Discover the most beautiful places to visit in Greece

PELOPONNESE

A destination for all seasons, Peloponnese has won, thanks to the changes of the landscape and its historical wealth, the bet with every kind of traveler and in recent years is on a growth trajectory. From the rising west coasts of Ilia and Messinia, which have become a destination for luxurious summer relaxation holidays, to popular mountain destinations such as Kalavrita and mountainous Arcadia, the travel profile of the Peloponnese is multidimensional and all-weather.

Important archeological sites (Ancient Olympia, Mycenae), atmospheric old cities (Nafplio, Monemvasia, Pylos), living capitals of prefectures (Patra, Kalamata), with festivals and cultural activities, stone-built villages, unique on the road routes, mountains, mountains and beaches are poles of attraction for short getaways, vacations and specialized trips that cover all styles and budgets.

The hotel development follows more or less the profile of each area: resorts in Loutraki, on the beaches of Ilia, Messinia and Achaia, atmospheric hostels in historic buildings in Mani, Monemvasia, but also in the villages of mountainous Arcadia, chalet with fireplace and mountain hotels in the ski resort of Kalavrita, city hotels in the provincial cities, such as Sparta and Tripoli, mountain shelters and forest villages in Parnonas and Taygetos. Rustic local flavors dominate the village taverns, while the most sophisticated proposals and nightlife are concentrated mainly in the cities and in the most stylish seaside resorts.

MONEMVASIA

Within the medieval walls of Monemvasia in Peloponesse Greece, is one of the most well-preserved and vibrant castle cities in Greece, which attracts fanatical visitors all year round. Dozens of churches, mansions of wealthy merchants, fountains, Turkish baths and winding cobbled streets are kept in remarkably good condition, preserving the atmosphere of this settlement, which from the Byzantine years to the 19th century played an important role in the history of the region.

There is no car inside the castle, so get ready for a walk. The main cobbled path that starts from the gate of the Castle leads you to the most important sights but also to the restaurants, bars and shops that are gathered along it. From the central square with the cannon, the church of the Dragged Christ and the Archaeological Museum begins the cobbled path to the Upper Castle or Goula, the second settlement. It is worth the uphill between the pomegranates and the date palms and only for the view from the walls of the Upper Castle, in front of the imposing church of Agia Sofia, but unfortunately at the moment the Upper Castle is closed for maintenance.

The hotels inside the Castle are small hostels housed in old, listed buildings. The new town, Gefyra, is no different from any newly built seaside resort, except perhaps for the fact that it offers views of the Castle. You will find everything: hotels, taverns, shops, patisseries, banks. Its sandy beach is very popular.
When to goWhen to go
Monemvasia Castle never leaves the agenda of weekenders. Except in summer, however, things are more relaxed, as the large groups that come for a day trip are missing and the visitors are mainly couples. Easter has a special color.

MONEMVASIA PELOPONESSE

NAFPLION

Probably the most charming city of the Peloponnese and one of the favorite places for weekends all seasons in Greece. In the puppet old town of Nafplion, with the preserved architectural physiognomy and the two Venetian castles that crown it, Akronafplia and Palamidi, the aura of the first capital of the Greek state is diffused.

Admire the city from above by climbing the -999 according to tradition 857 according to others- steps that lead to the imposing Palamidi which stands on a huge gray rock and overlooks the sea. From Akronafplia the view of the city is equally impressive, while if you follow the pedestrian street of Arvanitia that surrounds the rock of Akronafplia, you will take an idyllic walk with the sea under your feet. In restored mansions, scattered in the old town of Nafplion, you will find beautiful guesthouses.

The core of the old town stretches behind the shores of Bouboulina and Miaouli promenades, which are full of cafe-bars and taverns with a wonderful view opposite Bourtzi, the small island with the Venetian fortress of the same name.
The main pedestrian street of King Constantine will become a reference point in every tour of the old town, as it crosses almost the entire and ends at the cobbled Syntagma Square, the meeting point that is strongly reminiscent of Italian piazza.
Here is the Archaeological Museum, the Parliament that housed the first parliament of the free Greek state and the Old Mosque.

The traditional taverns occupy the entire length of Staikopoulou Street (parallel to V. Konstantinou), at the end of which is the Kombologiou Museum. The alleys around this road offer to get lost: they are full of Turkish fountains and Turkish baths – memorabilia of Turkish rule – and historic churches. The two green parks, of Kolokotronis and OSE, which welcome visitors at the entrance of the city, are suitable for stressful walks.

