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Plomari Lesvos - Agios Isidoros

lesvorama.gr — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0200

There is a combination of peaceful and enjoyable recreation in Plomari. You will find well-appointed hotels, each with all the services or categories, restaurants by the seaside, traditional bakeries and nightclubs with modern and traditional music. You will also find many distilleries with a long tradition in the production of ouzo.

Plomari experienced strong economic growth since the late 19th century until the II World War. Many industries were built during this period (oil mills and soap factories, tanneries, mills and ouzo distilleries) particularly along the coast because the proximity to the sea facilitated both production and transportation of the products. However the olive oil production and the industries that are interwoven with the olive production remained always the base of the economy. The olive tree was in Plomari monoculture and large landowners were more affluent city residents who often extended their activities in the field of industry and commerce.

Main sightseeings are:
The church of Agia Paraskevi at the entrance of the town, the Cathedral St. Nicholas: a towering triple lesbian basilica, founded in 1847, the Church of the Holy Virgin Kripti located about 3 kilometers west of Melinda and about 10km from the center of Plomari and the church of Prophet Elias at the highest point of Plomari. Also beautiful is the church of St. Magdalene, the building of the highschool, the house Hatzidimitriou, old fountains, the old aged plane tree which was planted in 1813 in the old quarter of the town with its mansions, the renovated soap factory of I. Poulia, a building with significant architectural importance that now serves as the cultural heart of the City of Plomari. There is also the "Trade Industry and Navy Plomari at the beginning of the century" exhibition.

There is the folklore and ecclesiastical museum where local costumes, coins, church relics, utensils, etc. are exhibited, the library and museum of ouzo which is located in the ouzo factory of Varvagiannis. It is worth visiting the Olive Press - Museum «Aegean Gold» in Trigona where visitors can create a complete picture of the trip of the olive, from early times until today.

The natural beauty of Plomari is gathered around the crystal clear seas, "Plakakia", the Ammoudeli beach and the beach of Agia Barbara. Agios Isidoros with its unique pebbles is one of the largest and cleanest beaches on Lesvos having everything for the visitors. The beaches Drota and Melinda are also in this region.

Ouzo Museum "Varvagiannis"

The Varvagiannis Museum is located in Plomari. It is in front of the ouzo distilleries of the Varvagiannis factory, the 1st km on the provincial road Plomari - Mytilene, heading to Agios Isidoros. Walk to the Museum by taxi or bus. There is a car park next to the Museum (no extra charge).

Technology coexists with the history and tradition even today in the picturesque Plomari. Next to the modern, privately owned distilleries of Varvagiannis is the Museum of Ouzo of the family Varvagiannis.

The museum exhibits the first tools that were used for bottling and pasting the famous blue label and the first boiler was built in 1858 in Istanbul, which tested tips and techniques for centuries until the recipes of the family Varvagiannis were born.

The Ouzo Museum devoutly embraces tradition and hosts the secret that continues to give quality and taste in the Ouzo Varvagiannis.

Beaches

Agios Isidoros

Agios Isidoros is located 2 km away from Plomari in a touristic area with hotels and restaurants. It is about 1500m long and it is a beach with small pebbles. It is an organized beach and one of the cleanest beaches on Lesvos with very clean water. The beach has a blue flag.

Agia Barbara

Agia Barbara is located after the village of Saint Isidoros. Just at the end of the village, passing the bridge is a major turn towards Mytilene. Just turn right there and the road leads to the beautiful bay of Agia Barbara. The beach has small pebbles and clear water. The area has restaurants.

Melinda

Melina is a pretty big pebbled beach, clear waters and has an impressive rock in the middle: 20 meters long and 10 meters high. The length of the coast reaches 1000 meters and you can access it either via Plomari or by the road from the village of Paleochora. In the area there are hotels and restaurants.

Drota

Access to the beach Drota includes the descent of the gorge of the river Priona. At the highest point of the seaside lay the remnants of the abandoned medieval village of the region and stones from old mills. The beach of Drota is 1500 meters long and you can access it either by boat or through the road that begins from Akrasi. The Drota beach, with pebbles and crystal clear waters, is one of the most beautiful beaches on Lesvos.

