TOURIST GUIDE OF HELIA PREFECTURE

CONTENTS

14

Getting to know Elia

19

Our prefecture seen through numbers

28

Historical Elia Pyrgos, a hospitable town

35 41

Pyrgos municipal market Amaliada: New and modern

43 48

Elis: an impressive ancient mega city Ancient Olympia : A holy land

56

Ancient Alipheira : the temple of Athena and the primeval myths Ancient Figalo : the kingdom of wine drinking and oracles Epicurean Apollo : Bassae in Figalo «concealed» a masterpiece

88 95

Interesting bridges

96

Andritsaina : the «lady» of Elia

104

Alpheos-Neda: legendary rivers

114

Kaiafas : Untouched and ancient, unique in the whole world

122 124

Gastouni : the catholic is her landmark Chlemoutsi castle : the stone giant Vartholomio : Arkoudi, Glyfa and numerous visitors Kilini : an ideal choice

76 78

132 135

137 Religious festivals and holidays 162 Municipality of Skillounda : Carrying a great history164 Monasteries-pilgrimages : Priceless treasures of Elia

Monastery of Isova: the ruins are awesome

174 180

Municipality of Zaharo : historical wealth Municipality of Volakas : Ancient Epitalio and Agoulinitsa

187

189

Lepreo : A rich land full of springs Getting away from your everyday routine with Olympic trails

198 210

Kotichi-Strofilia : a splendid combination of beauty

217 220

Lechaina : tradition and culture Andravida : famous for her horses

222

The beaches of Elia : the endless light blue

249

Foloi : forest of the nymphs

252

Divri : the climate is enticing

254

The ravine of Goumero

259

Spa tourism Municipality of Peneia : it offers lovely trails

264

Municipality of Iardanos : a green land on an important crossroads Convention tourism

265

268 269

Christian temples of historical interest Area of Olena : A bastion of Orthodoxy Ancient Yrmine

271

274 275

Elia : the land of culture

278

Elian products traditional recipes

284

Hotels, accommodation

290

Interesting information telephone directory

298 299 309 329

Rafting and other sports Restaurants-grill houses- taverns Rooms to let and tourist agencies.

FOREWORD by the the Minister of Tourism FANNY PALLI - PETRALIA Dear Friends,

«Regarding Ilia», as this short note could be titled, there so much to say about this blessed place. It’s Past, which can be tracked back to the dawn of ages, it’s Present, formatting a quite promising provincial model of social and economic activity, the Future, presenting several prospects for constant development and achievement of even higher standards of prosperity and wellbeing.

One of the main assets for Ilia is the Tourism sector and to be more specific, the so-called visitors economy. The natural environment of the area is unique, combining elements of an ideal destination: crystal seas, wonderful beaches, exciting mountain areas, picturesque landscapes with traditional villages and landscapes, modern cities, lakes and thermal springs. A destination supporting a wide spectrum of tourism activities, from the plain need for «sea and sun» and relaxation, to the hosting conventions and international events, the opportunity for cultural tourism, wellness, even extreme sports. This is one of the reasons why Ilia is nowadays attracting heavy interest in tourism investments of large scale, with a few major projects being currently under consideration.

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But above all, it is Ilia’s cultural and historical heritage that makes a difference.

Over 2.700 years ago, at the place called Olympia, the first Olympic Games took place, a hymn of the outmost importance to peace, solidarity, and democracy.

The values upon which, the modern western civilisation is founded and the basic concept of Human Relations in our world is formed.

Beyond that, the last few years, Ilia is undergoing significant change, upgrading its infrastructures and transport networks, modernising all kinds of public and private services, enhancing and developing further commerce, agriculture, business.

It is with great pleasure that I foreword this guide, for it presents an excellent example of how a local society and economy can benefit from private initiative and creativity.

Fanny Palli- Petralia Minister of Tourism

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AGGELOS AGGELOPOULOS

Wander around and enjoy yourselves in the «trails» of our natural surroundings, our history and civilization he businesspeople of Elia and I would like to welcome you to our prefecture wishing and hoping you will wander around and enjoy yourselves in the paths of the natural, archaeological and historical beauty that Elia offers.

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Our prefecture is experiencing exceptional progress in tourism and aspires to attract your interest during the whole length of your stay here.

In our area you can experience the other side of Greece. The one associated with Antiquity and Byzantium. You could visit our religious monuments, which offer a unique architecture, while relaxing in one of our forests or beaches, tasting our traditional delicacies.

Elia as a travelling destination offers something distinctive. Whether visiting our mountainous areas or the plains and the seaboard, our civilization and history are omnipresent.

With this current publication we aim at helping you enjoy your stay and help you visit as many local destinations as you may want, according to your choices and tastes.

I would like to thank the General Secretary of the Region of Western Greece Mr. Panayiotis Cavvathas without whose moral and financial support, we wouldn’t have been able to publish this guide.

Have an enjoyable stay Aggelos Aggelopoulos President of the Federation of Traders’ Associations of Elia

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FEDERATION OF TRADERS’ ASSOCIATIONS OF ELIA he deep concern that the current president of the Chamber Mr. Aggelos Aggelopoulos felt about commerce in the Elia market and the local entrepreneurs , together with the willingness that many professionals

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Since its establishment 13 years ago, the federation has put forward many important claims.

There has been direct intervention in matters concerning entrepreneurial taxation, market problems, develo-

The first in Greece!

It unites the concerns , expectations and assertions of the Elia traders and production classes showed by wanting to take their own initiatives and the common feeling shared for enterprising and unified assertions all led to the foundation of the Federation of Traders’ Associations of Elia.

It was, as a matter of fact, the first federation of traders established in Greece (!) and was also a founding member of the then Union of Greek Traders’ Association, now known as the National Confederation of Greek Traders. (NCGT).

The initiative taken by the traders of Elia was later followed by other associations around the country.

The Federation of Traders’ Associations of Elia was founded on March 20 , 1992 and the founding associations were those of Pyrgos, Varda and Vartholomio. Presently, all Traders’ associations in Elia belong to the federation with the exception of Amaliada.

pmental funding, etc.

The federation has also intervened in matters concerning the development of our prefecture in issues such as tourism, the airport, infrastructure, ports, industrial zones, etc 12 objectives In particular and according to its charter the Federation of Traders’ Associations of Elia aims at the following 12 objectives: 1. It addresses the local authorities and trade unions in any matter concerning professional, financial and social issues of its members or the community in general.

2. It takes all the necessary measures to inform the public and the authorities on any matter concerning business.

3. It carefully monitors actions taken by the government and the legislation

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Members of the Federation of traders’ associations at a meeting with the governor of the region of western Greece P. Kavvathas

that are related to the economic policy of the state as far as revenue, market, industrial, farming and in general trade are concerned. It determines its stance and indicates, accordingly, solutions. It informs its members and also members of other similar organizations. It also arranges local meetings and conventions so that the issues that concern traders are jointly examined.

4. It aims at representation and participation of traders in boards, commities and all events which concern experienced people, with special skills and abilities.

5. It publishes books, magazines and newspapers, and also establishes clubs and libraries. Moreover, it publishes numerous articles and essays in financial and political newspapers. It organizes training and educational seminars as well as lectures and in general strives to keep the public informed about its stance on issues concerning trade and commerce.

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6. It seeks to assist the development and progress of trade and the specialized disciplines by offering professional training to members of its class either in Greece or abroad in order to have executives of a high caliber.

7. It allocates to commitie’s it forms or to specialized experienced persons the study of issues concerning taxation, the market, labor and in general matters of trade and economy, thus aspiring after the advancement of trade.

8. It aims at strengthening the financial grant of traders enabling them to develop and expand their businesses.

9. Through its committees and specialized staff it promotes the constitution and implementation of regional, political and economic development programs.

10. It contributes to the publicity and development of trading by organizing exhibitions and events thus promoting the traders’ position to the general public.

11. It organizes and holds rallies and activities in order to assert and solve problems that concern traders as well as to protect the professional, financial and social rights and interests of its members.

12. In order to achieve all the aforementioned, the federation organizes appropriate services and in general makes all the necessary efforts to achieve its goals.

TRADER’S ASSOCIATIONS FEDERATION OF TRADERS’ ASSOCIATIONS OF ELIA 1. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF PYRGOS CHAIRMAN : ATHANASSIOS SKORDALIS phone. 26210-27172 fax. 31100 cell 6937144663 (12-14 Patron str. Pyrgos) 2. ASSOCIATION OF TRADESMEN AND CRAFT INDUSTRIES OF GASTOUNI CHAIRMAN : DEMETRIOS DEMOU tel. 26230-32369,32995, home no.

26230-32763 cell 6974760378 (address GASTOUNI ELIA, 27100)

5. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF KRESTENA CHAIRMAN : CHRISTOS PLATIS tel. 26250-22214, home 26250-22324 cell 6936873885, fax 23900 (address : KERSTENA ELIA, 27055)

6. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF ANDRITSAINA CHAIRMAN : AGGELOS GIANNOPOULOS tel. 26260-22251, home 26260-22666, fax 26260-22308 (address ANDRITSAINA , ELIA 27061)

3. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF LECHAINA CHAIRMAN : CHARALAMBOS PALADINOS tel. 26230-22941, 23450, fax. 2623022941 cell 6944353349

7. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF VARDA CHAIRMAN : ANDREAS TSIROS cell 6977359586 (address VARDA, ELIA 27052)

4. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF KATAKOLO CHAIRMAN NIKOLAOS KARAPANAGIOTIS tel. 26210-41128 EX CHAIRMAN : DEMETRIOS MAKRYGIANNIS tel. 26210-41223 cell 6972389408 (address : KATAKOLO ELIA, 27067)

8. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF ZAHARO CHAIRMAN : DEMETRIOS DRAKOPOULOS tel. 26250-34476, 32664, fax. 2625034676, home 26250-32962 cell 6979984853 (address ZAHARO, ELIA 27054)

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9. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF ANDRAVIDA CHAIRMAN : ANASTASSIOS VARVARESSOS tel 26230-55280, 55930 fax. 2623055399, cell 6942234531 (address 43 ETHNIKIS ANDISTASEOS str, ANDRAVIDA, ELIA 27051) 10. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF VARTHOLOMIO «SAINT BARTHOLOMEW» CHAIRWOMAN : NIKI ARVANITI tel 26230-41226 (address VARTHOLOMIO, ELIA 27050)

11. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF TRAGANO CHAIRMAN : NIKOLAOS TSAKONAS tel. 26230 61261, home 26230-61121 cell. 6938332779 (address TRAGANO, ELIA 27057)

12. TRADERS’ ASSOCIATION OF KILLINI CHAIRMAN : GEORGE DRAGONAS tel. 26230-92445, cell. 6946189298, fax. 26230-92240 (address, KILLINI, ELIA 27068)

FEDERATION OF PRODUCTION CLASSES OF ELIA 1.ASSOCIATION OF ELECTRICIANS CHAIRMAN : PANAGIOTIS XENOS TEL. 26210-33576, CELL 6947736029

2. ASSOCIATION OF PLUMBING, HEATING AND AIRCONDITIONING CHAIRMAN : CONSTANTINE ATHANASSOPOULOS TEL 26210-26363, CELL 6977991599

3. ASSOCIATION OF TAXI OWNERS CHAIRMAN : NONTAS BARTZAKOS TEL. 26210-69131, CELL. 6979808561

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4. ASSOCIATION OF GROCERS OF PYRGOS CHAIRMAN : DEMETRIOS MANDAS TEL. 26210-31714, HOME 26210-22516 5. ASSOCIATION OF GREENGROCERS CHAIRMAN : MICHAEL APOSTOLOPOULOS TEL. 26210-25636 6. ASSOCIATION OF BUTCHERS CHAIRMAN : DEMETRIOS MALLIOPOULOS TEL. 26210-28765 7. ASSOCIATION OF BARBERS AND HAIRDRESSERS CHAIRMAN : TAKIS REVELOS TEL/ 26210-36831

Getting to know Elia Splendid and vast, Elia is a perfect destination for winter and summer holidays.

The prefecture of Elia with its great archaeological treasures and endless blue sea is a once in a lifetime experience of knowledge, holidays and relaxation. The cradle of the Olympic games is known for its hospitality and its long history of fraternization.

A lovely view of lake Kaiafas

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he prefecture combines a priceless cultural treasure, 134 km of sandy beaches, well known spas, unique forests and eco-systems as well as religious buildings of historical interest. All the above make it an excellent tourist destination.

Tourism for all tastes is offered, agro tourism, summer and winter resorts, spas and recently, special accommodation arrangements for conventions are all available in hotels which meet with the highest standards.

The prefecture of Elia is in the North West of Peloponnesus.

The Ionian sea to the West results in a temperate climate with high rainfall, resulting in lush vegetation.

Elia borders with Achaia to the North, Messinia to the South and Arcadia to the

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Getting to know Elia

Hermes by Praxiteles at the museum of Ancient Olympia.

The Peneios dam.

East. It takes up 2,621 sq. km and is mostly covered by plains. It is divided into two sub-provinces (Elia and Olympia), 22 municipalities and many local communities. The main urban centre is the capital, Pyrgos. Amaliada also offers many services.

The prefecture is easily accessible either by car, train or ship. In the near future visitors will be able to get here by plane, too as a civil airport is under construction in Andravida.

For those travelling to Elia by car there are 3 main routes:

Old, historical houses which could be seen mostly in the mountainous region.

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The marina in Katakolo.

a. The Athens-Corinth-Patras -Pyrgos motorway. b. From Arcadia through the new road that leads to Olympia c. From Messenia via the KyparissiaPyrgos motorway.