NAFPLION PELOPONESSE

THESSALY GREECE

From the snowy alpine mountain peaks of Pindos to the green lacy beaches of Pelion and from the enchanting calm power of Lake Plastira in the rushing bed of Pinios and the wonder of the Thessalian plain, Meteora. It is difficult to define in a few words the tourist profile of Thessaly. In the beginning it was not Pelion. The enchanting mountain of Centaurs was due to its unsurpassed natural beauty the first opening of the area in tourism, and maintains to this day the interest undiminished all seasons, since the mountain-sea combination finds its ultimate expression here.

Second in the preferences comes the area of ​​Elati and Pertouli in the mountains of the prefecture of Trikala, with its alpine beauty being photographed against the backdrop of the beautiful mountain range of Pindos. A breath away from here, however, in the mountains of the prefecture of Karditsa, an artificial lake was destined to steal the hearts of travelers. Lake Plastira became the next highlight of Thessaly and the villages around it were filled very quickly by beautiful hostels overlooking the Agrafiotika mountains.

In recent years, on the map of Thessaly tourism, we note another area that claims its presence as an autonomous destination. They are the beaches of Larissa defined by the vast and sandy beaches of Agiokampos, Velitsa and Stomio and are crowned by the unsurpassed beauty of Kissavos. The tourist infrastructure of Thessaly, in general, is quite good, with beautiful guesthouses in the mountains and very good city hotels in Volos, Larissa, Karditsa and Trikala.

METEORA THESSALY GREECE

KERKINI LAKE SERRES

The beautiful artificial lake in the northwestern part of the Prefecture of Serres has become a destination for alternative tourism, while important infrastructure has been created in the villages of Lithotopos and Kerkini. It is considered an important wetland, as thousands of species of flora and fauna are to be found here.

In fact, special offices organize boating with the so-called “blavas”, which sail even in 10 points of water. You can also go kayaking, horseback riding, cycling on selected routes, hiking on the shores – only during the period when the lake is low, ie from autumn to spring – and jeep routes. Over 620 species of plants have been recorded in the coastal forest and it is an important breeding ground for aquatic birds, including endangered species (eg silver pelican, rose pelican, lagona, night crow, spoonbill, black stork, egret), while at its extremities the largest number of water buffalo in Greece.

Also, the area of ​​almost 7 sq.km. lake offers shelter for more than 30 species of fish (carp, carp, eel, butterfly, gull). Ano and Kato Poria are the liveliest villages in the area, with uphill streets, taverns and cafes in the squares with the plane trees but also cool streams that descend with momentum from the mountain – with the first being the starting point of hiking and mountaineering routes on the mountain Troubles.

The village of Lithotopos is located next to the dam, at the foot of Krousia and next to Strymonas, offers a fascinating view of the lake and has tourist infrastructure as well as offices that organize various activities. The village of Kerkini, again, with the red tiles on the roofs, the storks’ nests and the closed dams in its picturesque port is the seat of the Wetland Information Center.

KERKINI LAKE

ZAGORI PAPIGO EPIRUS

The two famous villagges of Zagori, Big and Small Papigo, at an altitude of 980 m. The first and 1,040 m. The second, with only 4 km distance between them. With the imposing Astraka mountain embracing them like a guardian angel and natural swimming pools, Ovires Rogovo, ideal for diving between smooth slate slabs, the scenery is special all year round and one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

The image is completed by well-preserved stone buildings of traditional Zagorian architecture and cobbled streets that lead to chapels and fountains.
Megalo Papigo, one of the most beautiful traditional settlements in the country, is the most developed, with many options for accommodation, food, coffee and drink, and attracts many travelers, from nature lovers and families to couples and groups.

In Mikro Papigo the car stops at the entrance of the village and the hiking routes start leading to Drakolimni (Dragon Lake) inTymfi mountain. Those who love tranquility will prefer it, as it also has some beautiful hostels. It is necessary to visit the WWF Information Center that operates in the village.
When to go: Autumn and spring are the most beautiful seasons. In September and October, the months when birds migrate and fanatical bird watchers gather here.