West of Drota there is a mountainous region that separates the beach from the area of Vatera, while the east coast results in a steep cliff of gray-green slate, which hides behind and guards the Virgin Krifti Church

Frangokastello

sfakiacrete.gr — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Located on the South coast of Crete 12 kilometers east from Hora Sfakion and 86 kilometers of Hania town.

Frangokastello lies on gently shelving, fine sand beach backed by beautifull mountains. Relative remotness of the area ensure a stunning, natural, peacefull oasis as refuge from urban, loud and crowded places. It is "other world", definitelly. Frangokastello economy is related to turism, olive oil production, farming, sheep and goat herdering and fishing.

The site of the old "Castel Franco" (Franchise Castle), built by the Venetians in 1371 as a defense against pirates and Cretan rebels.

The Venetians built the castle right on the beach in 1371, to protect themselves from pirates and from the constant revolts of the locals.
They called it Castel Franco and that's how Frangokastello took its name.

The castle carries a blood-drenched history related to the struggle for freedom against the Turks. Related to this history, a strange phenomenon called Drosoulites, takes place in Frangokastello, and according to the legend, is related to the Battle of Frangokastello.

(courtesy of sfakiacrete.gr)

http://www.sfakiacrete.gr/el/travel-guide/sfakia-villages/frangokastello

Beletsi Lake in Parnitha

George Mavrogeorgos — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0200

The lake Beletsi is a small lake located at an altitude of 600 meters on the eastern slopes of Mount Parnitha, southwest of the Beletsi peak. This artificial lake was created about thirty years ago, when the opening of a forest road to connect the Agios Merkourios with Afidnes (Kiourka) blocked the passage of water which springs from the sources, resulting in the formation of the lake . Today is an important area where we find migratory birds and fish, mainly carp.

It is practically unknown to many people. This, combined (thankfully) with the lack of cafes, tavernas or related activities, makes the lake a place of calm and tranquility.

There is a playground, unfortunately in bad condition. There is however a basketball court. And of course, several little bridges and benches to enjoy the lake, the ducks, the swan, turtle and the deers which live in an enclosure.

To reach the lake Beletsi, leave Kiourka (Afidnai) and ascend to "Ippokratios Politeia". Follow signs to Agia Triada (Agia Triada Street or Dekelia street) and after a while there is a sign towards the lake. The lake is situated only 100 meters above the main road.

Gytheio

George Mavrogeorgos — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Gytheio is located in middle south of Peloponese at the center of the Laconian Gulf. It is a lively, charming little harbour town. The most of its houses are two- or three-storey neo-classical mansions, stuck to the steep side of the Mt. "Koumaros". A long sea-side promenade, the colourful fishing boats, the narrow streets and stairways produce the typical Greek environment which faszinates every visitor.

There are not realy mentionable ancient objects to be studied in Gythio. From its ancient past only a small Roman theatre was left by an earthquake that destroyed the city in the 4th century. So, every visitor is free to enjoy just greek present life.

Gythio is protected by spurs of the mighty Taygetos mountain range. Its highest "Profitis Ilias", with 2.407 m the highest mountain on the whole Peloponese, makes a marvellous background scene. From November to May, the snow-white peaks are a magnificent sight behind the deep blue sea.

A little island called "Kranai" and connected with the mainlaind by a short dam, protects the port of Gythio town from the open sea. It is a beautiful place with pine-trees and an ideal view-point to overlook the gulf towards the Parnon mountain range in the east and Taygetos in the north-west. As it is reported by Homer, the island was the first refuge of Helen and Paris on their journey to Troy. According to the myth, paris forgot his helmet on the islet as he was leaving - hence its name, since in Greek a helmet is calles "kranos". An interesting site on Kranai is the restored Tzannetakis Tower, a Maniot fortress-residence belonging to the Tzannetakis-Grigorakis families. It was donated to the state and currently houses the History and Ethnology Museum of Mani. Also worth visiting are the chapel of Agios Petros and the octagonal lighthouse of 22 m height, built in 1873 of tenarian marble.

There are many beaches around of Gythio and the largest one is Mavrovouni-beach. Because of its length of several kilometers it will never get crowded - just during the first half of August, when nearly all Greek people are on holiday, it may become a little more lively. In the afternoon, usually a perfect wind for wind-surfing will raise, and you can also hire a board and take lessons by the "Ocean Cafe". Mavrovouni beach is one of the favourite places for the "caretta-caretta" sea turtles to lay their eggs in the sand. The nests are surveyed and protected of the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece called ARCHELON.