For those travelling by train, there are regular trains from Piraeus- Athens and Kyparissia-Kalamata, while by ship the main port is Kyllini which links the mainland and Elia with Zakynthos and Cephalonia.

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The indicators that represent our area nowadays

Our prefecture seen through numbers

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of the population of Greece lives in Elia. The shift in population in the last 2 decades is as follows : Between 1981-1991 there was an increase of 11,9% compared to 7,9% in the region of Western Greece and 5,3% throughout the country.

Between 1991 and 2001 there was an increase of 7,9% compared to 4,7% in the region and 6,9% in the whole country. Among the 22 municipalities of Elia, the greatest increase in population was in Foloi (27,3%), Gastouni (23,2%), Tragano (21,2%), Alifeira (20,8%) and Amaliada (20,7%).

The prefecture’s contribution to the country’s GNP has been stable (1,1%). 24% of the prefecture’s output is farming which comprises 3,8% of the country’s general output. Elia is also the second biggest producer of potatoes and tomatoes yielding 13,6% and 11,3% of the country’s produce. It’s 4th in milk production (3,9%), 5th in fruits (6%), 6th in cheese (4%) and 7th in olive oil (5,4%).

1,8%

The job market There have been significant shifts in the structure of employment in our prefecture in the last 30 years.

Between 1981 and 2001 the labor force increased by 15% (9,214 people) while at the same time unemployment increased 478,1% (9,806 people). The employed decreased by 1% (592 people).

The largest age group in the labor force is the 30-44 years old (39,7%), which is 38,9% for men and 42,2% for women.

The 67,5% of the labor force is men while 32,5% are women.

Men have the highest percentage in all age groups with the age group of 65 and over being the highest of all (77,2% for men) and the 20-24 years the highest for women (35,4%).

high

A

percentage

of

employment covers the tertiary sector (40.9%) and the primary

sector

(35,4%)

followed

by

the

secondary sector (15.2%). 23,949 people are occupied in the tertiary sector , 8,902 in the secondary and 20,735 in the primary. It is also worth mentioning that participation in the tertiary and primary sectors covers 31.8% and 33.9% of the total in our region.38.9% of employers are

occupied

with

trading

and

maintenance while catering and hotels follow with a percentage of 14%. The 65% of the self employed are occupied with

agriculture,

stock

breeding,

hunting, and forestry. This is followed by construction, which covers 7.8%.

13.1% of employees worker for the government, the armed forces and national insurance followed by 12.9% that are employed in agriculture, stock breeding, hunting and forestry.

Tourism Tourism is continually increasing in Elia as new businesses are established and new hotels are built.

Prosperity Indicators Year Per capita GDP Savings deposits per inhabitant Declared income per inhabitant Income tax per inhabitant Natural population growth / 1000 inhabit Pupils in Secondary Education / 1000 inhabit.

Primary pupils/ 1000 inhabitants Percentage contribution to National Totals GDP Taxed Declared income Income tax Savings Deposits Quoted from ÂŤ Greek prefectures 2004Âť chart 3.1

Prefecture of Elia

2001 2000 2003 2003 2001 2001 2001

2,64 million GRD 0.99 mill GRD 9,3 thousand euro 0.51 thousand euro -3.88 55 49

2001 2003 2003 2003 2002

1.1% 1.2% 0.9% 0.6% 0.7%

National average 4,08 1.79 12.5 1.08 -0.01 68 59

Ranking 50 50 44 42 44 47 47 19 22 23 26 28

prefectures

The indicators that represent our area nowadays

Rating of Elia among the 52 prefectures of Greece

Per capita GDP

Savings Declared Income deposits income tax per inhabitant per per inhabitant inhabitant

GDP

Taxed

Declared Income Savings income tax Deposits

Processed by DATA RC, chart 3.1

Overnight stays represent 34.5% of the stays in the whole region.

Overnight stays of foreigners account for 50% of the overall stays in the region while those of Greek nationals are 21.8% of those in the region.

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change (%)

Population change 1981-2001

prefecture

region

whole country

Processed by DATA RC, chart 3.2

Education 45.5% of the population over 6 years old have a primary education while those who have graduated from secondary school comprise 33.9% of the population. The percentage of

illiteracy in the prefecture is 6% while the region’s is 5.5% and the country’s 4%. The above figures more or less are similar between men and women .

47.3% of men have had a primary school education and 36.1% a secondary. As far as women are concerned 43.7% have had a primary education and 33.3% a secondary.

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Change of population per town

Municipalities Men Pyrgos Alipheira Amaliada Andravida Andritsaina Ancient Olympia Vartholomio Vouprasio Volakos Gastouni Zaharo Iardanos Kastro-Kyllini Lambeia Lasionos Lechaina Pinia Skillous Tragano Figalo Foloi Olena prefecture total. region total country total Processed by DATA RC

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Women

Total

er town and gender 1991-2001

Change Men

Women

Total

Men

Women

Total

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HISTORICAL ELIA

A journey from the past to the present

lia is an Olympic land. Elis and Olympia are not only close to each other but they also brought about and developed the games; organized by Elis and carried out in Olympia.

The Olympic games, which originated in Olympia are now a worldwide event touching the hearts of the whole world. Few events created by man have lasted so long.

This is due to the fact that during the games in Ancient Olympia a holy truce was declared and enforced to permit participants to travel safely to the games. The truce called echeheiria, was a moral obligation towards Zeus, the father of the gods.

The games were believed to have been started by Hercules. The first took place in 776 BC. The temple of Zeus, located in the Altis , was a Doric peripteral. Close by was the temple of Hera , the Echo stoa, the Stadium and many other remains which together with the artifacts that are exhibited in the two museums, attract thousands of visitors every year.

There is extended Greek bibliography

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covering the monuments of Olympia and the exhibits, the most important of which are the following : H. Strategos About the Olympic games in Antiquity, 1871 D.G. Papageorgiou Olympia and the Olympic games, 1890 V. Leonardou The museum of Olympia, 1855 S. Kalisperi Olympia and the Olympic games, Athens 1896 K. Kourouniotis A guide to Olympia, Athens 1904 P. Neratzoulis A guide to the museum of Olympia, Patras 1933 N. Petropoulos A guide to Ancient Olympia, Athens 1936 P. Nikolakopoulos Ancient Olympia, Patras 1954 Z. Papamihalopoulos, Olympia, Athens 1960 S. Photeinos A guide to Olympia, 1961 T. Doxas The light of Olympia, 1968

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X. Dantis Ancient Olympia and the Olympic Ideal, Athens 1981 C. Eliopoulos The Olympic games and the spirit of Olympia, Athens 1984 G. Kontos Olympia and Olympic games, Athens 1992 N. Gialouris Olympia, a guide to the museum, 1993 X. Arapogianni Ancient Olympia the cradle of the Olympic games, Athens 2002 B. Davos Excavations in Ancient Olympia P.G. Koutra Olympia, a guide of the archaeological sites D. Oikonomopoulos the history of Olympia , the Olympic games and Olympic winners G. Farmakis Olympic games, a guide The other great site is Ancient Elis from which Elia took its name. It is situated on the North East of Amaliada. The remains are around a citadel from which you could see the

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plain of Gastouni extending to the Ionian sea.

According to mythology, the first king of Elis was Aethlos. It is in Elis that Hercules cleansed , in a sinlge day, the cattle stables of king Avgeas , the then ruler of Elis. According to Pausanias , when king Iphitos was crowned, he extended the games with events called ÂŤathloiÂť to honor king Aethlios.

The games were held in honor of

Zeus and proved the love the Elians had for sports and athletics in particular.

The discovery of statues in Elis has proven the worship of among others Helios (sun), Selene (moon), Dionysus, Diana, Athena and Mars.

The area has been inhabited since the post-Mycenaean era. It was the administrative centre of Hollow Elis , which also included Pylos, Oinoi, Thalames, Lassion, Killini, Yrmone, Myrsinos, etc.

The most authoritative books for anyone interested to learn more about Elis are the following : D. Boutsikas Ancient Elis, Athens 1975 and 2nd edition, Amaliada, 2002 N. Gialouris, The state of Elis and the sanctuary of Ancient Olympia, 1970 P. Andriopoulos The world of divine Elis and holy Elissa, Athens, 1980 Th. Eliades The mythology of Elia, Athens, 1989 Environmental group of 1st High school of Amaliada Ancient Elis, Amaliada, 1994 N. Gialouris Ancient Elis the cradle of the Olympic games, Athens 1996 One of the most significant monuments in Elia is the temple of Epicurean Apollo, in Figalo. It is in very good condition. It was built by the famous architect Ictinus in 420 BC. It combines all three styles (Doric, Ionian and Corinthian) and is being

renovated at present. Dionysus the god of vines was worshipped in Figalo where there used to be a statue of his as well as games in his honor.

During the Roman occupation, Elis was a member of the Achaean League (191 BC). During this time the monuments of Elis and Olympia were ravaged and sacked by the Romans.

After the victory of Christianity, emperor Theodosius abolished the Olympic games (AD 393) and the pagan temples were converted into Christian churches. In the Byzantine era, Elia together with the rest of the Peloponnese became a province under the name of Achaia. It was at about this time that Slavs settled in the Peloponnese. Also, monasticism

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was established and several monasteries were built in Elia..

The Dormition of the Holy Virgin in Skafidia, Chryssopege in Ano (Upper) Divri, The Dormition of the Holy Virgin in Kato (lower) Divri, Saint Nicholas in Fragopedema, The Presentation of The Blessed Holy Mary in Aghios Ioannis, the Hanging Mary (Kremasti) near Lanthi, Mary ÂŤVlahernaÂť in Kyllini, Aghia Eleousa (The Holy Mercy ) in Lygia, the Catholic of Gastouni, a masterpiece dedicated to the Dormition of Mary (built in AD 920), etc. The Holy Virgin- Fragavilla near Amaliada, Mary of Sepeto (11th century) near

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Zaha in Olympia and Zoodohos Pege (Our Lady, the life-Containing Fount) just above Epitalio.

A notable Byzantine construction is the temple of Palaiopanagia in Manolada (10th century) which was built in the Byzantine style. Other temples that are worth visiting are the temple of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Vartholomio, Saint Nicholas in Vartholomio, Saint George in Kavasila, Saint Demetrius in Kastro (Chlemoutsi), etc.

(Tasos M. Fillipopoulos History of Elia published by Achaikes, 1996, pages 70-74). Most of the above mentioned buildings were built in the

Byzantine style.

During the Frankish rule (1205-1430), Elia was a minor state belonging to the Principality of Achaia or Moreas, which was based in Andravida. The Frankish Bishop was under the Archbishop of Patras.

The Byzantines took over from the Franks (12041430 B.C.) for a short time, however, the collapse of Constantinople in 1453 resulted in the Turkish occupation. The Venetians also ruled Elia in two periods (1463-1479 and 1685-1715).

During the Turkish rule, Gastouni was the capital of Elia and the most important villages were Sabanga (Aghia Mavra), Dervi Tselepi (Amaliada), Delibali (Efira), Imam Tsaousi (Kento) and Souleimanaya (Myrsini), Mousouloubei (Lefkohori), Koulougli (Oinoi), etc.

When the Venetians reconquested the Peloponnese under the leadership of Morozini, Elia became a thema, a province of Achaia. The Venetians also established a diocese with a Latin bishop in Olena.

This was followed by the second Turkish rule, the unsuccessful revolution of Orlof (1770) and the revolution of 1821. The revolution was organized by Philiki Etaireia (the

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friendly association) in Odyssos , Russia. Some of its members were from Elia, P. Anagnostopoulos from Andritsaina, G. Sisiniss from Gastouni and Ch. Vilaetis from Pyrgos.

The latter led the revolt against the Turks in Elia. He cooperated with G. Sisinis and besieged Chlemoutsi to prevent raids from the Turks of Lalas.

However, Ch. Vilaetis was killed somewhere between the villages of Smila and Lantzoi. Sisinis formed a committee responsible for recruitment of fighters and logistics.

The two most important battles fought were the battle of Pyrgos in April 1821 and the battle of Lalas in

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Pousi in June of the same year, in which G. Plapoutas from Palumba in Gortynia and fighters from Cephalonia under Andreas Metaxas took part among others. There were several other battles, in Lechaina in July 1823, in Pyrgos in November 1825 and April 1827 and against the Egyptian Ibrahim’s army in Vartholomio in November 1825 and in Pyrgos on April 6, 1827.

The above information was taken from G.T. Maraziotis Elia’s role in the struggle of 1821, 1981.

S PYRGO

The capital of Elia, a continuously modernized city

Pyrgos, the hospitable city You can walk around our historic sites, enjoy the view from Eparhio, wander about the pedestrian zones and enjoy the great square.

yrgos, the capital of the prefecture is being modernized and developed, aiming at catering for our visitors’ stay.

Pyrgos has one of the biggest and most beautiful squares. Furthermore, the continual renovations carried out

P

are helping our town to transform into a beautiful modern center. The square is dominated by the impressive Latsio town hall, while the square’s extension, Eparhio, offers a unique view of the whole city.

It is worthwhile visiting the Apollo theatre and the municipal market,

Pyrgos Town Hall. A neoclassical building. The landmark of Pyrgos started being constructed in 1977 and was completed in 1985 thanks to the donations by shipping magnate Giannis Latsis.

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The impressive, vast central square of Pyrgos is named in honour of Professor Sakis Karagiorgas .

which has been converted into a museum.

In the dawn of the 20th century the town had a prosperous economy, many cultural activities and an increasing population.

