The Achrian Temenos of Xanthi

Hidden among the narrow alleys, the Achrian Mosque was founded in the 16th century in the neighborhood of the same name within the Old Town of Xanthi. The name is derived from Achrianes (or Pomaks), a population that is said to have inhabited the mountainous area of Rhodope and to have moved to the area of Xanthi during that era. To this day, this neighborhood is mainly inhabited by Pomaks. The mosque’s imposing minaret, accompanied by an adjacent cypress tree, serve as timeless landmarks on Xanthi’s skyline.

Creator: Unknown (1936)
Source: Dimitris Mavridis private collection