OURANOPOLI
Ouranoupoli, 147 km from Thessaloniki, was founded by refugees from Asia Minor and is Mt Athos' main port. It's the last town on secular Mt Athos before one reaches the monastic republic. It is home to around 780 people and known for its sandy beaches.
The Prosforia fortress, thought to have been built around 1344, is one of the most significant sights in the town. A stellar example of monastery architecture, it is the largest such structure in the prefecture and the best preserved.
A small chapel dedicated to St Constantine and Helen is located beneath it. The 13th century Fragokastro castle is situated 3 km east of the village. Goat hair is used by the local womenfolk to make carpets featuring Byzantine designs and these are sold here, as are handicrafts fashioned by Mt Athos monks.
Boats leave daily for tours around Mt Athos, allowing views of the monasteries. Vessels also operate between the village and Chalkidiki's only inhabited island, that of Ammouliani.
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OURANOPOLI
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OURANOPOLI
