Xanthi

About

Likely dating back to the first century BC, Xanthi’s history was fraught with war and disaster, which inhibited the town’s growth until the 18th century when it’s tobacco industry gained renown. Today, the Old Town is filled with the merchants’ mansions, which are a marvelous blend of Byzantine and neo-Classical styles. To get a closer look at the area’s rich history, visitors can head to one of Xanthi’s many museums, including the Folk Art Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Municipal Gallery. Throughout the year, the city also hosts cultural events, from the flea market every Saturday, to the Carnival of Xanthi, which kicks of the year with an explosion of color.