In 2007 the beach of Mavrovouni was awarded the BLUE FLAG. The Blue Flag award is both based on all the bathing water quality results of the previous year and of the current year of the award. This means that only beaches with excellent bathing water quality standards in the previous year will be eligible for the Blue Flag award.

Text and photos by http://www.gythio-online.gr/

Symi

George Mavrogeorgos — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Simi is the eighth largest Greek island in the Dodecanese. Its nearest land neighbors are the Datca and Resadiye peninsulas of Mugla Province in Turkey. Its interior is dotted with small valleys, and its coastline alternates between rocky cliffs and beaches, and isolated coves. Its main town, located on the northeast coast, is also named Symi and consists of the lower town around the harbour, typically referred to as Yialos, and the upper town is called Horio or Ano Symi. Other inhabited localities are Pedi, Nimborio, Marathounda and Panormitis. Panormitis is the location of the island's famous monastery which is visited by people from all over the world, and many Greeks pay homage to St Michael of Panormitis each year.

The island has 2,606 inhabitants, mostly engaged in tourism, fishing, and trade. In the tourist season which lasts from Easter until Panormitis Day in early November, tourists and day-trippers increase the number of people on the island to as much as 6000. In addition to its many historical sites, the island's isolated beaches, many reachable only with small boats, are popular with tourists. The Municipality of Symi includes the uninhabited offshore islets of Gialesino, Diavates, Kouloundros, Marmaras, Nimos, Sesklio, and Chondros.

Today, on the island there are 5 settlements,Â Symi, Emporio, Marathounta, Pedio and Panormitis. (Source simi.gr)

Settlements Simi, Nimborio, Panormitis and Pedio have been declared the traditional PD Gov. 594D/13.11.78

When you arrive to the island you face a beautiful picture with the colorful houses and courtyards offering an amazing feeling in the eye of the visitor.

During the summer, small boats do day trips for the beautiful beaches. The approach of the beaches by other means such as car or foot is difficult.

Beaches

Nos. The closest in the capital and the most popular. It has pine trees which provide shade

Saint George. Perhaps the best beach with majestic rock and clean water.

Saint Nikoloas. Organized beach

Marathounta. Pebble and clean water.

Pedio. One of the most popular beaches - accessible by foot, taxi or bus.

Saint Basil. A beautiful pebble beache in a large and deep bay surrounded by mountains

Sesklo. Island in the southern tip of Symi with clear water. Accessible only by boat.

How to get to the island of Symi

You can reach the island by ferry from Piraeus using Blue Star Ferries company. Visit their website for information and reservations.

Also you can come by plane or boat to Rhodes and then by ship's comfort or Dodekanisos Seaways to get to Symi. Visit the Î‘ÎÎ•Î£ and Dodekanisos Seaways websites to find out about current services

Dicteon Antron - Birth place of Zeus

George Mavrogeorgos — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 +0200

Dicteon AntronÂ (also known as Psihro Cave), is located on the north side of Mountain Ditki. It is considered to be one of the most known caves worldwide with great mythological and arcaeological interest.

Ancient Greeks believed it to be the cave where Rea, found sanctuary away from the menace of Kronos and gave birth to Zeus. It is in this cave, that he grew up, fed with the milk of goat Amalthia and under the protection of the Kourites.

Many Greek and foreign archaeologists have studied Dikteon AntronÂ and excavated the cave.The findings of these excavations are from a variety of eras dating from Neolithic to Minoan, Late Minoan, Geometric, Archaic, Classic, Hellenistic and Roman times. A proof that the cave was used continuously by humans, mostly as a place of warship.

The chambers of the cave have a surface of 2.200 square meters and the length of the touristâ€™s route is 250 meters. The beauty of the speleothems and the small lake add a taste of magic to this place that nourished the mightiest of the ancient Greek Gods.

Evros River Delta

e-evros.gr — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Evros River is the second largest river in the Balkans. Starting from the northern side of the Bulgarian Rila, crosses and waters the fertile plain of Eastern Rumelia, to reach the Thracian Sea, east of Alexandroupolis, covering a 515 km route. Arriving at sea, it carries huge volumes of material. It is estimated that these materials (soil, sand, mud, tree trunks) weight as many as 170,000 tons, extending to the sea shore and prevent the free flow of the river, forcing him to flow into many parts to the sea.

