The Old Town of Xanthi magnetizes visitors and leads them where she wants them to go
It’s a crossroads of civilizations. A city that is different from the other cities of Greece. Xanthi the city of museums. Of mansions and churches. A different corner of the country full of colors and aromas. The Old Town is the jewel of Thrace.
A lot has been said about the area, the sights and the natural beauties that the visitor will encounter. But more has been written and heard about the Old Town of Xanthi. It’s the place that magnetizes visitors. It enchants them.
The Old Town is built amphitheatrically, in the northern part of the city. Divided into two parts with a natural “border” the river Kosynthos.
Paved alleys and traditional houses are the first images that the visitor faces. Historical, neoclassical buildings and small gardens take you to another era. In the distant 1976, the Old Town was declared a protected settlement. As a result, it maintained its traditional form free of the danger of modern plans.
The church of Agia Theodora with 17 trees on its roof!
The period 1830-1845 is considered central to the architecture of the city of Xanthi. It’s the period of building today’s Old Town. The earthquakes of 1829 preceded them. The second phase of reconstruction is estimated to have taken place after 1870.
Walk in the atmospheric narrow streets
Its Folklore Museum is home to a true treasure trove of tradition linked to the city’s historical past. The exhibits and atmosphere reward the visitor. The building itself is a historical testament to the social and economic life of an area that flourished at the beginning of the 20th century.
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A beautiful walk is completed with a cup of coffee or some food. In the alleys of Xanthi’s Old Town you can enjoy a drink or have lunch. The city is full of life, and that can’t be hidden.
Before closing… Regarding the name Xanthi,there are two versions of the story. According to the first, Xanthi was the name of one of the daughters of Ocean and Tithya. According to the second, it comes from an Amazon that had the name Xanthi and reigned in the area at that time. Whichever you may choose, you’ll still have the same good time if you visit the city.
Tip: You should know that it may take you several days to see all the sights. The beauties of the city and of the wider area are too many. You may regret not having more days to spend in Xanthi. The jewel of Thrace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Xanthi's Old Town is considered the jewel of Thrace due to its unique blend of historical architecture, traditional neoclassical buildings, paved alleys, and atmospheric narrow streets. Built amphitheatrically in the northern part of the city and divided by the river Kosynthos, it has been a protected settlement since 1976, maintaining its traditional form and charm. The area is filled with museums, mansions, churches, and local cafes that create an enchanting experience for visitors.
The period 1830-1845 is considered central to the architecture of Xanthi's Old Town, following the earthquakes of 1829. A second phase of reconstruction occurred after 1870. This historical period shaped the neoclassical buildings and traditional houses that visitors see today.
Key attractions include the Town Hall, Hatzidakis' house (home of one of Greece's greatest modern composers), the Italian-styled Stalios mansion, the stone-built church of Agios Vlasios, and the Folklore Museum. The museum houses a true treasure trove of tradition linked to the city's historical past and provides insights into the social and economic life of the area from the early 20th century.
It may take several days to see all the sights in and around Xanthi's Old Town. The beauties of the city and wider area are extensive, and many visitors regret not having more days to spend exploring this jewel of Thrace. Plan accordingly to fully experience the area's attractions and atmosphere.
There are two versions of the story regarding the name Xanthi. According to the first, Xanthi was the name of one of the daughters of Ocean and Tithya. According to the second version, it comes from an Amazon named Xanthi who reigned in the area. Regardless of which origin story is true, visitors will have an equally enjoyable experience exploring the city.
