Through the stunning mountainous landscapes of Fokida one reaches a town with a feel of posh, tradition, and naval history: the picturesque pride and joy of the southern coasts of central Greece, i.e. Galaxidi.Brave seamen used to sail around the Mediterranean Sea to seek refuge in the two natural ports of the little town, Agora and Chirolakas. The naval and the folklore museums bear witness to the history of Galaxidi.Captains’ mansions and cobbled narrow streets call for and guarantee a relaxing stroll. Traditional architectural elements conjure up narrations of the old times: colourful facades, marble arches around the gates, yards with flowers and pebbles, and stone balconies decorated with figureheads. The town hall, housed in the Tsalaggyras mansion, the Folk Art Museum, housed in Aggelis mansion, the Girls’ School, and the Mpourzeiko mansion, are some of the best preserved old buildings. As for ancient monuments, you will find them at the park of the town: the tomb of king Locros and the remnants of the walls of ancient Oianthi. Through the five traditional squares, you will get to the highest point in town to visit the church of Agios Nikolaos with its wood-carved icon screen, its two bell towers and its imposing dome. It is one of the prominent religious spots of Galaxidi, with the church of Agia Paraskevi being the other. Visit it to marvel at the sun clock in its yard and the zodiac circle drawn on its floor of 1911.On the right side of the port, visit the verdant area of Pera Panta, take in the panorama of the little town, and blow your camera with photos! Walking in nature will whet your appetite for seafood. The nearby Oianthi beach is densely inhabited by restaurants. Among the local specialties, don’t miss ravani, a kind of syrup cake. Keep in mind that one of the greatest assets of the little town is its proximity to the unique archaeological site of Delphi.

When you arrive in Galaxidi, the first thing that strikes you is the quiet. The road into this picturesque coastal village at the foot of Mount Parnassos leads you to Nikolaos Mamas Square – named after a sea captain and local benefactor – and the main port.

he fresh sea breeze, the cafes and tavernas lined up in a row, the fishing boats and yachts tied up in the marina, the people strolling on Pera Panta Hill and the beautifully renovated stately homes – once the residences of respected sea captains – comprise a setting that is reminiscent of the castle town of Nafplio in the Peloponnese, but with a more tranquil and less commercialized character.

Walking up main Iroon Street, I steal a peek through the odd gate to admire pretty, colorfully paved courtyards, while soft music emanates from one of the neoclassical homes along the strip. I push aside my envy of the people who get to live in such beautiful homes and make my way to the Nautical Museum of Galaxidi. This museum, although small, has a respectable collection of antique weapons and stamps, as well as artifacts salvaged from wrecks, and serves as an excellent introduction to Galaxidi.

In the same neighborhood, which is one of the oldest quarters of the village, the Church of Aghios Nikolaos boasts an exquisite iconostasis dedicated to the church’s namesake, the patron saint of sailors. On the same road, another church – that of Aghia Paraskevi, features something rare for a Christian temple: a depiction of the zodiac calendar on its marble floor.