What I can see

Mikrolimano is the first marina encountered after the Peace and Friendship Stadium (SEF) when heading to Piraeus. Kastella is now considered the part of the hill that grows above Mikrolimano. In the upper part of the slope, neoclassic and eclectic villas are located, and as we head down to Mikrolimano we can identify refugee houses of Asia Minor and homes of the first Cretans who settled in Piraeus (Kritika). The narrow, picturesque streets and the distinctive architecture are reminiscent of an insular landscape. Mikrolimano is famous for its cafes and restaurants next to the sea. There are also a number of bars and clubs with mainly mainstream music.

What I can't see

Turkolimano (as its name was in the past and means Turkish port) with its picturesque fishing boats, had attracted Greek directors and tourist agents. It became internationally known thanks to the movie “Stella” by Michalis Cacoyannis with Melina Merkouri. Later, the military dictatorship renamed it to “Mikrolimano”, as part of the “ethnic cleansing” of place names. In the upper parts of the hill of Kastella are more cafes and restaurants, which offer panoramic views of Athens and its coastline and beaches. It is however not necessary to eat or drink in one of these establishments to enjoy this view. There are many openings in several parts of the streets where one can sit and admire the Attic landscape. Besides, it’s not for nothing that Kastella is called the  “balcony of Piraeus” …

Info

• Address: Koumoundourou coast

Bibliography