The Kassandra Peninsula is the westernmost and most populous "finger" of Halkidiki. Here you can find hotels of any class, traditional Greek taverns, discos, bars and other entertainment, as well as a wide selection of outdoor activities. There are many vacationers on Kassandra with children, young people and “locals” who value the peninsula no less than others for its beauty and cleanliness of the sea.
Kassandra itself stretches for 50 km, the greatest width of the peninsula is only 15 km, and the largest high point- 353 meters above sea level. In ancient times this peninsula was called "Phlegra", which means "burning land". According to mythology, this was the land of Giants, it was here that Alcyoneus, the first giant, the son of Heaven and Earth, was born. Life is in full swing today on Kassandra: 44 populated areas The peninsula annually welcomes thousands of tourists to its resorts.
The peninsula was named in honor of Alexander the Great's son-in-law, King Cassander, who founded a settlement in these places back in the 4th century BC. At that time there was a large port functioning here, and brisk trade was conducted, villages grew and prospered.
Weather in Kassandra
The mild Mediterranean climate also contributes to a pleasant holiday. Here you can take leisurely walks or bike rides through the mountains or pine forests, bask on the golden sand and swim in the warm Aegean Sea, take voyages on a yacht or scuba dive into the depths of the sea.
Main resorts of Kassandra
Nea Fokea is a village on west coast peninsula with a picturesque bay and a Byzantine tower at the very edge of the sea.
Nea Potidea - beautiful town with amazing sandy beaches, built on the ruins of the Corinthian colony of the same name.
Afytos is a small village that has preserved the national style in the architecture of the houses, offering beautiful views of the turquoise waters of Kassandra Bay.
Kallithea (translated as “beautiful view”) is the busiest town: night life It calms down here only with the first rays of the sun. During the day, kilometer-long beaches and turquoise sea await them with amazing cleanliness.
Hanioti is famous for its beautiful embankment, clear sea, taverns with traditional cuisine, lively nightlife and opportunities for all kinds of water sports.
Pefkohori is a unique ecological paradise of the Khalidiki Peninsula. It is located close to southern point peninsula. There is an extraordinary climate here, an amazing combination of mountains, pine forests and azure sea.
Maps of Kassandra
Cuisine and restaurants
Kassandra should also appeal to active people who are not used to being bored either day or night, for them there will be entertainment for every taste, an active beach holiday smoothly flows into unbridled night fun, loud music sounds here from sunset to dawn, and reflections flicker from the dance floors.
In addition, do not miss the opportunity to taste the unsurpassed Greek wine and enjoy a variety of dishes prepared according to traditional recipes from fish that just a few minutes ago swam in the sea. All resort towns have a lot of chic restaurants with excellent European cuisine, but it’s more interesting to look into a small tavern or restaurant on the seashore in the national style. Here you will be given a warm welcome and met according to all the laws of Greek hospitality, and perhaps the owner of the establishment will even treat you to a glass of delicious homemade liqueur.
Beaches of Kassandra
Just imagine: fifty kilometers of well-groomed beaches, equipped to the highest standards, with a clean, gentle sea, grandiose water parks and secluded picturesque bays. This is where most is concentrated entertainment centers and hotel complexes throughout Halkidiki, and even Ibiza would envy the local clubs and beach discos.
In addition, in the southernmost village of the peninsula - Agia Paraskevi, right in the pine forest, there is a unique thermal spring, the waters of which have no analogues in their healing properties. Visiting them will help you strengthen your nervous and cardiovascular systems, improve your skin condition and even relieve rheumatism. And in combination with the legendary honey, which is brought by bees only from this region, you can quickly restore your strength, strengthen your immune system - and also enjoy its wonderful taste.
