Mount Athos
Mount Athos has been the most significant hub of Orthodox monasticism and one of the top global heritage sites since the end of the 10th century.
It is located on Halkidiki’s third peninsula, projecting 45 kilometres into the Aegean Sea with a width of 5-10 kilometres, and it takes its name from the mountain’s namesake summit (Mount Athos 2,033 metres), which dominates this rocky strip of land.
Any Greek or foreign Orthodox Christian wishing to visit Mount Athos must first contact the Pilgrim Bureau in Thessaloniki (tel. (++30) 2310 833 733) or Ouranoupoli, Halkidiki (tel. (++30) 23770 71 423) for a Diamoneterion (visitation permission) valid for four calendar days.
The Sanctuary of Zeus Ammon
The Dionysus Sanctuary was built by Euboean, who lived in Afitis, in the second half of the eighth century B.C. and was worshipped with the Nymphs in the cave under the rock on the site’s southwest side.
On a small plateau on the site’s northern side, the Egyptian god Zeus Ammon’s shrine was built.
In the late 5th century B.C., an altar was constructed, but in the second half of the 4th century, a Doric temple with stone entablature (superstructure) was built next to it.
Folklore Museum of Polichrono
The Polichrono Halkidiki Cultural Association established the Folklore Museum in 2014.
It’s close to the community office and behind St. Athanasios Church.
The museum strives to preserve the village’s cultural and intellectual legacy by holding an exhibition of bread-making instruments, equipment, and utensils, as well as beekeeping and woodworking items.
Instruments made of textiles, daily household items and utensils, and traditional costumes are also on display.