Anafiotika is a beautiful, tiny neighborhood in Athens, tucked away on the northeast slope of the Acropolis hill. Built in the mid-19th century, it is renowned for its "island-like" atmosphere, often described as a hidden oasis that feels like a Cycladic village in the heart of Athens. You blink and you can miss it.
Anafiotika
Anafiotika as built by stonemasons from the island of Anafi who moved to Athens to construct King Otto's palace (now the Hellenic Parliament). They mimicked their home island's architecture on the steep hillside.
Only about 45 of the original houses remain today. Many were demolished in the 1950s and 1970s for archaeological excavations. Unlike the surrounding Plaka, Anafiotika is primarily residential with no shops or cafes. Most homes are still inhabited by descendants of the original settlers. Because it is a quiet residential neighborhood, visitors are encouraged to respect residents' privacy, keep noise levels low, and avoid peering into windows.