The area of the delta with many parts of the river, lakes, lagoons and islands, is one of the few survived wetlands in our country. With the great vegetation it binds huge quantities of carbon dioxide, stores or releases heat, thus regulating the micro climate of the area. A wide variety of flora and fauna can also be found in this area.

In the Evros Delta there have been identified 46 species of fish, 7 species of amphibians, 21 species of reptiles and more than 40 species of mammals (otters, wildcats, badgers, weasels, badgers, hedgehogs, squirrels, bats, etc.), while a huge number of birds use the delta as a permanent resident, a shelter during the winter months or as a rest area when moving from Northern Europe to Africa. 310 species have been recorded in the delta, which accounts for 74% of 420 bird species recorded in Greece.

All these make the Evros Delta, an extremely important habitat. Its importance is increased when combined with the proximity to other nearby habitat, the Dadia forest and surrounding mountains, where many predators such as sea-short-toed eagles, golden eagles come here to find their food. Pairs of black stork, the few that exist in Greece and nest in the surrounding hills, visit almost daily the wetland of the delta, which provides their food.

The Dadia Forest

e-evros.gr — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Dadia, on the edge of a large forest, occupies the center of the Prefecture of Evros and is spread over an area of 73,000 acres. It is declared a strictly protected area by international treaties and Greek law because in this area there is a unique in Greece and Europe animal population of reptiles, mammals and particularly birds of prey. Dadia is an area of great ecological significance.

Dadia area is one of the last refuges of the winged world of Europe. 36 species of diurnal raptors (out of 38 total in Europe) live here. Especially the black vulture with a wingspan of up to 3 m., lives only here and in central Spain. Moreover, the animal population consists of 219 species of birds, 40 species of reptiles and amphibians and 48 species of mammals (wild boars, foxes, badgers, otters, deer, hares, wolves, bats, squirrels, etc.).

Visitors can find an information center with a permanent exhibition, films and slides. A small bus takes visitors on a closed watchtower in the forest from where they can observe (using binoculars and telescopes) the birds of prey when they come in a special feeder for food.

Cave of the Lakes - Kastria - Kalavryta

showcaves.gr — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Near the village of Kastria, in the prefecture of Achaia and 16.5 km from Kalavryta, is the famed â€œCave of the Lakesâ€.

This wondrous creation of nature features labyrinthine passages, mysterious galleries and strange stalactite formations. However, the â€œCave of the Lakesâ€ also possesses something unique: 13 successive lakes in tiers on three levels, making it the only one of its type in the world. The exploited length of the cave amounts to 500 metres, while the total length of the cave is 1980 metres.

Visitors enter the cave through an artificial tunnel leading directly to the second level of the cave, whose vastness is awe-inspiring. Small raised bridges are used to cross the lakes, while fossilized bones of humans and various other animals, including a hippopotamus, have been found in the lower level of the cave. This section is intended to be a biospeleological laboratory of international scope.

The myth tells of how Lysippe, Iphinoe and Iphianassa, the daughters of Proetus, king of Tiryns, boasted that they were more beautiful than the goddess Hera and neglected the worship of Dionysus. Zeusâ€™ companion Hera did not forgive this arrogance and drove them mad. Believing they were heifers, they roamed the mountains and valleys of the Peloponnese spreading a mania for infanticide among the women of Argolida. Eventually they reached the cave of Aroaneion, where they were found by Melampus and cured.

In 1964, residents of Kastria climbed up to the second level for the first time, using wooden ladders on a 9-metre high platform. The exploration was undertaken by the Hellenic Mountaineering Association (E.O.S.) with professor I. Melenti and charting was undertaken by the Hellenic Speleological Society (E.S.E) with the speleologist A. Petrocheilou.

Exploitation of the cave was begun in 1981 by the Greek National Tourist Organization and in1985 was granted to the Community of Kastria, which is responsible for its operation.Â

Plaka's Bridge

George Mavrogeorgos — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Plaka's bridge is one of the most beautyful traditional bridges in Greece.

