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Was a major ancient Thracian port city and home to the philosophers Democritus and Protagoras. However, it lost its importance in Roman times. The reason for the settlement of this area was, on the one hand, the strategically important location on the Via Egnatia, the most important trade route from Rome to Constantinople until Roman times. The city was also on the important shipping route to the Black Sea: the Roman Empire obtained part of its grain from what is now Ukraine. On the other hand, the Thracian hinterland contributed to the prosperity of the colonists and the city of Abdera with fertile arable and pasture land, rich forest in the valleys of the Nestos and its tributaries, fish-rich waters and precious metal deposits in the mountains. Today there are some must-see ruins and an archaeological museum in the modern village of Avdira. In addition, the nearby beaches are among the best in the region.
The museum is housed in two three-story buildings, built next to each other and dating back to 1860. They were the private residence of two tobacco tradesmen and still have their inside walls decorated by remarkable paintings.
Xanthi is famous for its old town with many pubs and restaurants. A walk through the old town combined with pub visits along the streets or in the backyards is a really worthwhile experience. Once a year, in the end of summer, the Old town Festival takes place, with music, food and drinks everywhere along the old streets.
Ιερά Μόνη Παμμεγίστων Ταξιαρχών
The Byzantine castle ruins are uphill of the Taxiarchon monastery. The drive on the dirt track is worthwhile because of a small chapel on the hill, above the ruins. The view of the surroundings is more beautiful than the ruins itself.
Ι.Μ. Παναγίας Αρχαγγελιώτισσας