There were industries, well known traders, imports of European brands and exports of local products. The town had its own hospital and the Apollo theatre hosted significant cultural events.

However, after the end of WW2, the town lost its glamour. There were no more industries and the price of the products plummeted while poverty prevailed. As a result large portions of

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The Apollo theatre.

the population left the province and moved to bigger urban centers. 1955 marked an improvement, development again was on the rise.

The town received people from the surrounding area and slowly but

steadily moved towards an era of prosperity.

THE PORT OF KATAKOLO AND PONDIKOKASTRO (mouse castle) Katakolo, the sea port of Pyrgos, is located 13 km from the capital.

A large number of cruise ships use its docks.

There is also a wellorganized marina that caters to private yachts. Katakolo is an

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ideal spot for entertainment and relaxation next to the Ionian sea.

Pyrgos is believed to have first been inhabited by a farmer from Kalavrita called Tsernotas. In 1517 he tried to tame the land in order to feed the livestock he had brought from the mountainous region of Kalavrita.

It seems that the first reed huts were erected in the highest point of the area from Tsernota’s laborers. They also built a tower from which Pyrgos took its name (In Greek Pyrgos means tower or castle).

After a series of catastrophes like earthquakes and famine the town

emerged in 1687 when Turkish Albanians settled in Lala.

The town played an active role in the revolution of 1821 despite having been struck at the time by an earthquake followed by the sacking of Pyrgos by Ibrahim.

After the revolution, it started to play an important role in the economy of the area.

In 1828 it officially became the capital of the area while in 1829 it was visited by the then governor of Greece Kapodistrias.

In 1834 it was named a municipal town by king Otto, which was

A view of Katakolo , the continually developing port of Pyrgos.

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followed by a period of great development and prosperity.

Corinthian raisins and wine started to be produced bringing in a lot of money. The port of Katakolo was built in order to support exports of wine and raisins. The town also changed as bigger houses were built.

The railway line linking Pyrgos to Katakolo was also built then, it was the second line constructed in Greece at the time.

The municipal market was built by Ziller, followed by Apollo theatre.

A few kilometers away from Pyrgos lies Aghios Andreas, a beautiful resort that combines the mountain of

Katakolo, a dead volcano with lush vegetation and the sea. The rocky shore attracts swimmers but especially divers as the seabed is considered entrancing. In ancient times the cape of Katakolo was called Cape Fish as it resembled a dolphin. It is the location of the ancient city of Pheia.

On the north side the ruins of Pondikokastro (mouse castle) could still be seen. The ancient city of Pheia had its port in the cove of Ag. Andreas, just below Pondikokastro, it was the port that served Pissa and Olympia in antiquity.

The citadel of Pheia is believed to

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The ruins of the castle on mount Katakolo.

have been at the same spot where Pondikokastro lies. It was renovated by the Byzantines and used as a castle by them and later by the Franks. Pheia is mentioned by Homer, Thucydides, Polybious, Strabo and Pausanias.

The castle offers a view of the whole area, Elia, Messinia, Arcadia, Achaia and the islands of Zakynthos and Cephalonia.

The beach in Aghios Andreas, one of the most popular beaches near Pyrgos.

PYRGOS MUNICIPAL MARKET

An archaeological museum housed in a ÂŤgemÂť An attraction for visitors

Pyrgos municipal market is one of the greatest accomplishments in the modern history of our city.

It is an imposing building which was only recently converted into a museum.

Visitors could admire this impressive building and its unique exhibition rooms.

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A work of Ziller

The municipal market takes up a whole block and is situated in the centre of the city. It was built around 1880 and is believed to have been designed by Ernst Ziller. It comprises three atria, the central one being longer.

It seems that its location marks the then growth of a trading zone in town.

The building served as the main market venue of the city until 1957 when it was closed down due to the need of renovation.

In 1962 it was decided that it would be turned into a museum and thus was possessed by the state.

The main entrance is from Karaiskaki str., it leads to the reception area of the main atrium where there is a gift shop, a cloakroom room, etc.

The first floor houses administrative offices, a library, rest rooms and meeting rooms. From the first floor, you can also see the showrooms below.

In the basement there is a

Exhibition Rooms

The showrooms are situated on the ground floor. They consist of a three arched complex of extended levels.

multipurpose auditorium which is administered by the municipality, as well as a canteen.

The museum also houses labs where archaeological findings are studied, as well as security posts.

IADA L A M A

A modern town!

Formed by two previous settlements

maliada, a town with a long tradition in intellect and culture is situated in the fertile plain of Elia. The Ionian sea is to the west and green wooded hills are to the east.

It was founded in the mid 19th century when the settlements of Kallitsa and Dervis Tselebi merged.

Most of its inhabitants come from the neighboring mountainous regions and the islands of Zakynthos and Cephalonia. Its economy used to be based on the cultivation and trading of raisins. A growing demand from abroad led to exports and a flourishing economy.

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As a result, Amaliada soon became an important centre while in 1890 it was linked to Athens by rail.

After 1906 when the stock of unsold raisins started to be used as a raw material for wines and spirits, tens of wineries, some of which still exist, were established.

From the period between the two world wars until the 70’s, apart from trading, the town also had several mills and oil presses which signified a shift in the local economy.

In addition, a landmark in the development of Amaliada was the construction of the Penios dam in the late 60’s.

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Named after a queen

ÂŤIt is named after queen Amalia who was enchanted by the town and its inhabitants when she visited Elia with King OttoÂť

In 1891 Amaliada became the capital of the municipality of Elis, taking the place of Gastouni, while in 1907 it became the capital of the municipality of Elissi after Elis had been divided into two other boroughs (Elissi and Elis).

The town has been named after Queen Amalia who was charmed by the locals and the town itself during her tour of Elia with King Otto.

At present, Amaliada is the administrative centre of the homonymous municipality which includes 19 urban districts.

Walking around the town As Amaliada is a comparatively new town it has a functional and organized town plan. The streets are wide and even, offering pleasant walks and bicycle rides. Local buildings offer visitors the opportunity to see the town’s history and sense the renovated picture of the past and the dynamic present.

The great warehouse complex of ASO bears witness to the history of the raisin trade. If you walk in the main streets like Othonos Amalias, Daliani, Kalavriton, Pyrronos and Archaias Elidas, you notice the neoclassical architecture.

There are many neoclassic buildings

ÂŤA turning point in the history of Amaliada was the construction of Penios damÂť.

on the main streets of the town. The Tatani house and the Karakundio mansion are also worth seeing as well as the Marounda mansion and the Beloyiannis building. There is also a monument in memory of Beloyiannis, who was known as the man with the carnation.

Tourists could also visit the Amaliada folklore museum which has exhibits that fall into three categories : tools of local folklore art, local industrial products and crafts and finally exhibits from abroad.

The building also houses a radio museum, which is a private collection

owned by the former mayor S. Beratis, one of the founders of the local radio station. Finally, there is an exhibition of traditional toys made of reed, which was donated

by Ch. Anastasopoulos.

The monastery of Fragavilla The Byzantine monastery of Fragavilla, one of the most significant monuments of Elia, is situated in Amaliada. It is located in a beautiful tranquil spot and the interior is decorated with interesting murals.

ELIS The ancient capital which hosted the Olympic games for more than a millennium.

An impressive ancient mega city ncient Elis, the capital of the Elean state was the permanent host of the ancient Olympic games for more than a thousand years. Its ruins are situated in the area between Peneios river to the north, the hill of Paliopyrgos to the east and southeast and the Lagadi ravine to the west and southwest.

It is close to Amaliada and takes up quite a large area bordering with the mountainous zone (ancient Akroreia) and the plain (Hollow Elis).

Excavations that were carried out from the early 20th century until the 90’s have brought to light parts of the Agora and the main city; currently a

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program is under way to emerge the archaeological site.

Pausanias, among others, visited Elis in the 2nd century AD and found, despite the Roman occupation, a flourishing town still maintaining the city planning of classical times. The city consisted of a theatre, stoas, gymnasiums, a hippodrome, temples, houses and workshops , all part of a centre that played a major role in the spirit of sports both in antiquity as well as in modern times.

Today anybody could visit the site and feel the ancient elements which reflect the heyday and the power of a city that for nearly 1,500 years was, for a few months every four years, the

The main city seen from an aerial photograph.

A marble statuette of Aphrodite.

A clay figurine of Athena

A marble statuette of Pan.

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Roman baths

religious, political and sports centre of the whole Greek world.

Mythology directly associates the city to Hercules. One of his labors, the cleansing of the stable of king Augeas, took place in Elis, while his descendent Oxilos led and settled with Aetolians in the area.

During Oxilos’ rule (12th

century BC) the first settlement was built and a race to the temple of Zeus in Olympia was hosted. It is interesting to know that the main road axis of E l i s coincides with the current road g o i n g through the a r c h a eological site.

According to Pausanias, the sports

Funeral gifts found in a child’s grave.

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complex included three gymnasiums, a large walled area containing plane trees (Xistos), a smaller confined area, which was the wrestling area (Tetragonon) and a third enclosed area which contained the Bouleuterion (council chamber) of the Elians (Lalichmion). The three gymnasiums had altars for the gods and statues of the heroes.

The Elian Agora was an open space with arcades, streets, temples and statues. Owing to its open space, the Agora was also used for the training of horses.

Among the buildings was Ellanodikaion, which housed the official judges of the games. There was also a building in which 16 women were responsible for making the veil of goddess Hera and organizing the special races for virgin girls in the stadium of Olympia in honour of the goddess. The 16 women also had to maintain the cult

Part of a mosaic floor from a 3rd century AD building.

A prehistoric grave found in the SW of the Agora.

of Dionysus in Elis and honor Achilles, who was worshipped as a hero and protector of athletes since he had organized games in the memory of Patroclos.

Between the Agora and the river there was a temple dedicated to Dionysus, who was especially worshipped by Elians. The temple contained a statue made by Praxiteles. In the above area is the

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Coins from the mint of Elis dating back to Classical and Hellenistic times.

two sides.

Elian theatre In the SW part of situated in an Theatre, arcade, the Agora, idyllic site facing gymnasiums, temples, excavations have the river. The revealed a whole area is of houses and workshops complex of great interest as it formed a city buildings next to was used in the ancient main different ways which would play road which went from pre-historic a major role in athletics through the city times until the from North to Roman era. The both in antiquity South and reached theatre as a and in modern timesÂť the Agora. The building is an NW and highest interesting piece of work dating back to the 4th century part of the site had been used in preBC. It comprises a stage made of historic times as a cemetery. The stone and a land filled hollow which whole area is full of classical and rests on strong retaining walls on the Hellenistic buildings that were

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1. CITADEL 2. MUSEUM 3. SANCTUARIES 4. AGORA 5. MAIN CITY 6 .GYMNASIUMS 7. THEATRE

A sanctuary on the NW side of the Agora.

dedicated to worship. These buildings known as propyla were used to place clay figurines, mainly of goddesses. There is also a building with a stoa situated in the Eastern part used for worship and built in the 2nd century BC. In the same site is a temple, dating back to the 5th century BC, with a stone altar.

Excavations carried out in the past and still going on have revealed interesting facts. They have proven that Elis was a significant and well-organized city worthy of the importance and fame of the panHellenic games organized by Olympia.

The

unification of the smaller villages in the early 5th century BC allowed the city to remodel and to acquire a city plan by forming parallel roads from east to west and north to south. A part of a street, which seems like an avenue, is impressive as it goes through the city from the south towards the Agora flanked by splendid arcades. The same street, together with two others which cross it form the western part of the block.

The ÂŤwesternÂť cemetery of Elis has been mostly brought to light. It starts at the western gate of the city and extends on both sides of the road which connected Elis with Olympia.

The excavation of tombs on the side of the present country road proves that the current road lies over the ancient one. Numerous burial gifts

a. A bronze metal sheet with parts of an archaic inscription about legal matters. b. A clay floral crest tile from an archaic public building.

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Olympia. such as earthen ÂŤHundreds of graves The ruins of an pots and jewellery found dating back to Classical, early Christian basilica with in Classical, Hellenistic mosaic floors Hellenistic and and Roman times , full of found at the Roman tombs important Cercerean stoa prove the as well as standard of funeral gifts like vessels living of the and gold, silver and bronze e n g r a v e d tombstones and inhabitants. jewellery are indicative other artifacts Tombs dating of the standards reveal that even back from prein the early Mycenaean of living of the local Christian era, times to the inhabitants.Âť Elis was still Roman era inhabited and have been found in the eastern part of Elis next maintained its glamour. to the mountain road leading to

The ruins of the temple of the Roman emperors.

Hermes by Praxiteles .

One of the greatest works of the 4th century BC.

ANCIENT OLYMPIA A holy land of universal significance..

A HOLY LAND SYMBOL OF PEACE, TRUCE AND BROTHERHOOD

It’s worth visiting Elia just to see and walk on the land that bore the Olympic games.

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ANCIENT OLYMPIA A holy land of universal eminence... edicated to Olympian Zeus, the father of the gods, Olympia is where the Olympic games were born and took place in antiquity. Nowadays it is a universal point of reference. The holy city, symbol for most countries of peace, truce and brotherhood.

One of the most significant sancturaries of antiquity, the sanctuary of Altis (which means grove) was situated in an idyllic tranquil valley between Cronius hill and the confluence of the rivers Alpheos and Kladeos.

The grounds include the main religious buildings and votive offerings to the

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«Just as water is t, the most precious elemen e most and gold emerges as th valuable good, more Just as the sun radiates than any other star. a In the same way Olympi shines and shades all other games» (Pindarus’ first Olympic ode)

Archaeologists started searching for the cradle of the Olympic games in the early 18th century.