Popular hotels in Kassandra
Entertainment and attractions of Kassandra
Much has changed since then, but the ruins of an ancient Byzantine-era tower in the town of Nea Fokea, and the remains of the ancient city of Nea Potidea, where luxury hotel complexes are now located, eloquently testify to the island’s past history. And in the tiny village of Kallithea, you will have the opportunity to touch centuries-old history, and maybe even comprehend the wisdom of your ancestors in the place where, back in the 8th millennium BC, the temple of Zeus stood, as well as a sanctuary in honor of the god of wine and fun - Dionysus. These regions are also rich in more recent architectural attractions - you can, for example, look into one of the many chapels, or spend a few minutes in the peaceful garden of an ancient monastery - a lot of pleasant emotions and a feeling of inner harmony are guaranteed to you.
But most of all attracts tourists to the resorts of Kassandra unique nature, here you can get intoxicated by the clean air, saturated with the aromas of the herbs of mountain meadows, the smell of pine needles and the salty sea breeze. Moreover, the World Conservation Organization has recognized the waters of the Aegean Sea in the coastal areas of Kassandra as one of the cleanest in the world - special blue identification flags with UNESCO symbols are now installed here.
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I had never before traveled such long distances by bus. But everything turned out to be not so scary and even very exciting. I will not describe our long journey in detail. We traveled for about four days, and crossed the border between Bulgaria and Greece early in the morning.
Naturally, I couldn’t close my eyes anymore. Outside the window, endless fields and olive groves floated by. I've never seen olive trees before. And here in such quantities.
Our path lay on the Chalkidiki peninsula, in the village of Hanioti. This is the Northern part of Greece. The Chalkidiki peninsula has three "fingers". It is also called the "Trident of Poseidon". The first finger is Cassandra, the second is Sithonia, the third is Athos. Our village was located on Kassandra.
VILLAGE OF HANIOTI, CHALKIDIKI-KASSANDRA PENINSULA
A few words about the village. The village is small in size.
But everything necessary for comfortable rest you will find it here. There are expensive and budget hotels. Lots of taverns and bars. But there is not a single discotheque, the nearest one is in the village of Kallithea.
There is a large grocery store and several car rental agencies. Eat bus stop, which allows you to independently ride through other coastal villages. There is a representative office of Mouzenidis Travel, where you can take any excursion.
In the evening, the village comes to life; the following fountain lights up in the central square:
Having passed Thessaloniki, it was obvious that our destination was very close. Then the road went along the coast. And, oh praise to the Greek Gods, what most picturesque views opened up before us. The crystal clear Aegean Sea combined with coniferous forests, sandy beaches, secluded bays. Just imagine all this beauty!
Since our trip was supposed to be budget, the hotel was also budget. But! Quite a decent hotel (no cockroaches) with modest rooms and excellent food! And his name Hanioti Grand Victoria 3* ().
Our tour price included breakfasts and dinners . Therefore, the next point of my review will be about nutrition.
FOOD IN GREECE.
We had breakfast and dinner at our hotel restaurant. If you can call it a restaurant, it looked more like a canteen. We went to dine exclusively at Greek taverns located in our village. You can't put into words how delicious Greek cuisine is!
There are a lot of taverns, for every taste and color. Here are some examples prices:
We always went to different ones to try everything. The portions are very large! We often took one between us. On average, it cost us 12-15 € for lunch for two, including the first, second, and beer on top.
What I recommend you definitely try in a Greek tavern:
- This is the number one dish in Greece. Casserole made from eggplant, potatoes, minced meat and Bechamel sauce. I devoured it there every other day. I tried to cook it at home, but it didn’t work out that well. We need to go to Greece again)
- Tzatziki (or tzatziki). This is a sauce made from Greek yogurt, fresh cucumbers, garlic and dill. Consolidation! In the photo on the left.
- Suzukakya (you'll laugh out loud at the name). These are oblong minced meat cutlets in wine tomato sauce.
- Pastitsio. The dish was served in a clay pot. This is a casserole of pasta, meat and Bechamel sauce.
- Bugatsa. This is a traditional Greek pastry made from puff pastry. The filling can be with custard, cheese, or meat. We bought it not in a tavern, but in stalls with fresh pastries, and took it with us to the beach.
- Seafood. There are a huge number of them. We took squid and a whole tray with shrimp, octopus, and mussels.
