Nea Alikarnassos, the cradle of the bustling weekly Tuesday market, is seeing plans for a significant shake-up. Soon, this hive of stalls and sellers will leave the familiar streets of Anapafseos and Anagenniseos behind, trading chaos for a purpose-built zone near Stadium and Mikras Asias streets. Yes, the same vibrant corner of the neighbourhood where you once searched for parking now promises a more organised future. The move comes courtesy of a unanimously approved recommendation by the Municipal Council, finally wrapping up tension-filled debates dating back years.
Fret not for anyone clutching pearls over market day memories being paved over. This newly appointed area, complete with dual fencing—because one clearly wouldn’t do—claims to address all those oh-so-demanding requests raised by the police. Security risks? Solved. Access issues? What access issues?
From Controversy to Consensus
Behind closed council doors (figuratively speaking, they love a good debate), this relocation wasn’t birthed without a little political tango. During discussions with high-ranking governmental figures in late January, Heraklion’s Mayor, Alexis Kalokairinos, didn’t hold back. He dismissed what he described as dubious police concerns over safety and operability at the current location. In his words, every objection “lacked any solid foundation”. Naturally.
The Mayor proposed redesigning the venue as part of a broader commitment to local logistics. For added forward-thinking flair, extra fencing was tacked onto the plans to pacify anyone still unconvinced. It was all part of a long-term appeal for community approval, though let’s not assume the whole neighbourhood was popping champagne.
To Summarise:
- The market on Anapafseos and Anagenniseos streets will relocate.
- The new site is near Stadium and Mikras Asias Streets.
- The space promises better organisation, safety, and security measures.
- The decision followed unanimous votes from both the Municipal and Local Councils.
- Mayor Kalokairinos championed the move while challenging safety concerns.
Enthusiasts and casual tourists should come prepared to navigate this latest twist in the Nea Alikarnassos saga. Frustrated long-time vendors and eager shoppers won’t precisely disappear overnight, but they might enjoy arguing over slightly smoother paving stones.
See the official press release for the Greek gripping details on this market drama.