DRAGON LAKE TYMFI MOUNTAIN GREECE

PRESPES LAKES NORTHERN GREECE

At the borders of Greece with Albania and North Macedonia, the Prespa National Park is a timeless travel destination for nature lovers. In Mikri Prespa lake there are two islands: Agios Achilleios, which you will reach via a floating footbridge, and Vidronisi or Vitrinetsi. Herons, cormorants and rare species of pelicans (such as the silver pelican) will fascinate fans of bird watching, while it is worth taking a boat trip to the caves with the Byzantine hermitages.

In Megali Prespa lake, again, the traffic is divided between the lakeside fishermen and the mountainous Agios Germanos. In Psarades you will enjoy a lake carp by the shores, while in Agios Germanos you will stay in traditional hostels and eat in nice taverns by the river.

When to go: In the spring to meet migratory birds and see the wetlands, where water buffalo graze, but also the green st.Achilles. In the summer to swim at Kula beach in Megali Prespa and see the dozens of blooming water lilies of Mikri prespa. In autumn to enjoy nature walks and in winter to combine a ski trip at the Vigla-Pisoderio Ski Center.

LAKE OF PRESPES

THE AGRAFA VILLAGES IN EVRITANIA GREECE

In South Pindos, the area of ​​Agrafa full of pristine routes is one of the last strongholds of the nature lovers. The best way to get to know it is by 4×4 or on foot. We do not know if Agrafa really took its name from the time of the Byzantine Empire when due to the location and character of the inhabitants the collection of taxes was impossible with the result that the area is not recorded in official documents.

What is certain is that even today you have to cross a wild landscape in the valley of the Agrafiotis river and drive on a dirt road to get here; the village of Agrafa is 90 km from Karpenisi, of which the last 26, from the village Krenti and then it is dirt road. Beyond that, however, lies the real challenge that can be enjoyed by those who have a 4×4 and definitely hikers.

The area does not have the tourist development of the rest of Evritania. It has a few but decent hostels and remains an attraction for climbers and lovers of alternative tourism who enjoy rafting in Tavropos and kayaking on the artificial Lake Kremasta. The village of Agrafa dominates the area, it is the largest, with hostels, taverns and cafes.

From here leaves a road that connects Evritania with Lake Plastira. Each of the small villages has its own history and the locals will be happy to tell it to you while drinking a tsipouro in the cafes: Marathos with the stone-built church of Taxiarches of the 16th century, Epiniana an ideal starting point for mountaineering routes, Tridentro, built on the right bank of the river Agrafiotis with a plane tree-natural monument, Trovato with the small church of Ag. Dimitrios build in 1641, Braggiana with the School that operated until 1662 and Monastiraki with the churches of Panagiaand Agios Dimitrios.
When to go : Definitely before the rains start. From May to August is an ideal time to combine your excursion with alternative activities.

AGRAFA VILLAGES EVRYTANIA GREECE

ELAFONISOS

The beach of Simos is perhaps the only, but by no means insignificant reason to cross the laconic land with the final destination being the small island at the southeastern tip of the Peloponnese. This exotic strip of land with its turquoise waters, white dunes and cedars has sworn fans flooding the exemplary beach campsite every summer and they are definitely annoyed by the ever-increasing sun loungers or the big nightclub that has been operating in recent years in Simos.

The truth is that this island of 19 sq.km. seems not to like a lot of fuss. Besides, here you will come for heavenly baths and a walk in the picturesque port, which is the only organized settlement, with the beautiful beach and the colorful boats that supply the few taverns with fresh seafood. In its center a small peninsula is formed where the church of Agios Spyridon dominates, a favorite place for hang-out of the younger ones who, when it gets dark, go there with beers and even your laptop, since the place provides free wi-fi. Few hotels and rooms for rent are offered for your stay in case you do not like camping, while remember to have enough cash because the only ATM on the island may not work when you need it.

ELAFONISOS

ELATOCHORI PIERIA GREECE

Perched in eastern Pieria, it is today a complete tourist resort, ideal for excursions all year round. In winter snow lovers will find one of the most beautiful small ski resorts in Greece just 8 km away, in spring nature lovers gather here due to the wonderful nature, while in summer it is always cool due to altitude and at the same time very close to the coast of Pieria .

The lush forest that surrounds it and the abundant view of Mount Olympus act as a magnet for visitors, both for those who seek relaxation close to nature and for those who love adventure, since – in addition to winter sports – has many hiking trails. and mountain biking as well as forest roads for exploring with 4×4 cars. The village, which is built at an altitude of 800 m, is divided into two settlements, Paleo and Neo Elatochori.

