Galaxidi – Charming and Beautiful Seaside Village in the Corinthian Gulf
Little Galaxidi is with its curved seafront, narrow cobblestone streets and pebbled coves one of the most beautiful seaside towns around the Gulf of Corinth. The double-sided harbour is well-sheltered for fishing boats and yachts.
Galaxidi – A Charming Seaside Village
Where is Galaxidi Greece?
The Natural Double Harbour of Galaxidi
Carnival in Galaxidi
Maritime Museum & Archaeological Collection
Why Visit Galaxi Greece?
Galaxidi – a charming seaside village
During the 19th century the older harbour was an important shipbuilding centre. In this era the little town prospered and acquired its fine stone mansions. Locally it is known as the ‘Widows’ Port’, referring to the wives who waited in vain for their seamen husbands. On the southern side lies the other harbour lined up with cafes, bars, and seafood restaurants. From here you can enjoy the view of the narrow channel and the opposite waterfront the northern side with the forested background, walking paths and coves popular for swimming.
Where is Galaxidi Greece?
Galaxidi is built on a small peninsula at the northeastern side of the Corinthian Gulf. Until recently (in 1963, when the road to Naupaktos finally was constructed) the only way to reach town was by boat, since the tall mountains and steep slopes all the way around, totally isolated the area. Galaxidi is an almost 3 hour’s drive from Athens and a relatively popular weekend retreat.
Delphi Tours
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Until the late 19th century, Galaxidi had a sizeable merchant marine fleet and was a prosperous commercial centre. This is reflected in the size and style of the local buildings. Preservation of the traditional architecture has facilitated the growth of tourism in recent decades. The marine museum contains exhibits from this period.
There is a road behind the town that leads up the mountain to the Monastery of the Metamorphosis (actually a convent that was inhabited by one nun as of 2010). This provides a splendid view of the city and its surroundings.
On a clear day, the Peloponnese can also be seen to the south.
The natural double harbour of Galaxidi
Galaxidi is a small port situated on a natural double harbour surrounded by mountains. The deeper main harbour provides docking facilities for yachts and small fishing boats and is lined with restaurants, bars, and stores. The smaller harbour, Hirolaka, is residential, with a park from which there is a splendid view of Itea and Delphi. The western part of Parnassus can be seen from here.
Carnival in Galaxidi
The Carnival Season in Greece ends with the celebration of Clean Monday which coincides with the beginning of the Greek Orthodox Lent. On that particular day the custom of Alevromoutzouroma (literally Flour Smudging, or else Flour Wars), takes place in Galaxidi. The origins of the custom are unclear, however it appears in its current form since the mid-19th century.
Around noon, locals and visitors of all ages dressed up in old clothes meet at a predefined location where flour is distributed in large quantities. Various types of coloring is added for effect while people paint their faces with charcoal. Then they march to the harbor which is usually split into a war zone and a neutral zone for the observers and the fight begins. The participants throw each other (and to unsuspected bystanders) colored flour until essentially they run out of supplies. The event often attracts media coverage.
Maritime Museum & Archaeological Collection of Galaxidi
The Archaeological Collection of Galaxidi showcases finds from the region of Galaxidi, which date from the Bronze Age to Late Antiquity and relate to private and public life, commercial activities and burial practices. It includes the Galaxidi Chronicle which was published by KN Sathas in 1865. It used to serve as a town hall for Galaxidi.
Working days-hours: daily, 08:00-13:30 (summer)
General Admission: free
Tel: +30 22650 41558
Why visit Galaxi Greece?
Galaxidi is a perfect resort during your summer visit to ancient Delphi. Its climate is cooler and during weekdays it is tranquil and charming. During weekends Athenians are fleeing from the big city and using Galaxidi as a weekend getaway.
Corinth Tours
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There is a road behind the town that leads up the mountain to the Monastery of the Metamorphosis (actually a convent that was inhabited by one nun as of 2010). This provides a splendid view of the city and its surroundings. On a clear day, the Peloponnese can also be seen to the south.