The first systematic excavations were carried out between 1875 and 1881 by the German Archaeological Institute and funded by the German state. Most buildings in the sanctuary and artefacts (130 statues, 400 inscriptions, 6,000 coins, etc) were discovered at a depth of 5-7 metres.

sanctuary while houses for priests, baths, training buildings and guest houses have been discovered in the surrounding area.

Pan-Hellenic place of worship

At about 1200 BC the Aetolians, a Doric tribe led by Oxilos, settled in the area of the sanctuary. That’s probably when the worship of Zeus started to transform Olympia into a place of worship.

The first buildings in the sanctuary were erected during the early Archaic period and the games were first held in honor of Zeus in 776 BC. The games were of religious importance

and had a solemn ceremonial. The most significant dedications of this period are the brilliantly made bronze tripods and cauldrons as well as weapons. The sanctuary was finally completed at the end of the 4th century BC. However, new buildings were erected even in Roman times such as baths, villas, an aqueduct, etc. Olympia also served promotional purposes and as a result many important celebrities participated in the games.

In AD 267 a wall was erected for security reasons as there were fears of an attack by the Erules. This resulted in the destruction of many buildings as parts of them were used in the construction of the wall.

The sanctuary of Zeus fell into disuse

The temple of Zeus is in the centre of Altis

in AD 393 when the Byzantine emperor Theodosius I issued a decree banning pagan worship. Later on, in AD 426 Theodosius II ordered the destruction of the Altis building. In AD 522 and 551 respectively, two strong earthquakes led to the total destruction of the sanctuary.

A small Christian settlement was formed in the site of Olympia in the 5th and 6th century AD and Pheidias’ workshop was turned into a Christian basilica.

A while later the flooding of rivers Alpheos and Kladeos as well as the landslides from Cronius covered the sanctuary. For centuries Olympia would be forgotten until the first excavations took place in the 19th century.

This temple, a work of the Elian architect Livon, was a great example of harmony and moderation.

Crete, they determined the length of the stadium and held races According to offering oloaster tradition, the gods wreaths to the were the first to winners. Among compete in those to whom Olympia. Zeus the games have beat Saturn in also been wrestling, Apollo attributed to are beat Hermes in Neleas, Pelias running and Andinoos. and Pissos from Mars in boxing.

Pissa.

Strabo Many heroes are also mentioned as founders of the believed the games were first held by Oxilos, king of the Heraklides who games.

In Mycenaean tradition, founder of settled in Elia after 1200 BC. Later on, the games was Pelops. After defeating they were reorganized by Iphitus who Oinomaus, Pelops founded the games came to an agreement (a holy truce) in his rival’s honor in order to cleanse with Lykourgos, the king and himself but also to thank the gods legislator of Sparta as well as who had offered him victory. Cleisthenis, king of Pissa. By that time Ippodameia founded women’s games, the games became pan-Hellenic. which were called Heraia, in honor of Written sources from antiquity mention 776 BC as the year when the Hera.

According to another myth, the games games were founded, from that year are attributed to the demigod on the names of the Olympic winners Hercules, who also founded the were mentioned (and completed , of chariot races. Hercules introduced course, much later). oloasters, which he had brought from The inhabitants of Pissa held the the land of the Hyperboreans and games from 688 to 572 BC when the planted them in the sanctuary Elians conquered Pissa and started to control the games themselves. The forming the boundaries of the Altis.

According yet to another myth heyday of the games was in the 5th Hercules Idaios with his four century BC. In Hellenistic times the brothers, known as Courites or games lost their initial character and Daktili, arrived at Olympia from involved professional sports events, The games and tradition

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A model of the sanctuary of Olympia.

something that continued in the Roman era. They were finally abolished in AD 383 by Theodosius I after 293 Olympiads.

What to see

1. Gymnasium.

A big rectangular building (120X220 m ) with a spacious courtyard in the middle and Doric stoas on its four sides. It was built in the 2nd century BC, while at the end of the 2nd century a Corinthian amphiprostyle palaestra was added. This is where athletes who needed a lot of space trained in running, discus and javelin.

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The gymnasium hasn’t been fully excavated yet while its western side has been swept away by river Kladeos.

2. The Palaestra.

A square building (66.35X67.75 m) built in the 3rd century BC, consists of a peristyle courtyard surrounded by utility rooms like dressing rooms, an eleothession (a special room where athletes were covered in olive oil), a konistrion (Where athletes put dust or sand on their bodies), baths and also classrooms with bences where classes were held. This is where athletes trained for wrestling, boxing and jumps.

3. The Theokeleon.

It was the official residence of the Theokoloi, the priests of Olympia, who were responsible for the sanctuary and the sacrifices. It was a rectangular building consisting of a peristylean courtyard surrounded by rooms, which was built in two stages.

The first in the 4th century BC and the second in Roman times.

4. The Heroon.

A circular building which contained an altar dedicated to an unknown hero. It contains a Hellenistic inscription with the word Heroos (Hero). It is believed that initially, it served as a bath before being converted into a memorial.

5. The workshop of Pheidias.

An oblong rectangular building with two colonnades. It was built around 440-430 BC and is the building in which Pheidias created the chryselephantine statue of Zeus.

Many tools have been discovered there as well as glass jewellery and clay matrixes that Pheidias used while making the statue. A dark oenochoe found has the name of the sculptor engraved on it. In the 5th century BC the workshop was converted into a three-aisled Christian basilica.

6. The baths- The Western baths.

Baths and a swimming pool were built near Kladeos in the 5th century BC. The baths were extended around

Lapithida

300 BC. in Roman times the so called Western baths were built near the original ones. The floors were decorated with ornate mosaic, some of which are still in good condition.

7. The House of the Paidrints.

On the south of Pheidias’ workshop there are ruins of a building which probably belonged to the Paidrints, who were responsible for the maintenance of the chryselephantine statue of Zeus as well as other statues in the sanctuary.

8. Roman Guesthouses.

In Roman times guesthouses were built near the Western baths and on the west of Pheidias’ workshop. It is a

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square building with many rooms and mosaic floors.

9. The Leonidaion.

It is a big guesthouse built in 330 BC. It takes its name from Leonidas or Leonides of Naxos who was the donator and architect of the building.

It was used as a guesthouse for official visitors. It is a square building surrounded by 138 Ionian pillars. In the centre there is a periostyle courtyard with 44 Doric pillars. The rooms were located between the rows

11. The South Stoa.

It marks the southern boundary of the sanctuary. It dates from the 4th century BC and it had indoor Doric and Corinthian colonnades.

of pillars. In Roman times it was used to accommodate Roman officials.

12. The Bouleuterion (Council Chamber).

It housed the council of the sanctuary, the Olympic council. Its construction started in the 6th century and had been completed by the 4th century BC. It consists of two oblong arched buildings, which are connected by a square building and an Ionian stoa on their east side. The square building between them housed the statue and altar of Zeus Horkios to whom the athletes and judges swore the required oath before the games started.

10. Roman Baths.

In Roman times, baths were erected in

13. Temple of Zeus.

It was a gigantic Doric peripteral

The Crypt; it was called so because in the 1st century BC an arch was built over it. It has been restored.

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different parts of the sanctuary. These are the Southern Baths (to the south of the temple of Zeus) and the so called South West Baths of Leonidaion.

Their floors were covered with mosaics some of which can still be seen.

Apollo

temple (64.12X27.68 and 20.25 m. height) with 6X13 columns, being the most prominent building in the Altis.

It was the work of Libon, an architect from Elis. It is the biggest temple in the Peloponnese, built between 470-456 BC. It was dedicated to the sanctuary.

It is considered a perfect example of Doric temple building. The temple consists of a pronaos, a cella and an

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opisthodomos. On the floor of the pronaos there is a Hellenistic mosaic depicting Tritons. The statue of Zeus, a work of Pheidias around 430 BC was inside the cella, in the central nave. It was one of the seven wonders of the world, 12 m. tall, depicting Zeus seated in his throne. He held a scepter in his left hand and winged Nike in his right. When the games were

As you approach the archaeological site, you see the bridge of river Kladeos, which flows by the sanctuary and discharges into Alpheos. On the right bank are a series of hills. Behind Alpheos , you could see mount Lapithas and Typaion. To the north and east are pine clad hills that surround picturesque villages. The hill closest to the sanctuary is Kronio.

abolished in AD 393, the statue was moved to Constantinople where it was destroyed in a fire in 475.

14. South West Building.

It was built circa 400 BC in the south west side of Altis. It was the sanctuary of Hestia. In Roman times it underwent many additions and was extended to the east.

15. The Echo Stoa.

A long stoa; built in the mid 4th century BC to separate the Altis from the Stadium. It had an outdoor Doric colonnade and an indoor, probably Corinthian one. It takes its name from its acoustics as an echo was produced.

It is also known as Heptaechos.

Another name it had was ÂŤPoikili stoaÂť (varied stoa) because of the

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The ancient stadium which was the venue of shot put in the Athens Olympics in 2004.

paintings which decorated its walls. In about the 3rd century BC two high Ionian pillars were erected carrying the gold-plated statues of king Ptolemy II and his wife Arsinoi.

16. The Crypt.

It is the entrance to the Stadium, built in the 3rd century BC to connect the stadium to the sanctuary. It is a narrow arched passage way which in its west had a gate with Corinthian pillars.

17. Stadium It is the stadium we could see nowadays, the third one built, in the 5th century BC. The initial Archaic stadium was simple, without proper embankments. Its track is 212.54 m.

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long and 28.5 m. wide. The stone boundaries marking the starting and finishing lines are 192.28 m. away from each other. The embankments didn’t have stone seats apart from a few for dignitaries. The south embankment seated the Hellanodikes ( judges) and on the opposite side, in the north, was the Altar of Demeter Chamini. The stadium had a capacity of 45,000 spectators who sat on the ground.

18. The Hippodrome.

This is where chariot races and horse races were held. It was to the south of the stadium and according to Pausanias it must have measured 600 m long and 200 m. wide. Its actual position is not known as it was buried due to alluvial soil.

19. Zanes.

The 12 bases of Zanes, or statues of Zeus were along the retaining wall.

They were bronze statues of Zeus which were dedicated to the sanctuary by those fined for cheating during the games.

20. Metroon.

It was a small Doric peripteral temple with 6X11 columns, dedicated to Rea (Cybele) the mother of the gods. It was built in the early 4th century BC. In Roman times it was used to worship the Roman emperors. The statues found in the Metroon could be seen in the museum of Olympia.

Miltiades’ helmet

21. The Treasures.

They are built on the southern embankment of Kronios hill. They are small buildings in the form of temples, donated to the sanctuary by various cities to house valuable dedications to Zeus. They started being built in the 6th century BC and were completed in the mid 5th century.

The Palaestra.

Alexander the Great

The Phillipeion

A helmet dating 620-580 BC

A bronze horse (7th century BC)

22. The Nymphaeum.

It was an aqueduct built

by Herod Atticus in honor of his wife Rigila.

It is semi-circled with two small circular temples on the ends and two split-level tanks.

There were niches on the 2-storey semicircular wall decorated with statues of Antonine and Herod Atticus. It was built circa AD 160.

It was an important water work which solved the problem of water shortage which existed in Olympia

especially during the games.

23. The Pre-historic Building.

In the SE of the Heroon, in a lower layer there is the foundation of a midHelladic arched building (2000-1600 BC). It is the oldest construction relic in the sanctuary.

24. The Temple of Hera.

It is a Doric peripteral temple with 6X16 columns built circa 7th century BC. Initially, the

A bronze charioteer

columns and the entablature were wooden. Gradually, over many centuries they were replaced with stone. As a result, it is possible to discern the development of the Doric style, mainly in the capital. The temple housed the discus of the holy truce as well as many other valuable Athena objects. In the museum you could see Hermes

by Praxiteles which was found in the cella of the temple as

well as the clay central akroterion of the temple. This temple of Hera is one of the oldest Doric temples in Greece.

25. The Altar of Hera.

It is situated in front of the temple of Hera and it is where the Olympic torch was lit every four years.

26. The large Altar of Zeus.

It was situated in the centre of the Altis, SE of the temple of Hera, unfortunately, there are no remains left. The altar was large, shaped in a cone formed by the ashes of the sacrifices and the sacred hearth of Prytaneion.

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The museum of the Olympic games and the archaeological museum, which are next to the archaeological site and receive thousand of visitors.

times. Building materials have been discovered in lower layers dating back to the early Helladic times.

27. The Pelopeion.

It was a tomb (a cenotaph) dedicated to the hero Pelops. It lies on a small mound dating back to the Mycenaean

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28. The Philippeion.

A circular building with 18 Ionian columns externally and Corinthian semicolumns in the interior. It was dedicated by Phillip II, father of Alexander the Great, after whom it takes its name, after the battle of Chaironea in 338 BC. It was completed in 336 BC by Alexander as his father had been

assassinated. It was a beautiful building which contained a semicircular pedestal with five chryselephantine statues of the royal family ( P h i l l i p , Alexander, Olympias, Amyndas and Euridike) by the s c u l p t o r Leochares.

29. The Prytaneion.

The official residence of the Prytaneis, the officials of the sanctuary. The

The archaeological site

building is located in the NW corner of the Altis. It is a square building which started being built in the 5th century BC followed by additional work.

It housed the sacred hearth and the fire that was never extinguished.

One of the chambers was used during the games for banquets in honor of Olympic winners and dignitaries.