The first is experiencing remarkable tourist development, with well-kept stone guesthouses, modern and luxurious mountain resorts, rooms to let, taverns, cafes and stylish bars. Finally, it is worth visiting the historic church of Agios Nikolaos with its magnificent wood-carved iconostasis and ornate paintings.

VILLAGE OF ELATOCHORI

Archaeological sites in Greece

Acropolis

The Acropolis along with Parthenon dominate the modern architectural imitations. From all parts of Athens, the white marble monument stands out under the light against the blue sky of Attica.
The visitor feels emotional contact with the full expression of the architectural contribution of the ancient Greeks to this domain of art.
The monument on the Sacred Rock, whose highest point is 156 meters above sea level, is the work of the Golden Age of Pericles, a period when the world’s greatest sculptors and architects of all time lived. Phidias, Mnisicles, Iktinos and kallicrates are the names behind the creation of this wonder that shone like the sun through centurys.

Ancient Agora of Athens

Agora was the core of ancient Athens, an open space, that was the core of political, commercial, administrative and social activities for centuries. People, argued and listened to philosophers here. The area was finally abandoned in the 6th century only to be rediscovered as a residential area in the 19th century. Even now in ruins, there is much to see and learn. Visit the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Altar of the twelve gods.

Delphi

Located about a hundred miles northwest of Athens, Delphi is considered by archaeologists to be one of Greece’s hugest cultural treasures. The complex includes the Temple of Apollo (home of the famous oracle), the sacred Corycian Cave and the Castalian Spring. In mythology, Delphi was considered the center of the world or “Navel of the Earth”. Legend has it that the sanctuary was originally guarded by the female dragon Pytho, who was eventually killed by Apollo. Leave at least half a day to visit the site.

Epidaurus

Epidaurus is a spiritual place worth traveling around the world to visit. Epidaurus was built around the 3rd century BC. and is adorned with a variety of buildings most famous is the ancient theater of Epidaurus. This is one of the few theaters that retains its original circular “Orchestra”, and it is a rear aesthetic sight.

Mycenae
Mycenae were the legendary home of Agamemnon the victor of the Trojan War. Situated on the lower slopes of a hill near Argos. Mycenae has been inhabited since about 4000 BC and civilization flourished there until about 1350-1200 BC. The ruins of the earliest Mycenae palace are located near the center of today’s modern Mycenae. The citadel housing the ruins of the palace, royal tombs, cyclopean walls and the tomb of the Greek hero Agamemnon. The sights of this old town are simply stunning.

Olympia

Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese and was the site of the first Olympic Games. Every four years, sports competitions were held at Olympia to honor Zeus. Games began in 776 BC. and continued until the 5th century BC. There is a lot to see in Olympia with some of the most important monuments of the place, including the Temple of Zeus, The Temple of Hera, the Stadium, the Bouleuterion where athletes were sworn, the Prytaneion (the site of the eternal flame) the Gymnasium and Leonidaion (a guest house dating from 330 BC). The Archaeological Museum at Olympia contains some very interesting exhibits

MACEDONIA

Apart from the capital of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, there are many beautiful cities and sights to see in Macedonia, some of the most importent are listed here.
Kastoria built on the banks of Lake Orestiada, with its narrow streets pulsating with life, its old wooden houses and mansions, and its fur factories and workshops. its particularly beautiful in the spring and fall.
Florina. a pretty town, spread out on the slopes of a hill covered with wild chestnut trees, is a good starting point for a visit to the wildlife sanctuary at Prespa.
Mikri and Megali Prespa lakes. Situated at analtitude of 850 metres. these two lakes are separated by a narrow strip of land The banks of Mikri(Small) Prespa are thick with reeds, an ideal cover for the numerous species of birds that nest there every year.
In the middle of the lake floats the islet of Agios Ahilios with ancient and Byzantine remains. Its rocky coast contains caves with shrines and religious paintings.

On the coast of Megali (Great) Prespa, which varies between being steep and rocky and serene and lush, there is a picturesque little village called Psarades, looking as though it belonged on an Aegean island. Here and on Agios Germanos, where there is a Byzantine church dedicated to that saint, you will find tavernas serving fish caught in the lakes.
Using Grevena, a small town built on the banks of two small rivers, as a base, you can visit the exquisite Greveniot Pindos mountains, its villages of Deskati, Zakas, Kipourio, Samarina and the gorge and caves on Mt. Orliaka. But the district is undeveloped, for nature lovers only.