- Corn. I have never eaten anything tastier than Greek corn in my life. Sweet, juicy, sold on the beach. Cost 1€.
- Frappe. And finally, I advise you to refresh yourself with a Greek coffee drink, which is served cold.
There was a supermarket in our village, where you could also get something for a snack. There were fruit stalls. I won’t say that fruit prices were low. Despite the fact that September is the end of the tourist season.
BEACHES AT KASSANDRA.
In the village the beaches are shallow small pebbles. The entrance to the sea is also pebbly. But it’s even useful; walking barefoot on pebbles is better than any massage.
From the Grandotel Hanioti 4* hotel the beach strip is narrow, and the further you go, the wider it is.
The beaches are equipped in some places. But sunbeds and umbrellas are available for an additional fee. Even in Greece they practice this system: if there is a bar on the beach, buy something to drink there (Pepsi/Cola/coffee/beer) and get sunbed and umbrella free of charge .
The sea here is the cleanest! You can see every pebble, every fish, even at depth. And what a color! Rich turquoise! Just a living picture!
Pebbles are not everywhere on Kassandra! We also went to the village of Kallithea. The beach there is sandy. Wide enough.
WHAT TO SEE IN MAINLAND GREECE.
- In Greece, it is a very popular practice among tourists to take car rental and independently travel around the picturesque coves located along the coast. We didn’t take a car for the reason that we only had 7 days and we wanted to spend them lying on the shores of the Aegean Sea. But for the future, we asked about the cost of this service.
- Meteors. Halfway through the journey to Greece, I was 100% sure that I would visit. This is such a miracle, created by the joint efforts of nature and the hands of man, that it would be a sin not to visit. Who doesn’t know, Meteora are Orthodox monasteries located on high cliffs. The excursion cost 50€/person.
- Works well in Halkidiki transport connection. There was a stop near our hotel with a schedule in Greek and Russian. Therefore, one day we decided to take a ride to the neighboring Kallithea village. He is larger than Hanioti. There is a more active nightlife here, there are clubs.
We spent the whole day there. The beach wasn't left out either. I mentioned it above.
In the evening we returned back in exactly the same way. By the way, the final stop of this bus is Thessaloniki. Those who wish can go there on their own.
The walk is quite long, about an hour. The higher you go, the more beautiful the views.
Along the way you will come across a small chapel.
Don't forget to bring some treats for the turtles! All along the way you will see signs with the same inscription. Follow them. The lake itself is small, but its inhabitants are impressive. There are so many of them!
The Kassandra Peninsula is the western tip of Chalkidiki in Greece, connected to mainland Greece by a bridge. Currently this is one of the best places in Europe for archaeological tourism and beach holiday.
This peninsula was named by the ancient Greeks in honor of Alexander the Great's father, Caesar Cassander. He ruled here before the new era and became the founder of a large trading harbor. Ancient Greek legends say that Kassandra is the homeland of the Giants.
Tourism in Kassandra
Chalkidiki is the northeastern part of Greece. Kassandra, as a small part of Halkidiki, has a length of about 50 km and a width of no more than 15 km. The coast of Kassandra is one of the cleanest in Europe; many local beaches have Blue Flags.
This is a great place for a vibrant youth holiday in discos and bars, as well as for parents and children to relax on the beaches and playgrounds. There is a suitable place for every guest of Cassandra.
Climate and weather
The high season in Kassandra lasts from April to October. And the most best time for relaxation - all summer. Due to the proximity of the sea and the climate here, thalassotherapy is widely practiced.
In winter, the daytime air temperature fluctuates around +16C. Sea water temperature is +3C. IN summer time the air temperature is about +22C - +25C, and the water in the sea heats up to +23C and above.
Resorts of Kassandra
It is small resort village, standing on the shores of Thermaikos Gulf and possessing a picturesque bay. On the shore of the bay near the village there is an ancient Byzantine tower. According to legend, St. preached from it. Apostle Paul.
