh air whet the appetite, we head with quick steps towards the coast of Oianthi, where the cafes and restaurants of the city are lined up. We try the local specialties (Galaksidi is famous for its fresh seafood and delicious fish dishes) and sweet ravani. The locals urge us to come again during the carnival season to experience the traditional Dionysian custom of "flour smearing" that takes place on Clean Monday. With the sweetest memories we are preparing for a cultural pilgrimage to neighboring Delphi.
Source : visitgreece.gr