Built during the 19th century, it used to be a border crossing between Greece and the Ottoman Turkey until 1912.

It has a height of 21 meters and 60 meters length (40 meters long is the main arch). It is considered the largest single arch in the Balcans

From Arta you turn left to Pramanta and Agnatnta (45 - 50 minutes drive)

Vagonetto - Fokis Mining Park

George Mavrogeorgos — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Vagonetto â€“ Fokis Mining Park, one of Greece's newest and unique attractions, is an ideal outing for families, vacationers, school and university students. Itâ€™s not only about mining; it's a great experience on local history come alive and a great excursion for just about everyone!

Î¥oÏ…r tour lasts about an hour and will commence with Î¿ visit of mining machinery, new and old that has been mostly used in underground mine operations.

Then ... take a journey to the canter of the earth at Mine Gallery 850. Exploring Mine Gallery 850 will take yÎ¿Ï… back to the past as yÎ¿Ï… board the Vagonetto, the little train the miners actually used 30 Î¥ears ago.

Once underground, yÎ¿Ï…r tÎ¿Ï…r will continue on foot. As yÎ¿Ï… walk through the gallery, discover the history of bauxite mining and through special effects, experience the typical day of the thousands of men that have worked in the mine. Share in their laughter, hopes and dreams. Listen to their daily banter as they work side by side, teasing and helping each other during their hard work. From the workers' clothing to the machinery, visitors will experience all this right before their eyes as if they have stepped back in time. Your journey will conclude at the Parkâ€™s Expo, a building that once housed the Mineâ€™s administration.

Agios Nikolaos - Agios Dimitrios - Mani

George Mavrogeorgos — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In Mani, south of the touristic sites of Stoupa and Kardamili we find the fascinating villages of Agios Nikolaos, Agios Dimitrios and Trahila.

The area is ideal for relaxing family holidays.

Agios Nikolaos is the largest village. It is basically a fishing village, a fishing lodge. A very beautiful village with stone houses and a picturesque harbor.

In the village there are taverns, mini market, pharmacy and bars for a drink. During the summer months the coastal road becomes a pedestrian road.

Agios Dimitrios is located 2 kilometers away and is a small coastal settlement. It is a picturesque fishing village, a real hideaway.

Even further, about 8 km away is Trahila. The scenery is stunning with wild cliffs almost reach the sea and wonderful rock formations which in some cases create small beaches.

In Trahila you can find cafes, taverns and rooms to rent. Paths that lead to Thalames and Langada begin from the beach..

Accommodation

In all three villages there are plenty of choices for your stay. Luckily for us there are no large hotels. The area is preferred mostly by Germans and Austrians.

Paths â€“ Trecking â€“ Walking â€“ Bike ride

The area is ideal for hiking. Walk from Agios Nikolaos to Agios Dimitrios (2 km) and Aghios Dimitrios to Trahila (6km). In Trahila look for paths that go uphill for Langada and Thalames.

The coastal road Agios Nikolaos - Agios Dimitrios - Trahila is ideal for a bike ride.

Arta's Bridge

George Black — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The Arta's Bridge is a stone bridge over the river Arachthos, built in the 17th century and is perhaps the most famous traditional bridge in Greece. Because of the famous legend, the name of the bridge is used today to identify a project that takes too long to finish.

The bridge stands just off the main road (to our right) coming from Arta and Ioannina. Because of the new ring road that bypasses Arta, you have to enter the city to visit the bridge.

When Arta was liberated (1881), the bridge became the boundary between free and Turkish-occupied Greece. The two-story neoclassical building at the west end of the bridge, built in 1864 by an Austrian architect and now houses the Folklore Museum of Arta, originally used as an Ottoman outpost and later, after the year 1881 as a border station and Turkish Customs.

Anemotrypa Cave - Pramanta

George Black — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The story of the cave begins around 1960. Two young men, Apostolis Lambris and George Karakostas, opened up the slot which emitted cool air to explore the interior, on the occasion of the arrival of the legendary speleologist Anna Petrochilos. After crawling with great difficulty they found a wide pit.

The cave has three levels. The highest and oldest has collapsed in the past and today is partially saved. The middle level is available to visit. The third level is the flow of an underground river. The river appears at the end of the tourist trail, just before it creates a 2 meter waterfall, 10 meters below the path. The river water reappears at a source, 25 meters below the entrance of the cave.