The tower and bay are named after this saint. Not far from it there is an underground spring with healing water and an ancient chapel. Nea Fokea is a wonderful holiday destination for newlyweds and couples with children.
Nea Potidea
This is a very comfortable and calm town with magnificent sandy beaches with Blue Flags. As an attraction, there are the ruins of an ancient fortress. A great place for beach lovers.
Most of the rural houses are built in this village in traditional Greek style architectural style. There is also a museum of ethnography, ancient quarries, a healing spring, and several Orthodox churches.
Aya Paraskevi
This village is famous throughout Europe for its sulfur springs. People come here to take hydrogen sulfide baths, which have a beneficial effect on the human body.
This town is famous for its Byzantine fortress Stavronikita. After a great holiday local beaches It will be interesting to wander among the ruins. There are also many shops with goods at affordable prices.
Pefkohori
This resort seems to be created for lovers of solitude. Tourists will be delighted here low mountains, pine forests and sea beaches. You can fully enjoy nature and the absence of noisy crowds.
Nea Moudania
This is a modern town with a port from where you can go exploring Aegean Sea. In mid-summer, a sea festival takes place in Nea Moudania, bringing actors and musicians from many countries around the world.
This resort is famous for its ancient monument - the Temple of Zeus. It was erected on the Kassandra Peninsula for the third millennium. And next to it is the sanctuary of Dionysius, where drunken orgies are still held to this day.
This resort town has a lot of greenery and sandy beaches. The tourist infrastructure is well developed: many restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, shops. At night there are discos with cool DJs. Perfect place for youth recreation.
The sandy beaches on this peninsula are famous for their cleanliness and well-groomed conditions. Their total length is more than 50 km and they have all the necessary beach infrastructure. It is known that the waters of the Aegean Sea are among the cleanest and most transparent in Europe.
On the beaches of Nea Fokea there are small bays with warm water, where small children will be comfortable and safe to swim. Adults can go deeper into the now fashionable snorkeling.
There are many bars along the beaches of Afitos. This is entertainment for adults, as well as young people who like to spend time at night discos in search of extreme entertainment.
There is parking for boats and yachts on Glarokavos beach. From here you can always take a boat trip around the Kassandra Peninsula, exploring the surrounding area, or go yachting with a coach, etc.
The golden beaches of Pefkohori are popular among young people and couples with children. There is very fine, soft sand and a gentle entrance to the sea. The beaches are well equipped, like all the others in Kassandra.
Sights of Kassandra
In ancient times, the inhabitants of Kallithea worshiped the Egyptian sun god Amon and the ancient Greek sky god Zeus. These gods were closely intertwined in their minds. This became known to scientists based on the results of archaeological excavations.
During excavations, archaeologists discovered inscriptions on the ruins of the temple sanctuary that Poseidon is a sea god who has been worshiped in Greece since the 2nd millennium BC, i.e. long before the Roman era.
One of the monks from St. Athos also recalls the Temple of Poseidon in his manuscript. In the mid-19th century, a lighthouse was built next to its ancient ruins, which has been perfectly preserved to this day - another local landmark.
This Orthodox church stands a few kilometers from Pefkohori in the village of the same name. The village itself is surrounded by pine forest. You can go to church at any time to be alone with God. The villagers will show you where the key is.
Temples of St. Paraskevas were also erected in Russia, Ukraine, and Poland. In the village of St. Paraskeva also has a thermal spring, which has no analogues in Europe, with amazingly healing, healing water.
This monastery was founded in the late 80s of the last century in Pefkohori. It contains the relics of John, revered in Greece, who is considered here a wonderworker and patron of Hellas.
Today in this monastery six monks live. The abbot invites Greeks and tourists from other countries to get acquainted with the peculiarities of the life of the monks and explore the interior of the monastery.
This medieval tower was erected at the beginning of the 15th century on Kassandra in Nea Phokea by Byzantine craftsmen. Its height is almost 20 meters. The tower stands on a hill next to the bay.
