Anopolis is a charming village located on a fertile plateau, 12 km west of Sfakia and 600 m above sea level. The village has a rich history, with remains of a vast city that thrived in the 3rd century BC still visible today. Anopolis was also part of an alliance of thirty cities and towns that formed a peace agreement with Eumenes B’ in 183 BC, which allowed them to mint their own coins.
During the Venetian and Turkish rule, Anopolis played a significant role in revolutionary actions. It is also the birthplace of Ioannis Daskalogiannis, a freedom fighter whose statue stands proudly in the village centre. Visitors can rent rooms and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at the local tavern.
Anopolis is a must-visit destination for its stunning vistas and opportunities to explore the majestic White Mountains. One of the most remarkable hikes is the five-hour trek through Aradena’s ravine, which culminates in the beautiful Marmara beach. The village is often referred to as “Upper City” and has a charming centrepoint around a small roundabout.
Overall, Anopolis is a quaint and historic village that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Crete’s natural landscape and learn about its rich cultural heritage.
Anopolis village Map
Uncover Anopolis village is located at Anopolis village & plateau, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Anopolis located?Anopolis is a small village located 12 km west of Sfakia, at 600 m above sea level.What is the history of Anopolis?Anopolis was once a vast city that flourished around the 3rd century BC, and its port was known as Phoenix (Loutro). It belonged to an alliance of thirty cities and towns that formed a peace agreement with Eumenes B' in 183 BC. During the rule of both Venetians and Turks, Anopolis was an essential site for revolutionary actions.Who is Ioannis Daskalogiannis?Ioannis Daskalogiannis was a freedom fighter born in Anopolis. His statue now stands in the middle of the village as a reminder to its citizens of their hard-fought liberation.What can visitors do in Anopolis?Visitors can explore the village, rent rooms, and dine at a tavern. They can also go on hikes in the majestic White Mountains, with one of the most remarkable hikes being descending through Aradena's ravine all the way down to Marmara beach - a five-hour trek that leads adventurers through an awe-inspiring ravine and culminates with a stunning shoreline.What is the layout of Anopolis?Anopolis is an extensive village, with most of its homes situated along its main street. There is a charming center point around a small roundabout.
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