The corridor leads to a chamber caled Red Lake. It is a staggered work of stone with the running water of the lake creating a unique spectacle.Â

The open to public section has a length of 250 m.

Next to the cave you can find a shop with pies and other traditional products.

For more information

email: info@pramanta.gr or cave@pramanta.gr

website http://www.pramanta.gr/anemotrypa

Original article and photos http://www.showcaves.gr/default.asp?V_DOC_ID=1982

(The use of the material is courtesy of showcaves.gr)

Diros Cave (Vlichada Cave) - Mani

George Mavrogeorgos — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The Diros cave (Vlychada cave) is located on the west coast of the Laconian Peninsula, the Bay of Dirou. It is considered the most beautiful lake cave in the world

Under the austere landscape of Mani, nature has sculptured a miracle beyond imagination. Bright white stalactites and stalagmites, curtains and dramatic glittering crystals create a unique breathtaking spectacle!

The cave formation started hundreds of thousands of years ago. The stalactites and stalagmites that are currently under water formed when sea level was much lower than the current level. Researchers found stalactites at a depth of 71 meters. The water temperature is around 14 C, while air temperature ranges from 16 to 19 C.

The tour is by boat and there is a part of the cave where visitors are on foot.

Shortly after Areopolis, you will see signs that guide you to the area of the cave. The location is a super quiet cove with crystal clear waters where you can swim.

Cape Sounio

George Mavrogeorgos — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Cape Sounion Î¹Ïƒ located in the southernmost part of Attica. The coast is rocky and steep. Sounion is known because of its significant naval positionÂ and also because of the ruins of the ancient temple of Neptune.

The Temple of Neptune dominates the landscape. It rises on a rock beside the sea with superb views across the region. The sunset from the cliff is a great experience.

The temple took four years to built in 444 BC and completed in four years (440 BC). Just next to the temple there was an earlier temple of Athena, ruins of which exist today.

The temple of Neptune is a Doric temple, built with local marble. It is believed that it is a work of the same architect who had designed the temple of Hephaestus in Athens, Thissio. On one of the 11 surviving columns, Lord Byron has written his name.

During the Peloponnesian War, the area was fortified with a wall nearly three meter thick in order to protect the flow of food. Ruins survive today at the perimeter of the temple.

Where to stay

There are many options for accommodation nearby. You can choose the same area of Sounion and one of the hotels there. Approximately 10 minutes by car, you can find Lavrion with hotels and apartments.

Santorini

Niki Vafeidou — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Santorini is an island of the Cyclades, one of the most popular tourist destinations, not only in Greece but in the whole world.

Because of the volcano and the special volcanic landscape of the island, there is a very special atmosphere not found in the rest of the Cyclades and the Aegean.

A characteristic of the island are the villages built on the dark rock of the island offering spectacular views across the Aegean Sea. The settlements kept the traditional Cycladic architecture with whitewashed houses and verandas, offering moments of relaxation.

Accommodation

The island offers a great variety for accommodation. There are many hotels and rooms to let for everybody. During the summer months booking is required.

Sightseeing

The volcano

The volcano, otherwise called â€œCalderaâ€, is one of the active volcanoes in Europe. It is a remnant of the volcanic island â€œStroggylhâ€ which exploded in 1613 BC, thereby leading to the creation of the islands of Santorini, and Aspronisi Thirassia.

Akrotiri Prehistoric settlement
Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. This is an area of 200 acres where visitors will see the findings of an ancient culture, a prehistoric journey back around 4000 years, buried under the soil because of the volcano.

Ancient Thira
It is located on the southeastern coast. Excavations revealed the remains of Hellenistic and Roman period, on a regionthat used to be an observatory point.

The traditional village of Pyrgos.
In the village of Pyrgos, restored buildings house exhibits of the traditional life of the island. You can see traditional costumes and many artifacts from the old days.

THE VILLAGES

Across the island the visitor can see traditional villages that offer hospitality and an ideal place for relaxation. Apart from the capital â€œFiraâ€, there are the picturesque settlements of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, offering beautiful views accross the sea. There are also the coastal villages of Kamari, Perissa, Vlychada all with beautiful beaches ideal for swimming. In the interior of the island there are the beautiful villages of Emporio, Messaria and Tower.