« Anyone who has once experienced a winter storm with dazzling lightning in the sky above the valley of Alpheos or who was frightened by a loud thunder during a stifling summer day, wouldn’t be surprised that the most prominent temple of lightning bearer Zeus, father of the Gods, is situated in this remote corner of the western Peloponnese» (Klaus Herman, Olympia)

THE CITADEL OF ANCIENT ALIPHEIRA

The temple of Athena and the ancient myths... he myths of Alipheira date back to the cataclysm, they talk about the rescue of Defkalion and Pera, they say that it was here where the goddess Athena was born, springing out of the head of Zeus in full armour, after he had been hit on the head with a hammer by Hephaistos. It is here, that king Likaon was turned into a wolf by Zeus after he had served the god human flesh.

The above ancient myths refer to the first settlements of Alipheira and prove that this land has been inhabited since the early Helladic times as they mention cannibalism among its inhabitants . The great walls of the castle which date back to pre-Homeric times lead us to conclude that the oldest settlement was established in about the 3rd millennium BC. Alipheira was continuously inhabited through the classical era, the Roman empire and the Byzantine era .

During Classical times, after the Persian wars, the Alipheireans built a majestic

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The stone bridge of Tsemberouls in the area of Kallithea in the municipality of Alipheira

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The area offers o magnificent view of the valley of Alpheos and the primeval ravines of Kelados and Triton.

temple in the castle in honor of Athena to show their gratitude towards her for their victory over the Persians.

Pausanias and Polybious mention that the Alipheireans built the temple in honor of Athens as they believed that their land was her birthplace. The temple was dedicated to Tritonide Athena as at the spot she was born there was a fresh water spring which was associated with the grand waterfalls of Triton.

They also say that Athena’s statute was huge, bronze and a work of great craftsmanship by Hypatodoros.

Here you could see the creative role of rivers in this civilization which flourished in the area in primeval times.

The temple of Athena is situated on the highest point of the citadel of ancient Alipheira. It overlooks the valley of Alpheos, the primeval ravines of Kelados and Triton, the valley of Diagontos, Homeric Aipi to the south and finally Isova and the Ionian sea.

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ANCIENT FIGALO

The kingdom of oracles and wine drinking (from the book : «my best weekends»

by Photini Pipili (A.A. Livanis publications)

ntil recently, the village was known as Pavlitsa, which had nothing to do with its ancient name. Figalo with its red tiled roofs, and elderly population is a small nest of people scattered above the famous waterfalls of Neda. Before being struck by earthquakes and neglect Pavlitsa and neighboring Perivola were architectural gems. Not many of the traditional roofs are left intact, while its history during the Turkish occupation is marked by a fountain which is situated in the outskirts of the village to the west in the direction of the archaeological site.

There’s an amazing description of the Albanian residents of Pavlitsa. When travelers were

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«The Figaleans are not only distinguished erection of the temple in Bassae but also for their wealth and piety»

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The temple of Athena and Zeus the Saviour

heading towards Neda, they met them and hired them as guides. ÂŤThey greatly differed from the Arcadian farmers, they had different features in their skin colour and manners. The men wore kilts, not pleated and tightly wrapped around the waist but like hanging tunics with a broad belt made of leather and wool. A fine turban was wrapped around their fez. Similar to the clothes worn in Ioannina and MitsikeliÂť It is an interesting fact that according to the author most of the Albanians living in the Peloponnese settled in this valley.

You could see everything in Figalos. You could take in the beauty of the scenery while drinking a cool glass of beer in the yard of the tavern which opened last year. You meet Fondas who gave up his life in Athens and grills steaks now while repeating that the village belongs to its depths, where the kingdom of Figalos is still sleeping.

Figalos, son of king Lykaon of the Arcadian city of Lykosoura established a mighty kingdom during the 7th century BC. He is mentioned by many,

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The big waterfall in Figalos

Herodotus, Dionysus Allikarnaseus, Pausanias.

They say that his might was based on the fact that in antiquity the river Neda was navigable.

Archaeologists have discovered hawsers, anchorages where boats were moored on the spot where the narrowest and most inaccessible canyon of Neda opens up towards the river’s outflow in the Ionian sea in Elaia. It was one of the most important cities in Arcadia. A proof of this is the four km. long wall , which is still in good condition. Systematic excavations started in the 90’s and have already unearthed important relics.

The Figaleans, being good Arcadians, were always allies of the Messenians and enemies of the Spartans.

From the end of the 8th century up to the 5th century BC they fought off the Spartans. During the 2nd Messenian war, the Spartans outnumbered the Arcadians and conquered Figalos. The Arcadians then appealed to the Delphic oracle and were told that if they were helped by their neighbors from the Megalopolis basin, the Oresthaseans, then they would be liberated once again. Indeed, the youth of Oresthasia hastened to assist the Figaleans but they were annihilated. In recognition for their contribution, the Figaleans erected an impressive monument in their agora. Later the Figaleans were at war with the Aetoleans who had

Ruins in Figalos/ the site of Bassae

advanced into the Peloponnese and had reached their land.

Then the Figaleans acceded to Phillip V and managed with the help of the Macedonians to liberate their land. After that they lived in peace till Christian times. The inhabitants of Figalos were not only distinguished from the temple they built in Bassae. Excavations have brought to light numerous artifacts that prove their wealth and piety. According to Pausanias, they ordered a marble statue of Arrachion, a wrestler who had been twice an Olympic winner but died under his opponent’s lock while wrestling in the Olympic games. Despite his death, the Elians posthumously pronounced him the winner His statue hasn’t been found yet. You have to visit Kourdoubouli where there is a temple dedicated to Athena and Zeus the savior. The site offers a remarkable view to the Ionian sea and river Neda. Deep in the cella, a cubic stone pedestal was found with a large rectangular stud used for placing statues. In front of it lay a table for offerings, while three pedestals were found on the floor, one of which was bronze. On its basis there is an inscription of a votive offering in the Arcadian dialect from which it was assumed that somebody called Evagoras

The Dormition of The Virgin.

The wall of Figalos.

donated the bronze statue of Kallikrates to Athena and Zeus the Savior. Among the other findings there is a marble head of a young man, several figurines of different types, statues of women, and extremely small replicas of boats- which prove that Neda was navigable, as Pausanias had mentioned. Three coins have also been found in excellent condition as well as piles of shells and an intact storage jar.

The wealth of Figalo will need lots of money and effort in order to be unearthed as it is buried under the village itself.

I remember in my childhood going to the local shop to have a sweet and listen to stories. I had seen with my own eyes salt being rubbed by means of a marble female

ÂŤApart from being rich, and mighty warriers the Figaleans enjoyed the vintage wine which they producedÂť

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Turkish fountain

hand from a statue. The foundations of old houses and other building materials coexist with pieces of ancient marble and remains from neighboring temples.

We are still on the hill of Kourdouboulo facing north and enjoying the view. A small house dominates the typical Arcadian barren landscape, this little house, as you’re going to find out is important. Now, let me tell you, the inhabitants of Figalos apart from being rich and mighty soldiers were also well-known wine drinkers. They boozed it up with their own top quality wines and sold what was left. According to Pausanias, they had a temple of Dionysus in their city decorated at its base with laurels and ivy. Besides, according to G. Hadjidakis’ etymological explanation the word «Fialeia» which is found in ancient scripts together with Figalos, derives from «Fiali», a wine vessel.

A bit further from Kourdobouli hill, northwards, you could see an impressive fortification built in the 5th century BC. If you follow the signs to the

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archaeological site, you’ll be able to walk in the same road people did in antiquity, as it has been restored up to a point. It is the road that led to the village of Stomio and to Neda where there is a cemetery dating from Hellenistic times. As we return to the village we’re heading east ending at the prominent ancient fountain of Figalos, one of the most significant in Greece, according to Pausanias. Let me describe it to you. It is situated under a huge plane tree and was erected between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC. As you walk

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The chapel of the Virgin Mary

towards the fountain on your left you can see a unique chapel. It is the Byzantine church of the Dormition of the Virgin built circa 13th-14th century. It is built on the foundations of an ancient temple and the building materials used apparently belonged to ancient structures. The church has a low ceiling and the icons need to be restored, however, the whole atmosphere is emotive. According to Pausanias, there used to be a temple of Artemis the savior in Figalos and it was probably here.

You could also see Asproneri (white waters), the well-known waters of the waterfall which springs out of the ground , under the village.

Kotilio - known in antiquity as mount Elaion is nearby. This is where the holy cave of Melaina Demeter was. According to the legend, Demeter was furious with the abduction of Persephone, so she dressed in black and sought refuge in the cave hiding for a year. The god Pan was in the area hunting when he saw Demeter, he told Zeus ,who sent the fates to find her and persuade her to leave the cave. Quite often people try to discover the holy cave, some insist they’ve found it but refuse to disclose its location lest the goddess gets angry.

The sanctuary of Evrinomi used to be in the confluence of Neda and Lymakas.

Evrinomi was a sea goddess, half woman, half fish. She was the goddess who

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«Our short walk ends at the rushing crystal clear waters of the ancient springs of Figalia, one of the most significant in Greece according to Pausanias»

formed the sky and the earth, the sea, the mountains, the stars and the rivers.

Evidence has shown that she was only worshipped in Arcadia.

Just below the village of Figalos there is a body of water which forms a high waterfall surrounded by rocks . There is a sign in the village which leads you there.

The information about the temple of Epicurean Apollo and the findings of Figalos have been obtained from publications by the archaeologist and curator of Olympia Xeni Arapoyianni. The temple of Epicurean Apollo in Bassae (Ministry of Culture Publication).

Excavating in Figalos and History of wine.

The information about Evrinomi comes from Pedro Olaya’s Book of Greece.

Ancient fountain

BASSAE IN FIGALOS «CONCEALED» A MASTERPIECE

∂picurean ∞pollo A magnificent temple, one of the best preserved ancient monuments.

A daring building in its time.

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he magnificent temple of Epicurean Apollo, one of the greatest temples of antiquity is situated in the SW of Andritsaina in an awesome and wild mountainous area.

The temple is 14 km from Andritsaina, on an altitude of 1,130 m on mount Kotilio. In this location, which in ancient times was called Bassae (meaning little vale in the rocks) the inhabitants of nearby Figalos had established a sanctuary in the 7th century BC dedicated to Apollo Bassita. The name Epicurus was given to Apollo in 650 BC during the wars against the Spartans.

The temple of Apollo is one of the best preserved monuments of classical times; coming only second after the temple of Hephaestus in Athens. It is a harmonious building made of excellent marble.

It was built circa 420-400 BC over an older temple.

Pausanias, the traveler, who visited and admired it in the 2nd century AD mentions that it was built by Ictinus. It holds a special place in the history of Greek architecture as it ingeniously combines archaic elements dictated by the local religious tradition with daring modern ideas its creator had. It is a Doric peripteral temple orientating north to south 14.48 m wide and 38.24 m long.

The extremely oblong plan, the number of columns (6X15 instead of the contemporary norm of 6X13), their arrangement are all typically archaic, similar to the great temple of Apollo in Delphi. They coexist

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though with characteristics of classical Athenian architecture: the refinement of the columns, the low height of the footing and the entablure, also the spaciousness of the vestibules and the opisthodomos. The originality of the monument lies in the formation of the interior.

The cella has columns on three sides, just like the Parthenon and the temple of Hephaestus in Athens (Thesio), however, the columns on the long sides are not free. They come out of the walls like fine cross sections (similar to those in the archaic temple of Hera in Olympia) and end in Ionian semi-columns with particular capitals and bases. In the narrow side of the cella, just opposite the entrance, the free column (maybe also the last two, in the same line semi-

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ÂŤ In a shower of light , this building touches the sky as if seeking its protector Apollo Phoebus.

What beauty, what a construction...Âť

columns) was the first Corinthian capital in history.

The colonnade supported an Ionian entablure with a sculpted frieze, which covered all four sides of the cella. It was 31 m long depicting the battles between the Amazons and the Centaurs. The above reliefs have been in the British Museum since 1814. Behind the free Corinthian column, in the area where other temples have the adytum, there is an enclosed space which is connected with the cella but faces east, for religious purposes, through a door which opens towards the east side. All the above helped the interior to emerge and were a great innovation which decisively influenced the development of architecture in the coming centuries.

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The temple is made of local limestone while the capitals of the cella, some parts of the ceiling and roof , as well as the sculpted parts are made of marble. Ruination started taking place in Roman times, from human intervention and earthquakes.

The friezes are a real masterpiece consisting of 23 marble plaques.

The eleven ones on the western side depicted battles between Centaurs (Lapethes against Centaurs) and the eleven ones on the eastern side battles between Amazons and Athenians. The central plaque depicted Apollo, who with the assistance of Artemis brought about justice that had been disturbed by the bloody battles. It is a genuine masterpiece, the vividness and the expressions of the figures make it one of the best decorations ever sculpted in antiquity. Unfortunately, those unique reliefs were looted during the Turkish occupation by Europeans.

Nowadays, most of them are exhibited in the British Museum, while others are in the Louvre and in the museum of Munich. There also used to be a 12 foot bronze statue of Apollo which, according to Pausanias, was moved to the temple of Lykeos Zeus.

At present the temple maintains the form it took after being restored by the Archaeological Society in the early 20th century. Since 1965, the Ministry of Culture has undertaken the duty of maintaining and protecting the monument.

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I N T E R E S T I N G

F A C T S

Reason of building

gratitude to Apollo for saving inhabitants of Figalo from the plague

Type of temple

three styles Doric, Ionian, Corinthian

Year of discovery

1765 by French architect Joachim Bosse

Year of looting

1812 by Europeans who stole the 23 plaques of the frieze

Subject of frieze

Battles between Lapethes and Centaurs Battles between Amazons and Athenians.

