Ouranoupoli Tower

The tower of Ouranoupoli (Prosforion Tower) is a Byzantine defensive tower in Ouranoupoli, Halkidiki, northern Greece, the starting point for trips to the monastic republic of Mount Athos. Dating varies from the 12th to the 14th century depending on the source; Wikipedia gives the 13th century under Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos. The tower belonged to Vatopedi Monastery.

In the 20th century Sydney and Joice Loch lived in the tower; they helped refugees from Asia Minor and ran a carpet-weaving business that gave many locals work. According to Visit Central Macedonia the tower has been a museum since 2005, with two Corinthian bronze helmets of the 6th century BC from Mount Athos and a section on the Lochs. Access and hours are reported inconsistently: Fodor's lists a 2-euro entry and closure on Tuesdays and from November to March, while Lonely Planet describes the tower as closed to visitors.

In summer, boat trips along the Athos coast leave from the village. Women may join, because the boats may not come closer than 500 metres to the shore. Check opening hours and boat timetables in advance.