BEACHES

Because of the volcanic landscape,Â Santoriniâ€™sÂ beaches are rarely found in the Aegean. You can visit Mavri Paralia (black beach), Kokini Paralia (Red Beach) at Akrotiri,Â Kamari, Perissa, and Vlychada.

MUSEUMS

Prehistoric Museum of Santorini - Thira.
Exhibits findings from the excavations of ancient Thira.

Archaeological Museum of Santorini - Thiron.
Museum with exhibits of sculpture and inscriptions from the Archaic to the Roman period, pottery and clay figurines from the Geometric to the Hellenistic period.

Folklore Museum Lignos A.
Exhibits from the daily lives of residents in the 19th century, artifacts, photographs, books, tools and many other items.

Art Space - Wine Museum
An old winery of 1861, turned into art galleries, where visitors see the old vineyards, the presses, along with exhibits of contemporary art.
http://www.artspace-santorini.com/

LOCAL PRODUCTS

Wine
Given the particular soil and climate, the island has a long tradition of wine even from prehistoric times. The most famous are the white Athiri Aidani and red Mantilaria and Mavrotragano Voudomato.

Split peas
It is famous for its unique flavor and dark yellow color.

Tomatoes
Tasty little cherry tomatoes, with a very strong flavor and aroma.

Cucumbers' Katsouni "
The Katsouni is kind of round cucumber very sweet in flavor and whiter than the usual cucumber.

Info
http://www.thira.gr/

Aggitis Cave

George Mavrogeorgos — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The Aggitis cave or "Maara" is located in the prefecture of Drama in Prosotsani. It is a river cave. Aggitis river crosses the entire cave which is estimated to be approximately 12 kilometers long and 400 meters of elevation.

It is a unique of its kind in Greece. It is one of the few river caves and the second, as yet, longest cave in Greece.

8.5 kilometers are explored. Of these, about 2.5 kilometers are accessible. Visitors can enjoy the first half kilometer (500 meters).

The name "Maara" comes either from Arabic and means "small cave" or Hebrew and means "water from the mountain". A very small part of the cave, the river exit (entrance of the cave) is known since the ancient times. There is also a water wheel, constructed during the Ottoman occupation, Â which was used for lifting water from the river and transfer it to the surrounding villages. The system covered the water needs of the area until the mid 20th century.

In the region there are also many archaeological sites containing evidence of acitivity since 30.000 B.C. The evidence include stone tools and animal bones (including a mammoth), held today at the museum of Drama. Scientists have also dicovered some unique fish species, such as Briana and tylinari at depths of 6500 meters, and a unique kind of semi-transparent crayfish.Â

Visitors are welcomed by a beautifully landscape with information, recreation areas, restaurant and parking. River Aggitis, just coming out of the cave, creates a unique atmosphere.

Meteora

George Mavrogeorgos — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:00:00 +0200

Meteora is a rare geological formation that stands above the town of Kalambaka. On the cliffs there are the monasteries of Meteora. The monasteries are now the second most important monastic complex in Greece, after Agio Oros. Of the thirty monasteries once in operation, only six are currently operating. Since 1988 Meteora are on the UNESCO list of World Heritage (http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/455)Â

Studies suggest that the pinnacles were formed about 60 million years ago during the Tertiary Period.[8] Weathering and earthquakes then shaped them into their present shape.

From Kalambaka, an asphalt road starts leading easily up to the monasteries. The monasteries attract many visitors from all over the world.Â

For your accommodation, Kalambaka is the obvious choice. However, visitors can also choose the beautiful nearby city of Trikala.

Monasteries

(source wikipedia)

The exact date of the establishment of the monasteries is unknown. By the late 11th and early 12th century, a rudimentary monastic state had formed called the Skete of Stagoi and was centered around the still-standing church of Theotokos (mother of God).[1] By the end of the 12th century, an ascetic community had flocked to Meteora.

In 1344, Athanasios Koinovitis from Mount Athos brought a group of followers to Meteora. From 1356 to 1372, he founded the great Meteoron monastery on Broad Rock, which were perfect for the monks; they were safe from political upheaval and had complete control of the entry to the monastery. The only means of reaching it was by climbing a long ladder, which was drawn up whenever the monks felt threatened.