The canopy which protects the sensitive building materials from the extreme weather conditions in the area together with the antiseismic scaffold are temporary and will be used for as long as it is required until renovation has finished.

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Noteworthy bridges They still prove the innovation and skill of medieval and modern craftsmen.

he bridges of Elia like most bridges in the Peloponnese were built by craftsmen from Lagadia. The best-known bridges are those in Ladon and Alpheos.

It is surprising how craftsmen used their innate techniques when building a bridge. Just before the bridge was ready for use, craftsmen would paint a saint in a recess in order to protect it. They would also place a bell under the bridge as it was believed that when the bell rang, the weather would be bad.

Several bridges in Elia are of historical significance and visitors will see them when visiting mountainous areas. The old bridges have played a vital role in the local economy since the Middle Ages.

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One of the most characteristic traditional spots in the town

ANDRITSAINA

«The Lady» of Elia!

Built in a captivating mountainous landscape, it is known for its stone houses and its cobblestone lanes.

It possess a remarkable history especially during the Revolution.

ndritsaina, the «Stone town» is a picturesque small country town. It is situated along the boundaries with Arcadia, on the west of Karitaina and 80 km from Tripolis. It is built amphitheatrically on the slopes of a mountain, among a captivating green mountainous landscape. Its splendid two and three storey mansions as well as the cobblestone lanes are impressive.

The village developed during the Frankish rule in the 12th and 13th centuries and is mentioned in the Chronicle of Moreas. It played a vital role during the Greek Revolution in 1821 and was burnt down by Ibrahim’s army in 1826. At present, the population has dwindled due to emigration. In summer though it is visited by holidaymakers. The town offers guesthouses, cafes and taverns which are open all year round. The locals are mainly occupied with agriculture and stockbreeding.

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THE HISTORIC LIBRARY The renowned library of Andritsaina,

The square of Andritsaina, lying under the shade of plane trees.

Once a week it hosts a market of traditional products.

one of the most significant in Greece, is housed in the high school in the entrance of the village. It was established in 1840 from a donation made by A. Nikolopoulos, a great 19th century scholar and humanist who lived in Paris. It possess rare publications of Greek and foreign books as well as manuscripts dating back to the 16th and 17th century. It also has documents from the Revolution and a folklore collection. It is not yet open to the public.

THE MIGHTY FOUNTAIN There is a picturesque square in the town centre beneath plane trees . This is where the mighty fountain is .It was built in 1724 according to the inscription it has and it lies under two arches. It is the oldest dated fountain in the Peloponnese.

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THE FOLKLORE MUSEUM It was founded by the local women’s club in 1981. Its primary aim is to preserve and emerge the traditions of Andritsaina. All the exhibits are solely from the town.

It used to be housed in an old stone mansion, however, in the last 12 years it has been housed in the three storey mansion belonging to the heirs of G. and R. Kanellopoulos whose last surviving descendent donated it together with all the furniture.

The museum serves as a guardian of the history and glory of Andritsaina. The exhibits represent our folklore

ÂŤBuilt amphitheatrically on the mountain slope, Andritsaina features two and three storey mansions.

It is considered one of the most beautiful traditional settlements in Greece.Âť

and our heritage. As well as everything which depicts the vivacity and nobility of our area in history. Upon entering the museum, you lose the sense of time.

Everything makes the past come to life before you, the traditional attire the freedom fighters wore, the ladies’ dresses, the old barber shop, vintage photos and needlework.

Every room in the museum depicts how life was in the past. The locals dug into their trunks and handed whatever valuables they had from their ancestors, whatever had to do with tradition was donated. It goes without saying how significant the contribution of the Kanellopoulos family has been.

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It is worthwhile walking in the side streets while visiting the ÂŤstone townÂť.

EXHIBITS The visitor is welcomed by an old mirror on a carved chest of drawers. The room with the clothing has some of the most important exhibits. It includes kilts, fezzes, waistcoats, short pelisses, shawls and hats. Two gorgeous wedding dresses and a traditional early 19th century dress are particularly impressive.

The old barber shop with its Viennese furniture, the sideboard with the glasses, the wooden sofas, the cast-iron stoves all attract the visitors’ attention. There are photos, frames, needle works, phonographs and votive offerings from the past.

One of the most significant exhibits is the chest belonging to Panayiotis Anagnostopoulos, a founding member of the Friendly Association. You could

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A view of the library.

Andritsaina and the temple of Epicurean Apollo are worth visiting any time of the year.

see his initials and the year 1832 on it.

In another room you could see the bedroom with the iron bed and the iron canopy laid with embroidered linen and pillows, as well as the couple’s night gowns. There are icons on the wall over the baby’s cot where you could see her clothes.

The other room has the cooking utensils. There are copper utensils and irons, a variety of tools, jugs and milking pails. The loom and anything else a weaver would need is there too.

The library of Andritsaina contains a vast selection of rare books.

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The old barber’s with the Viennese furniture, the old sideboard with the glasses, the wooden sofas, the steel stoves; all attract the visitors.

A noble splendid building.

The waterfalls of Neda end in small pools of great clarity and colours.

ALPHEOS - NEDA A history that goes back in the mists of time

Rivers that are legends!!

They flow through Elia forming a divine and impressive landscape.

he rivers of Elia are particularly known in Greece and Europe, they are renowned for their unique beauty. When you see them, especially in the mountains you feel how awesome they are. The myths that surround them are also impressive, The rivers of our prefecture Alpheos, Neda, Peneios, Erymanthos, Kladeos, Iardanos, etc offer yet another form of tourism.

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ALPHEOS LOVED BY GODS AND HUMANS ALIKE The holy river of love, legends and traditions. Loved by gods and humans alike, Alpheos is simultaneously a god, a human and a river. Throughout time fairies and nymphs play , laugh and dance in his waters, among them Arethoussa, his great love.

Alpheos covered ancient Olympia

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According to Strabo, the river was named Alpheos because it cured leprosy.

Alphos in antiquity was the name of a form of leprosy.

with argil, thus protecting it against earthquakes and looting.

Its silver water is surrounded by lush vegetation, the river crosses hills and mountains. There’s a legend for every bank of the river. The many tributaries like Lousios, Ladon, Erymanthos and Kladeos have their own legends.

In antiquity Alpheos was worshipped as a god who brought wealth ; that’s why he was offered bulls in sacrifices. There were two altars in his honor, they also sacrificed for Artemis, who was also known as Alpheiaia, Alpheioonia and Potamia.

The river had also fallen in love with the nymph Arethoussa who belonged

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to Artemis.

Both myths are vivid, according to legend Alpheos became a river as he was pursuing the beautiful nymph with lust. After reaching the Ionian sea from the estuary he moved on to Sicily where a spring called Arethoussa was formed near Syracuse. It was believed that whenever he wanted to see her, he would travel as water and visit her in Sicily. It was also believed that when the water of the Arethoussa spring got murky, it was because of the blood from sacrifices in Olympia.

We could see Alpheos as a human lying down on the left side of the eastern pediment in the temple of

«ALPHEOS: When the elements and humans conspired to obliterate ancient Olympia, Alpheos with his floods gently covered the area in argil and protected it from earthquakes and any kind of vandals thus offering it to humanity again.»

Zeus in Olympia which depicts the preparation of the legendary chariot race between Oinomaos and Pelops.

Arethussa is portrayed on Syracusean coins, surrounded by dolphins.

That’s how people imagined him, they never forgot that rivers were a main source of life in our world.

The sources of Alpheos are on the western foot of mount Parnon, it flows timidly at first through the plain of Tegea, then it enters the plateau of Megalopolis and moves on to Gortinia. After crossing Arcadia, its volume increases and it finally reaches Elia. It flows through the valley of Olympia and flows into the Ionian sea.

Its alluvial soil is sometimes used in agriculture. Numerous springs and ravines flow in Alpheos.

A traditional stone bridge which connects Gortynia and Olympia.

It is situated in Kotylio near Andritsaina.

NEDA the only female river Neda is one of the few rivers that offer such a magnificent landscape untouched by humans. It is also the only Greek river with a female name, due to the nymph Neda, a water deity.

According to mythology, when Zeus was born on mount Lykaio, his mother entrusted his upbringing to Neda and two other nymphs, Agno and Theissoa.

The river flows past a narrow ravine of exceptional natural beauty with lush vegetation and small waterfalls.

The Neda ravine is full of plane trees, wild oaks, fig trees and shrubs. There are three waterfalls which end in natural pools with transparent and turquoise water. There are many

ÂŤAlpheos is one of the longest rivers in Greece.

It crosses Arcadia and discharges 120 km to the west in the Ionia sea.

It is the natural boundary between Arcadia and Elia.Âť

Another traditional bridge in Alpheos.

«Pausanias called Neda Elikorroi (spiral) because the current zigzags .

Strabo called the current Lavron (rushing) while foreigners (Muller, Belle, Ross, etc) wrote that the current of Neda forms the most beautiful landscapes in Greece and the whole world» (Based on K. Madzivis’ Epicurean Apollo) narrow spots where you should cross carefully as the current is strong.

Ancient Figalos is near the banks. According to legend, the youth of Ancient Figalos bathed in Neda to gain strength. Stomio, a big , beautiful cave, is situated to the west of Figalos, that’s where the river flows until it reaches the tributary of Pamisos. There is also a white washed chapel in honor of the Virgin Mary on a slope.

Neda marks the boundaries between the prefectures of Elia and Messenia.

The scenery in Neda is captivating.

The scenery continually changes. From narrow crossings flanked by high cliffs to lakes, always bringing to mind the past and mythology.

Neda rises from mount Lykaion near the village of Petra in the mountainous region of Messenia. It is 32 km long and is the natural boundary between Elia and Messenia.

The uniqueness and beauties of Alpheos are experienced by those bold enough to trek down the rough trails.

ÂŤThe Neda ravine where the river bearing the same name flows is a unique part of Greek nature.

The constant alternations of the landscape, lush vegetation, huge river stones light green waters and impressive rocks are a real challenge and source of enjoyment for visitors.Âť

Kaiafas ÂŤThe ecosystem of Kaiafas is considered unmolested, primordial and unique in the whole world.

Due to a perfect climate, mount Lapithos, the lake, the pine forest of Strofilia, the sea and the beach with the golden sand all coexist harmoniously.Âť

Unmolested, primordial and unique

A recent air photo of Kaiafas lake

A tranquil landscape.

The lake was formed in the 6th century AD due to violent earthquakes which resulted in subsidence. Its original size was about 1,100 acres.

Nowadays, the lake measures 270 acres. It is 3 km long, 550 m wide and over 2 m deep.

It is a natural habitat for fish, eels, snakes, turtles and several kinds of migratory birds in winter. There is also a beautiful forest and a beach (Aigaleia).

The islet in the middle is called Agia Aikaterini (St. Catherine’s), a name it took from the homonymous church on the islet.

Between the lake and the sea is the forest of

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A unique combination of a beautiful ecosystem which was the Olympian God’s first resort.

Strofilia which consists mainly of pines. The forest extends to 300 acres.

A SUBMERGED CITY?

It is said that a city lies submerged under the lake, fishermen claim that when the waters are clear. they could see huge rocks that may be the ruins of an old settlement. Others claim that a dormant volcano lies underwater. However, both cases are assumptions. 30 years ago the lake underwent certain changes, it was deepened and now the minimum depth is two meters.

It is used for water sports like rowing and water ski as its size conforms with Olympic standards without affecting the environment.

The wetlands are the habitat of eels, fish, turtles and migratory birds in winter.

It is said that a city is submerged in the waters of the lake, however, there is no evidence of such a thing.

LEGENDS AND TRADITION There are various versions of how the area got its name that go back a long time.

According to one legend, it was named after the priest Kaiafas. As he was traveling to Rome, his ship ran aground after encountering a storm. The priest then tried to bathe in a hot water spring but the curse he carried for having ordered Christ crucified gave the water his odor.

Another legend that involves the priest mentions that Kaiafas died on board and was

The lake is the venue of sports events like water-skiing and rowing.

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The legends behind the name of the lake are related to the priest Kaiafas of Judea.

thrown into the sea. His body was then washed up on the shore and buried by the locals. Others believe the name is of Turkish origin and derives from Kayia (stone) and Fas (big), in addition , in Arabic Kaiafas means red rock.

Most probably, it was named after the nymph Kaliapheia, who lived in a nearby cave (the cave of the Anygrite Nymphs) with two other nymphs, Pegaia and Iases.

The environment is mostly unmolested

LAKE S A F KAIA

GULF OF KYP 120

Network of trails for the interpretation of the environment

After walking in the forest trail towards the SE for 1,500 m, you could see the ancient castle of Samiko, a well made castle in good condition.

The trail ends on the summit of mount Hellinikon and Prophetes Elias from where there is an extensive view of the coast.

You could follow the trail on foot or ride a horse.

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MUNICIPALITY OF GASTOUNI

«The Catholic is the point of reference» astouni is one of the most trees were abundant. In the 1900’s historical municipalities of Elia raisins were the main product and is next to Peneios river. Gastouni whereas nowadays it is tomatoes and comprises many settlements the corn. oldest of which is the The fertile soil Catholic. There are also enabled the area to A fertile land four quarters inhabited prosper. The Catholic with a by descendents of church was glorious past. refugees from Asia constructed during Minor.