Kozani. Situated 15 kilometres above the banks of the Aliakmon river at an altitude of 710 metres, Kozani is the capital of the homonymous prefecture. During the Turkish occupation it developed into an important commercial centre. Today, unfortunately, few traces are left of its old appearance.
Siatista, another town that prospered under the Turks, lies 28 kilometres southwest of Kozani. Several stately homes from that period with interior decoration, carved wooden ceilings, stained glass windows and large fireplaces, are still standing today. Siatista is another centre of the fur industry.
Velvendos, 30 kilometres southeast of Kozani, is a market town that was founded and thrived during the Turkish occupation. Its traditional houses are built in a wooded area dense with plane trees, peach trees, poplars and cob nut trees near the Aliakmon river.

Edessa , one of the most beautiful towns in Macedonia, is renowned for its cataracts and its cherries. Formerly named Vodena, it is bedecked with trees and flower gardens.

Arnissa , 27 km. west of Edessa, sits on the banks of Lake Vegoritis, where you will find sandy beaches and clear water for a swim and little tavernas for a snack.

Veria , is a primarily agricultural town set in the foothills of Mt. Vermion. The capital of Imathia prefecture, it was founded around the late 5th or early 4th century BC. Under Diocletian it became one of the capitals of Macedonia, evolving into an important centre during the Byzantine era.
Panagia Soumela constructed by refugees from the Black Sea. In the winter, the village is frequently cut off by heavy snowfalls.

Kato Vermio. 26 km. west of Veria at an altitude of 1,400 metres, is only one κilometre away from the Seli ski centre.
Further to the southeast lies the region of Pieria. whose capital is Katerini , an area known for its delightful mountains and splendid beaches The beaches of Katerini (Paralia). Leptoκa, a Makrigialos and Skotina are lined with trees a sparkling water. Their facilities are amp equipped to welcome travellers. Further south is_ Platamonas with its enormous beach and its 13th century Frankish castle overlooking the sea. Those interested in mountain climbing will set out from Litohoro, 24 km. south of Katerini, to conquer legendary Mt. Olympos.

Vergina. Diggings over the years unearthed three very important tombs, believed to be royal. The most important one, is believed to be that of Philip II of Macedonia, the father of Alexander the Great; this tends to confirm the hypothesis that Verging is the ancient Aigai, the first capital of Macedonia. The frescoes on the walls of the finds are a valuable contribution to art. Among the richest finds are two solid gold urns, golden wreaths, silver vessels, etc. These finds are in the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki.

Dion. A sacred location for the ancient Macedonians at the foot of Mt. Olympos. Two theatres, the temples of the gods, the remains of the ancient city, and a stadium stretch out in an area full of greenery.

Pella. It was founded in the 4th century B.C. to become the capital of the Macedonian state. The city was laid out in the familiar Hippodameian” pattern of regular, rectangular building blocks with impressive broad streets and a first class water supply network.

Halkidiki. Three peninsulas – Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos – make up Halkidiki. one of the loveliest and most popular districts n Macedonia.
Crystalline waters, pines reacning down to where the waves break, golden sand, remote little harbours, unexpected islets (Amoliani), olive groves, verdant valleys and forests of beech, chestnut and pine (Holomoni. P cturesque villages with houses festooned with vines and flowerpots, little towns (Poligiros: luxury hotel complexes, smaller hotels and campsites. tavernas serving the catch of the day and the monastic state of Mt. Athos. All this and more are to be found in Halkidiki.

Kilkis, is located in an area richly endowed by nature (Lake Doirani, Axios river), but because it lacks tourist facilities it attracts only those who enjoy the outdoor life.
yοu can go fishing in the Axios river or take a swim at Mouries on the beach of Lake Doirani. At Goumenissa, 44 km. from Kilkis, you can see the monastery of the Panagia, whose church gates from the 11th century.

Seres, is a pretty, lively town with wide streets and open squares. Founded in the 12th century BC by the Paiones, it was given the name of ‘Siris the Paionic” by Herodotus. The modern districts blend harmoniously with the older neighbourhoods. In the northern section on a pine-covered hill stand the remnants of the ancient acropolis and a Byzantine castle, witnesses of its age-old history. Here, too, is the Byzantine church of Agios Nikolaos.
The enormous forest of Lai-Lia, a marvellous place for excursions, lies 25 kilometres from Seres. Plane and beech trees, cedars and a spring of incomparable water are among its assets. The latter is used in the preparation of the area’s tasty loukoumia (akanes). From here the road leads to the ski slopes of Lai-Lia, where winter games are held.