At the end of the 14th century, the Byzantine Empire's 800-year reign over northern Greece was being increasingly threatened by Turkish raiders who wanted control over the fertile plain of Thessaly. The hermit monks, seeking a retreat from the expanding Turkish occupation, found the inaccessible rock pillars of Meteora to be an ideal refuge. More than 20 monasteries were built, beginning in the 14th century.[1] Six remain today. There is a common belief that St. Athanasius (founder of the first monastery) did not scale the rock, but was carried there by an eagle.

In 1517, Nectarios and Theophanes built the monastery of Varlaam, which was reputed to house the finger of St John[disambiguation needed] and the shoulder blade of St Andrew.

Access to the monasteries was originally (and deliberately) difficult, requiring either long ladders lashed together or large nets used to haul up both goods and people. This required quite a leap of faith â€“ the ropes were replaced, so the story goes, only "when the Lord let them break".[5] In the words of UNESCO, "The net in which intrepid pilgrims were hoisted up vertically alongside the 373 metres (1,224 ft) cliff where the Varlaam monastery dominates the valley symbolizes the fragility of a traditional way of life that is threatened with extinction." In the 1920s there was an improvement in the arrangements. Steps were cut into the rock, making the complex accessible via a bridge from the nearby plateau. During World War II the site was bombed and many art treasures were stolen.

Until the 17th century, the primary means of conveying goods and people from these eyries was by means of baskets and ropes.

Only six of the monasteries remain today. Of these six, five are inhabited by men, one by women. Each monastery has fewer than 10 inhabitants. The monasteries are now tourist attractions.

Acheron river

George Mavrogeorgos — Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 +0200

The springs of the river Acheron is an area of outstanding natural beauty situated at the boundary of Thesprotia and Preveza prefectures near the village Kanalaki and Glyki. The river Acheron and the surrounding areas are an ecosystem that is recognized and protected by the Natura 2000 network.

Beneath the trees that spread throughout the area, visitors can enjoy many activities including walking, rafting, etc.

Starting from the village Glyki, go up the river through the canyon against the current. Several times we will find ourselves walking through the river where the water is shallow but very cold especially near a spring. Then you have to swim a little where the water is about 2 meters deep. So if we have some stuff with us, we must leave them behind or carry along a little plastic boat.

We can enjoy refreshments or lunch by the river as there are many restaurants and bars.

Where to stay

For accommodation we can choose some of the surrounding areas with hotels and apartments. Vrachos, Loutsa, or even Parga are some possible accommodation areas.

Activities

In the river Acheron there are various activities available such as canoeing, kayaking and rafting with the possibility of crossing the river to the sea. Also, with proper equipment and knowledge, you can cross the gorge.

Walking Path Trikastro Preveza - Scala Tzavelena (Glyke) - River Descent

The route Trikastro-Sweet crosses the Straits of Acheron throughout their length. The trail begins just outside the village Trikastro and follow a path parallel to the river. Within an hour we come across a spring with drinking water. After a hike of about 2.30 hours, the path is splitting. On the right, the path leads to the bridge "Dallas" and then on to Souli). Continuing straight ahead, we reach the "stairs of Tzavelena" a location with spectacular views. This is the end of the trail. (Http://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/Î§Î±ÏÎ¬Î´ÏÎ±_Ï„Î¿Ï…_Î‘Ï‡ÎÏÎ¿Î½Ï„Î±)

Some information suggest that this route is now impossible due to collapsing of the path. So contact local authorities for more information.

Going up the river:

Take the path that leads to 'tunnel' of the 'Scala Tzavelena (tunnel from 1960 effort to open up a road towards Souli). The "Tzavelena Staircase" is a staggered path, steep in places from where we descend to the river. From there we go across the old bridge to the "mill of Dallas' and from there, anÂ upward path leads to Souli (3h). On this route one can enjoy panoramic view of a large part of the Acheron and the two mountains forming the gorge, "Pyrgos-Benouka", "Lagos-Podi Tsoukas". This part of the Acheron in summer is ideal for canoeing for beginners.
(Http://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/Î§Î±ÏÎ¬Î´ÏÎ±_Ï„Î¿Ï…_Î‘Ï‡ÎÏÎ¿Î½Ï„Î±)