AFANDOU MUNICIPALITY

Afandou, Kolymbia and Archipolion the Eastern part of the island.

The village of Afandou is one of the largest villages of Rhodes, surrounded by verdant hills, lying south of the capital of the island. The name Afandou is believed to have come from the word “afando” meaning invisible; this is due to the fact that it was built out of sight from the sea, in order to be unnoticed by the pirates. A lovely square can be found in the heart of the village, surrounded by cafes and bars. A good selection of taverns, restaurants and shops is also available. Various accommodations of all categories can also be found in Afandou as well as a golf course. Afandou village is Rhodes's centre for carpet-making and a lot of

Kolymbia beach

shops are offering the possibility to buy one of these high-quality and fine carpets. The reason of the popularity of the village is the fact that it is located only a kilometre from a beach of the same name which is a pure marvel combining sand and pebbles along with crystalline waters; this long beach (over 4 kilometres) has been awarded by the EU Blue Flag for its cleanliness. The Church of Our Lady Katholiki (Catholic) is also

worth-seeing for the beautiful 17th and 18th century frescoes it houses.

The road from the beautiful sea resort of Kolymbia to the interior, crosses the woods along the Loutani river and leads to Archipoli a picturesque agricultural village. The route is ideal for walking or biking. Just before the village if you go in the pine woods you will find the Monastery of St. Nektarios. The places that one can visit in the Municipality of Afandou are:

1. The Church of Panaghia Katholiki on Afandou beach with 13 century frescoes.

2. The Carnival practices and traditions revive every year in Afandou.

3. The coastal village of Kolymbia with its well organized beach.