The birthplace of the reign of Justinian Nobody is sure when and it has remained several the area of Gastouni unchanged since the distinquished was first inhabited, 10th century. figures. however, it must have When the Franks been before sericulture invaded Elia, Gastouni was introduced in the Peloponnese. didn’t exist, it took its name from a The production of silk flourished Frank official called Gaston. from AD 550 to 850 as mulberry Christophoros Aggelos was born

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here in 1575, he was a renowned Greek scholar who rote about the suffering imposed by the foreign invaders.

During the Orlof uprising in the late 18th century, there was a revolutionary government that ruled for only 35 days, however, the Turks retaliated and a massacre was carried out resulting in a pyramid erected from the heads of the dead.

The history of Elia and Gastouni is associated with the Sisini family, who played a major role in the local politics from the early 18th century.

George Sisinis was a close friend of Th. Kolokotronis and an associate of Kapodistrias.

Redistribution of land took place in 1958 together with the construction of the Peneios dam and land reclamation works, this led to higher yields. Gastouni, which the Turks called Kiutsuk Misir (little Egypt) is

now a fertile area offering many opportunities.

Cultural life Most foreign travelers who visited Greece would visit Gastouni. The Sisini mansion contained a library with 10,000 rare books, unfortunately, it was destroyed in the civil war. Gastouni is also the see of the Oleni-Moreo diocese, many of whose bishops have played a major role in maintaining a spiritual life and tradition.

At present Gastouni is the base of the homonymous municipality, there are six boroughs Palaiohori, Kardiakaftis, Kavasila, Lefkohori and Roupaki. The town has a theatre, a philharmonic and libraries.

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Chlemoutsi Castle The stone giant of the Elia plain The legendary guard post built by the Franks and the Villeharduins in 1221 was an impregnable fortress.

t might seem «motionless». dilapidated and empty. But it isn’t, it’s full of images, movement, life you could feel if you stand still and listen to the stories the stones narrate; We are talking, of course, about Chlemoutsi castle which lies imposing over the bay of Kilini, the Ionian sea and the plain.

The castle was erected by the Frank knight Geoffrey Villeharduin, one of the two rulers of the principality of Peloponnese (the other one was William Chablite).

In a short while the summit of Helonata hill had been transformed into a mighty fortress. Construction took only two years (1221-1223) and the castle served as an observation post overlooking the sea and the plain.

It was also the residence of the ruling family.

It heyday was during the rule of William Villeharduin III. A mint was established within the castle issuing coins with the inscription «Princeps Achaie» and the Cathedral of Tour.

For that reason, the coins were called Tornezia, while the next occupiers of the castle the Venetians called it castle Tornese.

When the rule of the Villaherduins collapsed, their dynasty ended.

William’s last descendent his youngest child, daughter of the greek princess Anna Aggelina Comnene Ôf Epirus died imprisoned in the castle.

Some years before the collapse of

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Constantinople , the castle was given as dowry to the last Byzantine emperor Constantine Palaiologos from his father-in-law Charles Toko, count of Cephalonia. It became Constantine’s headquarters and was destroyed under his orders so as not to fall intro the enemy’s hands.

It was deserted for a while and later was used by the Turks, the knights of St. John of Malt·, the British and the Turks again. The castle suffered great damages from Ibrahim, who blew up part of it during the Greek revolution.

However, it remained in place and was adopted by the local inhabitants of Kastro , who with love and affection turned it into a landmark.

ÂŤSome years before the collapse of Constantinople, the castle was offered as dowry to the last Byzantine emperor Constantine Palaiologos from his father in law Charles Toke, count of Cephalonia.

It became Constantine’s headquarters and was destroyed under his orders so as not to fall into the enemy’s hands.

Renovations have also been carried out in recent years. At present an exhibition hall is being constructed in one of the buildings in the courtyard.

You could feel the iron-clad knights riding by on the cobblestones while the ladies of the court watch hidden behind curtains.

The sentries on the parapet are observing the sea and the plain.

Some are holding swords, others bows while some others have lances.

You could hear the blacksmith hammering and smell food. In a far away corner two page boys are

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The stone giant of the Elian plain

being taught the arts of war and chivalry.

There are sentries everywhere. In the main gate of the castle, in the courtyard, outside the royal family’s chambers.

The sun slowly sets while the images fade away. A magical feeling pervades, several pairs of eyes are watching you, whispers are heard from every corner. Chlemoutsi is alive...

The teacher and writer Mr. V. G. Karavoulias has written about the castle of Chlemoutsi in his book Greece, Cradle of light and civilization : ÂŤYou stand up there Chlemoutsi; tall and ethereal , built to see and be seen. You are the legendary observation post of the plain, the proud and impregnable fortress of the Franks and the Villeharduins.

Whoever climbed up this eyrie nestled securely behind the unconquerable walls Franks, pirates, Turks, Venetian, Russians and Greeks.

Who could tame this beast situated over the plain; You have to be cautious and bold to dare such a thing It was all kept and maintained but there were demons who continuously fought it , trying to pull it down.

Some used arms attempting to seize it while others would rip stones to

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build churches, bridges or houses.

Damage caused by the warriors could be fixed but not that caused by the builders . There is another enemy, the elements of nature, earthquakes, storms, hail, frost and heat. For centuries this stone giant ruled over the plain.

Today the gates are open and unguarded and the winds sweep the memories.

The observation posts are empty, too as there are no pirates to watch out for.

We could easily enter the castle now, without wearing armor, we don’t have to be Alexander the Great’s flying

soldiers or serve under Demetrius the Besieger . What we need today is to be armed with determination and knowledge about the history of the greatest observation post in Greece.

To the east lies the languid plain of Elia, shrouded in mist. To the southwest lies tranquil Zakynthos, the

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«This stone giant used to rule the whole area and served as an observation post for centuries.»

land of our national poet Solomos. To the west Cephalonia dalies with the waves. If you listen carefully to the north, you may faintly hear the

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cannons of those protecting Missolonghi . As you sit in these heights Goethe’s words from Faustus echo «To always climb higher, to

Nowadays, the castle hosts cultural events like concerts in summer.»

always see further...»

Looking inside the castle, you could see history going by, glories of the past. You are enchanted by the legend, glory and tears, happy days and sad ones.

«As you sit in these heights Goethe’s words from Faustus echo: « To always climb higher, to always see further...»

Every nook and cranny is haunted by the blood of the besiegers. You could sense the presence of all those who ruled.»

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VARTHOLOMIO

Next to Arcoudi and Glyfa that host many visitors he town of Vartholomio is in 1989.

The baths, about 800 m north of the surrounded by ancient town, where monuments. tombs with The sites Continually improving m o s a i c where ruins floors were have been and developing discovered. discovered are in the tourist market The bay of the following : Arkoudi Paliopyrgos, a where shells mound near Vartholomio where a bronze mirror dating back to the Classical period depicting a satyr and a maenad and were found. Vessels have also been dating back to the Hellenistic period discovered in the shallow waters of was found. A small grave from the 5th the cove near the old monastery of St. century BC was also discovered there Nicholas.

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Named after Bartholomew The town took its name from Bartholomew II Gyzis, one of the rulers of the area. He had a broad education in philology and philosophy. He would decorate castles with murals and entertain knights.

During his rule, Vartholomio and the port of Glarentza were the prominent commercial centers of the Frankish dominion. There was a market for silk, grapes, wines and oak apples. They had their own measures and weights and their own mint which was used until 1364.

The last cons were issued

by Robert and could be seen in the Correr museum in Naples.

The town of Vartholomio has been inhabited since the Venetian rule, specifically the Venetian census in 1689. During the Turkish occupation, Vartholomio belonged to a Turkish landowner who had appointed a proxy to manage his estate.

During the Greek revolution, the

most significant and bloodiest battle was between Greeks and Egyptians on November 11, 1825. The locals fought with valor and beat their enemies who fled to Gastouni.

The Vartholomians then moved their wives and children to Chlemoutsi castle while 100 armed men returned to the town. The next

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day they were surrounded by the enemy’s infantry and cavalry and were in great danger. 150 more men from Chlemoutsi joined them under the orders of Ch. Verras. When they were between Vrana and Vartholomio the enemy cavalry surrounded them. In the six hour battle that followed under constant rain, the Greeks were annihilated . All but 23 , who were captured, were killed. 180 in all while the enemy had 500 dead.

Today Vartholomio is a modern town with rapid tourist development mainly in Arkoudi and the fishing shelter of Glyfa. There are many hotels, excellent restaurants and rooms to let in the area, all of which guarantee a pleasant stay in one of the most beautiful seaside spots in Elia.

KILLINI

A perfect choice! illini is the main port in the NW surrounding areas are visited by of Elia. It connects the mainland thousands who pass through in order with two of the most beautiful Ionia to get to the Ionian islands, it also hosts thousands of foreign tourists islands, Zakynthos and Cephalonia.

Kilini is a perfect place for many who spend their holidays in Elia. reasons: the harbor, the golden beaches, the unique location and its proximity to other destinations of interest, last but not least because of its history.

In the Middle Ages, Killini was known as Glarentza. It was founded in the early 13th century by the Frank king Geoffrey I Villeharduin in the bay of St. Zacharias just opposite While visiting Killini Andravida. Back then it don’t neglect to dine was an important administrative and in one of the local shipping center, nowadays fish taverns it’s also famous for its hot water springs.

The town has many lovely fish Up to 1940 it was an elegant, taverns which serve mouthwatering modern spa with excellent facilities.

However, during the Nazi dishes, while you enjoy your meal occupation in World War 2 it was you take in the fresh breeze of the devastated. Reconstruction began in sea.

The area is also known for its 1951.

At present the port of Killini and the campsites where holiday makers stay

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ÂŤIt connects the main land with the Ionian islands of Zakynthos and CephaloniaÂť

in tents or caravans. There are also many impressive hotels and rooms to let.

Chlemoutsi castle is worth visiting as the view it offers is unique. In the municipality of Kastro and its surrounding villages you could see rare traditions which were brought from Asia Minor. Such traditions take place in Niohori and Kato Panaghia as most of their residents are descendents of refugees from Asia Minor.

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The bells of the monastery of Chryssopigi in Lambeia.

Monasteries

Historical temples

Hermitages

ranquility, the austere and modest atmosphere with candles,

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without grandiose chandeliers, the imposing religious sound of the monks chanting, all lead to purity that could not be

achieved in any city church.

Holy places dating back many centuries bear witness to the past and remain places of worship where lay people participate in grief and triumph.

Just like everywhere else in the world the monasteries of Elia are a priceless treasure .

Their hospitality is legendary, they offer to visitors home-made bread, olives, dessert, cool water and fruits.

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Priceless treasures of Elia The monastery of Aghia Eleoussa t was constructed in the 10th century and is 7 km to the west of Vartholomio, very close to the villages of Glyfa and Lygia.

The monastery is built in a deep canyon surrounded by lush vegetation. The main purpose of its location was to be secure against pirate raids.

In due course the monastery gained respect and amassed wealth, it used to own the whole area from the spa of Lindzi up to the mouth of Peneios in Bouka.

During the Turkish occupation its lands were settled by Greek peasants.

It was named a ÂŤvenerable parishÂť by Patriarch Paisios in 1741.

During the rough years of the Turkish occupation the monastery was a haven for the hounded boys and girls that were pursued in order to be sent to harems.

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The pirate threat According to the Vlacherna Code , pirates raided and set fire to the monastery in 1683. Then, the Christian inhabitants of the area , together with the monks built a high wall with

embrasures round the compound.

They also erected a high tower in order to be protected and defend themselves during raids.

and Zakynthos.

The name Fragopedema (the Frank’s leap) dates back to the Frankish rule.

According to tradition, Saracen pirates had been raiding the area of

The monastery of Fragopedema .

Aghios Nicholaos of Fragopedema The monastery of Fragopedema is located on a wooded hill, between the two biggest cities of Elia, 6 km SE of Amaliada and 12 km NE of Pyrgos. It is built on an altitude of 350 m and has extended views of Chlemoutsi

Katakolo when they heard that the local Frankish prince was hunting in the vicinity of the monastery. They then took hostages and split into three detachements before setting off to pursue him.

One of them went towards Vounargo, the other followed the road to Aphalachtos and the third went

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towards Koukouvitsa. The prince was trapped as the detachments were closing down on him. In his despair, he turned his horse towards the cliff.

He prayed to Saint Nicholas making a vow that if he were to escape, he would donate «the whole area he could lay his eyes on» and then jumped. His prayer was heard and he managed to escape from the pirates.

The interior of the new catholic in Fragopedema.

A historical flashback

The interior of the old catholic.

He then kept his promise and offered the whole area to the monastery.

Legends say that while falling his horse’s hoof was stamped on the rock. It was a miracle...

The talant

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The monastery had been at its prime since the early 17th century. It was dependent on the patriarch monastery of The Dormition of The Virgin in Divri for years. It played an

Manuscripts that are housed in Fragopedema.

active role in the revolution in 1821.

It has been mentioned that monks fought in the battles against Ibrahim distinguishing for their courage and bravery. Particularly Abbot Cyprian and the monks Narkissos and Agapios fought with valor in Fonika, near the monastery, in 1825.

After the revolution, the monastery fell into decline and was forced to

become dependent on the monastery of Skafidia. In 1929, under a royal decree, it became independent and was turned into a convent.

Stathis E. Paraskevopoulos gives us a vivid description of the monastery published by the Diocese of Elia : ÂŤBlossoming shady pines, in a harmonious row form the allies that meander downhill. The building on

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the flat opening is impressive, huge with dark red tiles on the roof. The cells surround it, old and new together. The church is in the middle, neither long nor wide but tall in its third dimension..»

