Skridlof street, best known as Stivanadika, is located in Chania Old Town. This pedestrian street nowadays was known as the street of the στιβανάδων (stivanadon – the Stivania); who were the makers of the traditional Cretan boots and other regional men’s outfits.
Skridlof Street, a Very Special Place
When people talk about the beauty of Chania Town, they usually mean the beauty of its Old Town; whether you’ve chosen to pursue accommodations within its fortified walls or not, any visit to the city should start here. Seek out the streets of Halidon and Skridlof with their elegant shops to get a sense of the city’s blinding lights.
A stone’s throw from Halidon is Skridlof Street with its leather goods and regional men’s outfits shops, including the few remaining stivanadika where old craftsmen still make the traditional Cretan boots and “stivania”, the peculiar Cretan boots but also wonderful sandals, belts, wallets, and bags.
It is here, where almost a century ago, that special craft that the locals inherited from the Arabs took the form of belts, bags, and shoes. Today, a strong smell of leather still lingers along this pedestrian street; attracting large crowds of locals and tourists. This street is open all year round but especially comes alive in the tourist season.
Here, you will also find other things to buy, such as handicrafts, souvenirs, watches, and jewelry. Moreover, on the same street, there are many shops that sell Cretan ornaments, souvenirs, and some handmade embroideries. Prices are not rock-bottom prices these days but you will still find good quality and fair-priced leather products. The street also has jewelry shops, and shops which sell Cretan ornaments, souvenirs, and some handmade embroideries.