Drama , capital of the prefecture of the same name, sits at the foot of Mt. Falakro, which the locals have dubbed the “mountain of flowers”. A very scenic mountain, it possesses ski slopes for winter sports fans and four well-equipped refuges.
The town, drenched in greenery and flowers and blessed with abundant water, stands detached from the valley filled with tobacco fields that spreads out at its feet.
Seventy kilometres from Drama lies the splendid forest of Elatia, consisting of pine, beech, oak and a very rare tree in Greece, the red fir, whose height may reach as much as 50 metres.

Philippi. The town was built after the victory of Octavius over the assassins of Julius Caesar in 42 B.C. Among the ruins are the city’s Agora (Forum), the theatre (4th c. B.C.), the fortified citadel belonging to the Byzantine era, the remains of two early Christian basilicas, etc.

Kavala , is a modern, commercial city that has managed to preserve intact many features of its old appearance. Its spacious squares and contemporary buildings blend graciously with the od traditional houses, the overhanging balconies, gardens and flagstoned lanes.
It is equipped with up-to-date tourist facilities, nightclubs and tavernas for a comfortable and pleasant stay.
Of particular charm is the port, teeming with countless fishing caiques, and the Byzantine castle (16th c.) which overlooks the city. Other sights worth seeing are the old city walls, the church of the Panagia (16th c.) and the arched aqueduct (also 16th c.), not to mention the lovely beaches for sun – and sea worshippers. The island of Thassos , lies only 17 kilometres southwest of Kavala.

Central and Eastern Macedonia

Potidea, Olinthos, Stagira – the birthplace of Aristotle – Amfipolis. Each town has its own history and its own ancestral glory.
Kassandra, Sithonia, Athos. The three fingers of the Halkidiki peninsula. Golden sands and pine trees growing right down to the sea. Fishing villages and old churches.
Mount Athos, the holy mountain of Orthodoxy. Forests; here and there dotted with the white of a humble skete. Monastery churches and cells, chapels and cloisters. Archways and fresco-covered walls. Treasures from imperial chrysobuls. Peace and eternity. Oaks, chestnuts, willows, olives, cypresses, plane trees, orange trees, mimosas, jujube trees. Beaches and enchanted coves.
Later on, you come to other towns and villages and again there’s the sea rimmed with lovely beaches. Then rolling plains and high mountains, lakes and turbulent rivers.
Lake Doiranis (Kilkis), shining emerald green on the mountainside.

Langadas, land of the firewalkers. They prepare themselves for days before with chants and wild music. Clutching the icon of Sts. Constantine and Helen, the Firewalkers fling themselves barefoot onto the glowing coals. They have flung themselves thus for centuries to bring us close to the Bacchae and their frenzied dances.

Next comes Kavala. The fortress on high keeps watch on the city below. Narrow lanes. Neighbourhoods with an Anatolian charm. Green grocers peddling their fruits and vegetables from a barrow.
The harbour with caciques lined up at the mole. Fishing boats, nets, baskets with hooks and lines. Sandy beaches, pebbly beaches. Deliciously tempting diaphanous water. Seaside settlements and picturesque fishing hamlets. A glass of ouzo and grilled sardines.
Partridge at mount Pangeo. and duck at Nestos river.
Seres with its ancient acropolis and Byzantine citadel. Churches and mosaic-filled monasteries.
Still lakes (Kerkini). Caves adorned with stalactites (Alistrati), wells whose praises have been sung a thousand times over iGerakinai. Mountains linked with legends.Plane trees, oaks, cedars and sparkling brooks. Here tradition has left its mark from village to village.
Women’s rule (for one day!) at Μonoklissia. fire-walking again at Agia Eleni. Dionysian revels at Gazoro.
Memories, remembrances, revivals.
And here’s another taverns for a bite of fish or game washed down with some vintage ‘tsipouro” – good to the last drop. Then ask for an “akane” a typical Macedonian sweet.
Drama. Plain and mountain. Alpine refuges and ski slopes. Glorious forests. Squadrons of birds. Fertile soil and endless tobacco fields. Caves with enormous coloured stalactites !Marai.
Rivers murmuring softly. Burbling waters.
A bewitching scene. Hospitable people with warm smiles. Kindness and consideration. Courtyard gates open wide.
Thassos. Calm sea and wooded mountains. Myths and Dionysiac passions. Tne Sanctuary of Dionysus and Pan. An ancient theatre.
White houses with tiled roofs. Quaint alleyways. Shops, cafes, tavernas. Macedonian stately homes. Remote coves and wheat-coloured sands. A child is skimming stones ir.to the sea.
Off to one side someone is beating an octopus he’s just caught.
From the nearby taverns you can taste savoury fish and fragrant local wine. Tnassos wine is said to bring on Dionysian intoxication.