Chapel of St. Paul was built much later than the tower - in the 60s years XIX century. From it there is a passage into a cave where a spring with holy water flows. Local residents are convinced that it is in the cave of St. Paul baptized people.
This Orthodox Church stands on main square Afitos. It was built in the mid-19th century in the form of a basilica with domes. The Greeks claim that this is the only church in this architectural style in Halkidiki.
Church of St. Demetrius has a magnificent interior decoration and a rich iconostasis. It is active and services are held here regularly. Tourists have access to the church, but to do this they need to pay €2 for a ticket.
This is a small village ideal for family vacation with kids. There are magnificent natural attractions here: olive groves, cleanest lakes. You can visit the local nature reserve where they live rare species turtles.
How to get to Kassandra?
From Russia, first of all, you need to get to the airport in Thessaloniki. There are regular flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Thessaloniki + charters in the High Season. Getting to Greece by other means of transport is more difficult and takes longer.
From Thessaloniki Airport to Kassandra you can take regular bus, taxi or rented car. There is a bus stop near the airport, from where you should go to the bus station and buy a bus ticket there. To Kallithea it costs €9.8.
You can order a taxi in advance to go directly from the airport to Kassandra online at Kiwi Taxi. You will definitely be greeted by a taxi driver with a sign with your name written on it. A transfer to Kallithea costs at least €150.
You can rent a car, since rental companies operate everywhere. At the airport you will definitely find several rental offices. We recommend renting a car for the entire vacation: it’s convenient and cheaper.
Kassandra is a charming peninsula located in the western part of Halkidiki. Thessaloniki is located nearby. Kassandra is connected to the rest of the region by an amazing bridge from Nea Potidea. This village is the starting point of every traveler arriving here. It is difficult to call Kassandra a peninsula, since it is completely separated from the territory of Halkidiki by the Gulf of Potidea. It offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
In ancient times, the name of the peninsula was different. The Greeks called it Phlegra (“place of fire”). Ancient Greek myths say that Giants lived here. Creatures were born from drops of the blood of Uranus, which fell on the body of the goddess Gaia. It was here, according to mythology, that there was a historical battle between the Giants and the gods of Olympus for world power. The giants threw huge rocks onto Olympus, and Zeus sent lightning to Phlegra, burning the peninsula to the ground.
One of the myths says that a rock thrown by the Olympian gods during the battle crushed the Seismic Giant. However, the boulder did not kill him, and he remained on Cassandra. Since then, when the Giant tries to get out, the Earth suffers an earthquake. The rock thrown by Poseidon crushed another Giant - Aphos. Named after him famous mountain. The war between the gods of Olympus and the inhabitants of Phlegra continued for a long time. Everything changed after a prediction given to the gods. It said that the help of a mere mortal would decide the outcome of the battle. Then it was decided to turn to Hercules, the son of Zeus and a mortal woman. The warlike young man defeated Alkeon, who was the first among the Giants. This meant the complete victory of the gods. The daughter of Alkeon, Pallini suffered bitterly and, unable to bear it, threw herself and her sisters into the sea. Poseidon's wife Amphitrite did not let them die. The goddess wrapped the girls in seabirds. The name of the eldest gave the name to the peninsula. It changed in 315 BC. The Macedonian king Kassander, having chosen the peak, built Kassandria there. Then the name spread throughout the territory.
Now Kassandra is a modern resort welcoming guests from all over the world. Greeks also come to the peninsula to take a break from routine and relax. Equipped beaches and developed infrastructure attract tourists. The traveler is greeted by kilometers of open-work coastline, turquoise waves of the sea, and most importantly - active nightlife: traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants, creative bars, discos, clubs - you can find entertainment to your liking on every corner. Along with this, Kassandra is a place thermal springs And wide choice places to stay: from small cozy hotels to expensive apartments, from family hotels to luxurious hotel complexes. Lovers have a nice holiday They will appreciate the golf courses, marinas, and SPA centers.
