Sightseeing in Halkidiki
There are several places for sightseeing in Halkidiki if you’re interested in doing something different to relaxing, swimming and sunbathing all day long!
Several archaeological sites in Halkidiki are of great interest and definitely worth visiting.
• Mount Athos
The Cave of Petralona is one of the most impressive caves in Europe and a great place for sightseeing in Halkidiki. Findings indicate that Halkidiki has been inhabited since the Stone Age! More specifically, a human skull was found, which is generally believed to be 700,000 years old – in other words, it is the skull of the oldest European! Visit the cave and admire the labyrinthine interior with its stalactites and stalagmites.
• The Cave of Petrálona
Mount Athos is a self-governed part of the Greek State, famous for its old Byzantine monasteries. Seemingly untouched by time, they stand proudly as one of the most important sites for the Orthodox faith. We would suggest that all men (sorry, no women allowed) should visit this unique place in Halkidiki to feel the serenity, wisdom and spirituality of faith. You can also go on a cruise around the peninsula, a great activity for the whole family!
The Anthropological Museum of Petralona is located in close distance to the cave. It hosts a representation of the cave and houses items found inside, like tools, fossils, fire traces and others.
• Ancient Olynthus
Visit Ancient Olynthus, a well-preserved Greek city from the Classical Period. Here you can admire the oldest known Greek mosaic flooring, a forerunner of the stunning mosaics of Dion, Aigai and Pella. This archaeological site was discovered in the 1930s and includes archaeological findings of Ancient Olynthos, which used to be the capital of Halkidiki for a while in the antiquity.
The Archaeological Museum of Olynthos is located right next to the ancient site and includes findings of the excavations. There is also a room dedicated to the restoration process and life in Ancient Olynthos, overall a great Halkidiki sightseeing experience.
• Stageira
Stágeira is the homeland of Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers and teacher of Alexander the Great, who was born here in 384 BC. The archaeological site includes an acropolis, fortifications, an ancient temple and Classical and Hellenistic homes, perfect for a daily trip to do sightseeing in Halkidiki.
The town of Olympiada, named after King Alexander’s mother, is mostly famous due to the historically significant ancient site of Stageira. Findings are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Poligiros.
• Prosforio Tower
This Byzantine tower is the symbol of Ouranoupolis, a village of Halkidiki. Standing at the edge of the beach, it has suffered much damage through centuries. It was built in the 14th century, apparently before 1344. by monks of the Vatopedi Abbey in Mount Athos, to protect the area from enemy invasions.
• Folklore Museum of Poligiros
The Folklore Museum of Poligiros is housed in an elegant mansion in the center of the city and its another great place to explore while doing sightseeing in Halkidiki. It houses old furniture, agricultural tools, jewelry, traditional costumes, photographs and other items. All exhibits were donated by the residents of Poligiros.
• Folklore Museum in Afitos
The museum was established in 1980 by Nikos Paralis and the local Folklore Club. It is housed in a traditional stone building from the 19th century donated by Alevras family. Most of the exhibits were also donated by the villagers and includes daily utensils, tools of traditional jobs (beekeeper, winemaker, fisher, carpenter and other professions), old costumes and photographs. The museum also hosts works of the sculptor Vassilis Pavlis. In summer, there are also art and photography exhibitions. Stone and wood dominate the interior decoration of the museum, like most traditional mansions of Halkidiki. Perfect for sightseeing while visiting Afitos for a lovely evening walk.
