Anoghi
Anoghi means "upper land". Situated at an altitude
of about 500 m., it is the highest of all the villages on the
island. There are two possible ways to reach Anoghi; following
the route from Vathy, turning at Agros and passing Kathara,
a total distance of 19 km., or taking the road from Stavros
which is 5 km away. Both ways have a scenic drive. Traveling
from Stavros, allows an excellent view overlooking a large part
of almost all of its villages.
The route from Agros, winds around the mountainous area of enormous
rocks with an endless number of shapes creating an unusual atmosphere
which only olive trees,a few vineyards and the aerial view of
the eastern coast of the island, refutes that this area is another
planet.
Anoghi is one of the very old villages of the island with
its elevation being a safe refuge from pirates,it was established
sometime during the Middle Ages. After the 16th century, part
of the population moved down by the coast either to the area
of Stavros or to the sea-shore of Kioni, which is about a
two hour walk away following a path. Just above Anoghi are
the ruins of the old village which were built very close to
each other indicating that the people were from the same origin.
 The
huge blocks of rock are a remarkable sight to regard, especially
the rock Irakles (Hercules) which is east of the village,
standing 8 m. high and full of symmetrical furrows on its
surface it gives the impression of an artist's sculpture.
The population of Anoghi remained over 1000 until the end
of the 19th century but now has gone well below 100 residents
with their main activities being cultivation and some stock-breeding.
Since the roads were only recently constructed, the village
was somewhat isolated from the rest of the island, consequently
the Venetians greatly influenced the population of Anoghi
more than the other villages of Ithaca.
The customs and dialect remained distinctive until recent
years and the Carnival was celebrated in the Venetian tradition.
 The
church of Panaghia was first built in the Byzantine years
but the interesting frescoes were painted in different time
periods since the church was damaged several times by earthquakes
and rebuilt. According to hearsay, during the Middle-Ages,
around the church was a cemetery which was directly above
an ancient one. Also said, at this location was the temple
of the Goddess Hera.
There are very few rooms to let in Anoghi and food is available
in the only coffee-house of the village.
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