Tourists of the younger generation those who love relaxation after sunset, you will appreciate the Kallithea area. Stylish clubs are found here at every turn. Before this, there is always the opportunity to drop into one of the many cafes or bars, of which there are plenty in Halkidiki. The evening will not be boring on such a wonderful trip. Local restaurants invite you to enjoy non-standard dishes from chefs or taste traditional Greek cuisine - the choice is yours.
Administrative division
The current municipality of Kassandra includes:
Kassandria (administrative center of Kassandra),
Sled,
Nea Fokia,
Afitos,
Kallithea,
Kriopigi,
Cassandrino,
Furka,
Hanioti,
Pefkohori,
Polychrono,
Siviri.
It is known that Kassandra is the birthplace of the famous philosopher Aristotle. Stagira will open a lot for visitors interesting facts about the life of the great thinker, and the beauty of the surrounding nature will give you an incredible walking experience.
These places are significant for the religious world. Saint Athos and the monastic state of Agion Oros are a place of pilgrimage for parishioners from all over the world.
Petralona Cave keeps many secrets. Unique natural monument was opened in 1959. A year later, the skull of an archanthrope was found there. Research conducted by scientists has shown that the remains found belong to to the oldest man on European territory: it is about 700 thousand years old. You can see more than just fossils and skeletons. The cave also displays wonderful natural figures: stalactites, stalagmites, stalagnates.
The Kassandra Peninsula is full of myths. A touch of history lurks around every corner. Who knows, maybe in just a minute the Giant will again attempt to break out of the ground. Scientists, for example, say that the nature of the peninsula was completely different, the hills of Kassandra are fragments of a meteorite or the consequences of an eruption ancient volcano, and where he was, sulfur smoke is still visible above the surface.
Among the cities of Kassandra, Kallithea deserves special attention. The bays of Lidico and Anthony Quinn fascinate with their extraordinary beauty, opening up space and allowing thoughts to wander freely. But this is not the only advantage of Kallithea. Top class tourist infrastructure includes everything a modern tourist needs. Coming here means decorating your life with bright shades of nightlife, and therefore young travelers will appreciate the selection of bars, discos, and clubs.
Nea Moudania is famous for its annual Festival of the Sea. This international event brings together tourists who want to experience all the delights of a beach holiday. The port provides an excellent opportunity to take a yacht cruise along the Aegean Sea, feel the breath of the elements, and disappear into the vast expanses.
Green Hanioti is waiting for everyone to live a few days in paradise. Surprises await shoppers here. Demanding travelers can confidently head to Nea Flogita. A holiday here is a great option for a family holiday. Young children will have plenty to do, as there are many playgrounds and entertainment complexes located in the city.
In search of peace and tranquility, you should go to the Kholomond Mountains. Cleanest air with the scent of pine needles, the opportunity to hunt, ride horses or on foot, pick mushrooms - tourists who love leisure will be happy. New cozy hotels combine comfort and accessibility.
Kassandra is notable for the fact that a large number of small ancient villages introduce visitors to the local traditional cuisine. A check for a restaurant or cafe will be inexpensive, and the visitor will receive fresh products, be it seafood, vegetables or cheeses. For those who prefer to cook their own food, a strong recommendation: visit the local market. Low prices for the best products are not a myth, like many things on Kassandra, but a reality.
The Mouzenidis Travel company organizes tours to any corner of Greece. It becomes easier to visit the Kassandra Peninsula, spend time usefully, and relax your soul and body thanks to experienced consultants. Convenient flight from anywhere in the world, company representative offices near tourist spots, the opportunity to choose the tour you like right at home - the modern tourist receives services High Quality easily.
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Attractions
Afitos
Afitos is a small settlement on the territory of Kassandra. Ancient legends say that the first titans were born in this place, and later their battle with the gods took place.
The town has existed for more than 300 years. In ancient times, this picturesque settlement was a large metropolis that minted its own coins. Afitos was destroyed several times. The last major reconstruction of the city began in 1827. At this time, stone houses atypical for Greece were erected. Many buildings and architectural structures erected in the 19th century are today the main attractions of Afitos.
On the main square of Afitos is the Church of St. Demetrius, built in 1859 on the ruins of a temple destroyed by the Turks.
