Friday, March 13, 2015

The little town of Galaxidi, not far from Athens is ideal for a short break from the city and a chance to time travel to the past. It is no coincidence that the town and its traditional buildings have been used as a set for films and TV series with story backgrounds set in the 1900s.

Formerly a commercial port, Galaxidi was in its heyday in the 19th century, thanks to its maritime tradition. Shipping activities helped the town thrive and the wealth generated contributed to the country’s independence against the Ottoman Empire.

The Nautical Museum of Galaxidi is an elegant reminder of the town’s past glory. Thanks to its well-preserved architecture and picturesque beach, the town eventually became a tourist destination.

At carnival season, it becomes a tourist attraction for an additional reason: locals and guests revive the centuries-old custom of flour fighting (nowadays spectacularly colourful with the aid of harmless paint). This ritual used to be performed as a sendoff gesture every March, when the wind was right for seamen to set sail.
See also: Photo Gallery & Visit Greece-Galaxidi