History
4,000 Years of Greek History and Civilization lies in Macedonia. In the cave of Petralona in Halkidiki traces of the first people to inhabit Greece were discovered. With their only tool a stone they lived there for tens of thousands of years.
Then in the Neolithic era life took on a different shape. People lived and died within mud-brick houses they erected with branches and reeds. They founded settlements and cultivated the earth. In their hands clay became a material for making utensils and even works of art.
The small clay idols from Nea Nikomidia (6000 BC) and the clay heads from Drama (4000 BC) indicate the extent of their sensitivity and efforts to express themselves.
By about 2300 BC new groups of people were appearing in Macedonia. In their footprints we can read the fate of the Greeks. Gradually they began to master the use of metals, first bronze, then iron. The iron weapons, bronze jewellery and decorative objects found in the tombs of the cemetery at Verging reflect the level of civilization prevailing at the time.
During the Archaic period colonisation of the shores of Macedonia made for closer contacts with the rest of the Hellenic world.
Pottery from Corinth and Athens travelled to Macedonia along with the elements of Ionian architecture.
In classical times the impact of southern Greece became more and more fertile and creative. The king of Macedonia took part in the Olympic Games. The palace at Pella welcomed philosophers, poets, painters and musicians. Aristotle opened the way to European thought.
Artistic efforts influenced by Ionian creations began to take on individual forms in the hands of local artists.
Cities were built according to perfected plans. Painters left inspired works on the walls on the palaces and royal tombs. Craftsmen worked in gold with great sensitivity. This art spread to the far reaches of the east and was assimilated by the local populations together with the memory of Alexander the great.
Christianity arrived early in Macedonia, brought by St. Paul who travelled and taught in its cities. Thessaloniki became the second city of Byzantium.
Brilliant works, secular and religious, were built throughout Macedonia. In the beginning early Christian basilicas were erected; later, all types of ecclesiastical architecture were represented.
As examples, we have in Kastoria dozens of churches representing archangels, saints and more recent martyrs, in Veria the church of Christ with its multi-coloured compositions and, finally, the monastic state of Mt. Athos.
And Thessaloniki, with its fifty-seven churches and forty monasteries and their dependencies, with mosaic-floored basilicas and painted angels trumpeting to the heavens, has its own great store of wealth.
It abounds in testimonies to Byzantine architecture and painting. During the Turkish occupation of Macedonia, everything ground to a halt until the hour when the Greeks took some measure of the area’s economy into their own hands (18th c.). The art of this period is founded in the inspiration of the people, of which fine examples may be seen in the carved wooden doors, pottery, costumes, gold and silver jewellery and in Macedonian mansions and churches. In Macedonia the relationships of the inhabitants with Byzantium and antiquity are readily discernible.

MUSEUMS IN MACEDONIA

Amtipolis: Museum and archaeological site, Tel: 2322032474.
Dion: Archaeological site, Tel: 2351053206.
Edessa: Archaeological site, Longos, Tel: 238152261.
Florina: Museum, Tel: 2385028206.
Kavala: Kavala Museum, Tel: 2510222335, 224717, Folk Art Museum, Tel: 2510227820
Kastoria: Collection of Byzantine icons (Ag. Spyridon church), Tel: 2467026649.
Kilkis: Museum, Tel: 2341022477.
Kozani: Archaeological collection, Tel: 246126210
Naoussa: Archaeological site, Lefkadia, Tel: 2332041121.
Olinthos: Archaeological site, Tel: 2373021862.
Peila: Archaeological site and museum, Tel: 238231160, 31278.
Philippi: Archaeological site, Tel: 2510516470. Museum, Tel: 2510516251.
Poligiros: Museum, Tel: 2396031300.
Seres: Museum, Tel: 2321022257.
Thassos: Museum, Tel: 2593022180.