Saint Demetrius is highly revered by the Greeks. The temple dedicated to the Saint contains ancient icons, mosaics and other ancient religious objects. The architecture of the church is a three-nave domed basilica.
Not far from the church, in a stone mansion from the 19th century, there is a Folklore Museum. The museum's collection consists of household items, kitchen utensils, tools, and works of art donated by local residents. The museum perfectly reflects the traditions and culture of the settlement.
Near the sea there is an unusual place called “stone balcony”. Here tourists and residents of Afitos walk along the embankment, enjoy beautiful views and relax in restaurants and cafes.
Kallithea
The resort of Kallithea, popular among tourists, was an ancient religious center many millennia ago. It was in this place that archaeologists found the remains of the temple of Zeus-Amon and the sanctuary of Dionysus.
The Temple of Zeus-Amun is the main attraction of Kassandra and an important historical value for Greece.
The place for worshiping the gods was located in a picturesque place with incredible views and springs flowing nearby. Here the inhabitants of the island brought gifts to the gods, performed ceremonies and rituals. They decided to build a temple on the site, but it was not possible to build it quickly. In the second half of the 4th century BC, a temple dedicated to Zeus and Amun was erected.
The temple was surrounded by statues and columns, inside of which there was an open space. At the entrance to the sanctuary, a stone threshold was built into which spring water flowed.
During the Roman Empire, the temple flourished - an amphitheater and an altar were added.
Not far from the temple is the cave of Dionysus. The ancient Greeks worshiped the god of fertility and winemaking in this beautiful place surrounded by springs.
Archaeologists suggest that the sanctuary existed from the 8th to the 2nd centuries BC. e.
Today, only ruins remain of the majestic religious buildings. They are valuable historical objects. Entrance to the territory of the ruins is free. Every tourist can visit ancient places pilgrimage.
Potidea
The history of Potidaea goes back to ancient times. This area has been inhabited since antiquity. The city fell several times and was rebuilt again.
The main attraction of the settlement is the Nea Potidea canal, dug in the first century BC. The canal was surrounded by fortress walls dating back to the era of Justinian. The canal separates the Kassandra peninsula from the mainland of Halkidiki. Previously, people crossed the canal by ferry. Now there is a large bridge over it, connecting the peninsula with the mainland. From the height of the bridge there are incredible panoramic views. The canal was reconstructed in 1930. Near the canal, fortress walls have been preserved, which in the distant past protected the peninsula.
The main religious places of the island are the Church of St. George, the Temple of Panagia Faneromeni, the Church of St. Nicholas and St. Eustathius.
Nea Fokea
Modern Nea Fokea was inhabited in ancient times, and its modern appearance was given to it in 1922 by settlers.
There is an obelisk in Phokea. In the 20s of the last century, archaeologist Felix Chartiu conducted excavations on the territory of the settlement. At this time, terrible events took place in the city - the massacre of the Greek population. Hanging French flags from the windows of houses, Chartier covered many local residents. The obelisk was erected in memory of the bloody incident and the scientist who saved people's lives.
Not far from Phocaea there was a settlement of St. Paul, settled approximately in the 14th-15th centuries. Every June, St. Paul's Church hosts a religious festival in honor of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. According to legend, St. Paul hid in a local cave from his pursuers.
The temple preserves the Holy Spring, to which a dark, narrow underground corridor leads. Wall paintings and a marble column also survived.
Temple of Poseidon
During excavations in the quiet fishing village of Possidi in the 90s of the last century, archaeologists discovered the Temple of Poseidon.
Surprisingly, the sanctuary was not mentioned in any chronicle, although it was a cult place for more than a thousand years. Archaeologists discovered 4 buildings, the oldest of them dates back to the 11th century BC, the rest - to the fifth.
Sacrifices to the god Poseidon and sacred rites were performed in the temple. Near the temple, fragments of marble were found with the names of the people who performed the sacrifice. Male names predominate, because Poseidon was worshiped by sailors.