A n o t h e r description worth mentioning is by G. Papandreou : « The monastery of Fragopedemna, which honors St. Nicholas is situated NW of Vounargo on a sloping ravine surrounded by pineclad mountains . It seems at first to have been independent.

Then between 1732

«In his despair, he turned his horse towards the cliff. He prayed to Saint Nicholas making a vow to donate «the whole area he could lay his eyes on» and then jumped. His prayer was heard and he managed to escape from the pirates. He then kept his promise and offered the whole area to the monastery...» Above you could see the new temple and below you could see the charnel house of the monastery.

The monastery has been awarded a first prize for its splendid needlework made by the nuns, who still keep the tradition.

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and 1804 it became a monastery dependency of the monastery of Ano Divri.

After regaining its independence it again depended on the monastery of Skafidia. In its vicinity there are large areas of forests, olive groves and fields. During the Turkish rule it owned the whole area up to the village of Koukouvitsa.

Despite its name, it was never under the Franks. It lies 280 m. above sea level.Âť Pilgrimages The church of the Dormition of The Virgin (Panagoula) belongs and is dependant to the monastery. It lies between Alpohori and Xilokera.

The monastery also owns the country chapel of the Ascension , in Mazi which was built in 1948 on the foundations of the church of the Holy Archangels.

Another country chapel that belongs to the monastery is Aghia Xeni near Triandafyllia.

Treasures The monastery has a library with a large number of books. There are also scripts written by the Fathers of the Church, historical documents and old bibles dating back to the 16th and 19th century published in Vienna, Venice, Leipzig, St. Petersburg, Jerusalem, Constantinople, etc.

A nun lights the candle in front of the icon of The Holy Virgin.

The manuscripts are of great interest among them is a sigil issued by Patriarch Gregory V in 1798.

Panagia Kremasti (Suspended Mary) It is an awesome monastery of impressive size that seems to be suspended from the rocks. Visitors who stand on the balcony are offered an extensive view of Elia that reaches the forest of Foloi.

Kremasti could be reached either via the village of Lanthi or via Lambeti.

Not much is known about the exact date of construction as there are no written records.

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Aghios Georgios of Lambeti As you approach Lambeti from Pyrgos an uphill road leads you to the small monastery of St. George.

It is an austere tuff stone church. It’s a basilica which resembles a cross. The belfry, which is connected to the main building, is on the SW side.

Monastery of Prophetes Elias in Amaliada The monastery is situated near Kardamas, about a km away from Amaliada. It has got a low ceiling and is whitewashed. On the west side there is an icon built into the wall of Elias as a hermit. This hermitage was probably founded in 1925. It is occupied by nuns who are engaged in gardening and also sew clerical robes.

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The monasteries of Elia offer tranquillity and spiritual elation.

Nestled on a steep cliff, the monastery of Sepeto offers a sense of uniqueness.

Monastery of Sepeto It is located in a wooded area with abundant plane trees, oaks, oloasters, bearberries, bulrushes, heaths and thorny burnets. The landscape is tranquil and calm helping the spirit and soul to be at ease.

It is nestled on a steep cliff near Alifeira above the banks of river Triton and in close proximity to the citadel of Alifeira.

Interpretations of its name There are various interpretation about its name: a. from the phrase SE PETO (I’m throwing you) which was allegedly uttered by a woman who threw her offered child out of a window without it being harmed.

The icon of the Holy Virgin in Sepeto.

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b. from the Slavic word SOPOT, which means spring, waterfall referring to the river Triton and its waterfall. c. according to local tradition, an enormous serpent was responsible for the drying up of the river and neighboring springs until the Virgin Mary killed it with lightning. d. named after a hermit called Sopotos who may have been the founder of the monastery.

Its history since 1150 The monastery was founded in the The drive that leads to the monastery of Sepeto.

Middle Ages circa 1150-1200 when John X Camateros constructed just across the waterfall was the Patriarch. At first it was of Triton near Vrontos. There are privileged by the Ecumenical several possible reasons for its Patriarch and functioned as a destruction : a Frankish raid, flood, commune with many monks and fire or even on purpose as the original extensive property. Later on it became site was vulnerable to attacks. a provincial commune under the As a result it was moved on the other diocese of Olympia. The original side where the miraculous icon of the monastery seems to have been Virgin was discovered.

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fighters took their oath ÂŤfreedom or deathÂť under the icon of the Virgin.

Only the icon was saved A fire, probably caused by a forgotten candle broke out on August 23, 1915. as a result the church was burnt apart from the icon of the Virgin Mary of Sepeto, a work attributed to St. Luke. Within two years the church had been rebuilt.

Between 1900 and 1903 a primary school was run in the monastery by Anthimos, a priest-monk. A religious school was established from 1936 to 1938 founded by bishop A.

The fort of the monastery.

The monastery played a major role during the Byzantine era and the Frankish rule. It went through thick time during the Turkish occupation but helped the enslaved Greeks in any way it could. Many important decisions were made there that helped in the struggle. The monastery also ran a secret school, educating many who would later lead the revolution. Numerous freedom

A chalice made in 1849

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There are several interpretations for the name of Sepeto, which played a major role in the Greek revolution.

Triandafyllou.

The current temple was renovated and took its present form about twenty years ago duo to Archimandrite G. Zaharopoulos.

The icon of the Virgin Mary of Sepeto was stolen in1972, resulting in the destruction of the face of Jesus Christ, however it was miraculously found seven months later.

Only the Virgin’s face survives from the original icon.

The temple houses several other notable icons most of which decorate the screen .

Aghios Athanassios of Abelokabos The hermitage of Aghios Athanassios is near the village of Abelokabos.

It is a basilica while the belfry is connected to the gate. The interior is impressive, the icons on the screen were painted in 1876. The curved ceiling

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An underground passage in the monastery of Sepeto.

reminds us of churches in Zakynthos.

The monastery was constructed during the Turkish occupation, it was burnt down and the monks were massacred by the Turks who suspected them of offering help to freedom fighters.

Many miracles have been mentioned while its spring was believed to be curative.

The temple of Fragavilla It is located in Amaliada and is considered an historic pilgrimage. A cobblestone path leads to the small chapel.

The interior is black, mainly as a result of attempts to burn it. It is a monument that stubbornly resists time and helps you remember the past and contemplate about the present and the future. The screen is impressive while the sanctuary, despite being small, has two gates and is divided into three parts.

The temple’s name and the Franks.

Between 1200 and 1400 the temple was Catholic and belonged to a Frank whose mansion lay nearby, as a result it was called Frankavilla. After the Frank’s departure, it was converted into a Greek Orthodox temple.

It contains a remarkable mural depicting St. George’s martyrdom in

1696. It’s a unique spot for prayer and meditation. Under the cypress trees lies Athanassios, Bishop of Elia, who chose to be buried there.

Panagia of Skafidia The historic monastery of Panagia of Skafidia is situated in a captivating seaside surrounding a few km away from Pyrgos. The monastery honors the Dormition of the Virgin Mary on August 15.

The view of the medieval fort that surrounds the monastery is dazzling.

It was built in the 10th century and contains a lot of treasures, vestments, icons, sacred vessels, shrines, votive offerings as well as the monastery banner depicting the Virgin Mary.

There is also an archive and a library with many manuscripts which prove the monastery’s pivotal role in the Greek revolution.

Monastery of Poretsos It is situated 10 km from the Tripotamia junction on a small hill and surrounded by trees.

It resembles a small fortress. When you enter, you see a stone ditch. There are lots of cells built in a row. To the left you could see a tiny chapel in honor of St. Christodoulos and St. Nektarios.

A climbing vine provides shade to both yards. Then there is a reception

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The Holy Virgin of Frangavilla, one of the most significant Byzantine monuments in Elia.

hall, the abbot’s chambers and guestrooms. To the right are the kitchen and dining hall.

The temple is small, like the one in Ano Divri, due to the lack of space.

Steps lead to the narthex which has been renovated.

The narthex must have been built after the temple, in the 10th century.

This pilgrimage, just like other in the area exists due to the zeal of the

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venerable Luke who traveled in the Peloponnese to support and preach Christianity.

The temple seems simple from the outside, built on rocks in a rectangular shape, from the interior though it has the shape of a cross with a small but elegant dome.

Panaghia Poretsanissa

The monastery of Skafidia, built in the 10th century next to the Ionian sea.

The icon of the Mother of God on the screen, next to the icon of Christ, is dedicated to Panaghia Megalomata, also known as Poretsanissa or Germosanissa as the monastery lies between the two villages. During the Turkish occupation it supported the local population and the Kleftes (freedom fighters). In 1824, the year the civil war nearly destroyed the

struggle for freedom, it offered shelter to Andreas Zaimes who was pursed

by Kolettis. He and his father Assemakis Zaimes hid for 6 months in a cave , nearby.

Monastery of Chryssopege in Divri The monastery of Kato (lower) Divri is built in the entrance of the village in a tree- clad elevation.

The landscape is entrancing and the area is called Gavronikos, named after the nearby spring. The whole

Two more pictures of Skafidia.

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The interior of the temple in the monastery of Chryssopege.

structure is impressive. The temple itself, dedicated to the Dormition of Mary, is a masterpiece of architecture, with beautiful icons and a carved wooden screen.

Renovations were carried out between 1746 and 1748 from Simeon bishop of Elia and the abbot Chr. Markouris.

In 1834 the monastery was to be shut down due to the few monks who had remained. The residents of Divri, however, reacted and managed to obtain a royal decree which in 1841 ordered the monastery to remain open as a monastery dependency of the Ano (upper) Divri monastery. The locals considered this a half measure and succeeded, once again, in achieving an independent status for their monastery. However, it faced serious problems and again merged with the Ano monastery in 1871, whose part it still is.

The monastery of Panaghia Chryssopege is to the NE of Divri (65 km from Pyrgos) situated on a ravine 1100 m above sea level and surrounded by fir trees.

It is accessible by car or on foot. As soon as you get there you could feel the unique atmosphere

that the fir forest and running waters create.

It was probably built in the early 17th century while some of the buildings date back to the 15th century.

During its heyday it was awarded a privilege by the Ecumenical Patriarch Paisios in 1732. The privileges were renewed by Ecumenical Patriarch Cyril XI in 1804. In its heyday the monastery owned cultivating land, woods, vineyards and olive groves.

During the Venetian rule it declined and the monks moved to other nearby monasteries.

During the Turkish occupation it played a vital role. It maintained a secret school and also offered shelter to the Kleftes (freedom fighters) of Olonos.

rests on arches and is similar to early Christian chapels. It was painted in 1667, according to an inscription on the arch of the door that connects the temple to the narthex. Bishop Antonios says about the painting «the temple has been painted by various artists in various times. The oldest (murals) were created by a brilliant artist, the newer ones by a mediocre one.»

The narthex also includes murals

The secret school As you walk in you can’t hide your feelings. The small room is made of stone, so are the steps you walk down.

Now there’s electricity but back then small candles were used to break the darkness while a monk struggled to break the darkness of slavery. Both rooms are arched, you can see an old used lectern, stained candlesticks and half destroyed books.

Various relics.

Icon painting The temple is a basilica, the dome

A 17th century book housed in the monastery of Lambeia.

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A sigil from the Ecumenical Patriarch in 1732 named the monastery of Divri stauropegic .

among which is a lovely depiction of the second coming of the Lord.

The wood carved screen includes an icon of the Virgin Mary , of Christ and of many saints, it dates back to 1750 and was created by M. Damaskenos.

The library includes many books dating back to the 17th and 18th century. There is also a small archive containing manuscripts and sigils.

One of the sigils is from Patriarch Gregory V and certifies the privileges.

There are also several holy relics of saints.

The Dormition of the Mother of God in Pavlitsa

It was probably built over an ancient monument either during the Mystra Despotate (1348, 1460) or during the crusades and the Frankish occupation (1204-1566). The walls are built of lime and tiles, the fountains of Krinis and Figalos, among the most beautiful fountains in antiquity, were also used as building material.

The temple’s appearance has changed as the old dome collapsed in 1960.

The interior is decorated with some brilliant icons which are still impressive despite the ravages of time.

Panaghia Eisodiotissa

It is a Byzantine cross-shaped temple dedicated to the Virgin in Pavlitsa (ancient Figalos).

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This monastery is in honor of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin

The secret school in the monastery of Chryssopege. Hagiography

Mary and is situated near the village of Aghios Ioannis, on the main road from Pyrgos to Katakolo.

The temple is a small cave carved in the rock where an icon of Mary was found. It was built in the 15th century and used to be a monastery dependency of Skafidia. It became independent in 1974 and it houses a school icon of painting and Byzantine music.

Monastery of Analipsis This monastery in honor of the Ascension is located in a village near Amaliada. The chapel of St. Modenos is to the right of the temple. It is

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situated on a mound and offers an extensive view of the Elia plain and the sea.

Monastery of Zourtsa The architecture and the age of this temple in honor of the Dormition of the Mother of God makes it a monument of great significance. It is located about 1 km to the east of New Figalos (known in the past as Zourtsa).

The original three-aisled basilica has now got two aisles with a narthex.

The decoration in the middle of the three arches is of great interest, it covers the whole surface of the foils from the window upwards.

We can’t really determine the exact date of construction as there are no monuments that could be used as a point of reference. However, it is obvious if we consider the temple’s typology and morphology that it bears evidence of the early period of the 1st millennium and the 10th century in particular. Consequently, the temple of Zourtsa must have been constructed just around the end of the 10th century.

Monastery of Aghios Demetrios in Amaliada Your religious feelings will be invigorated if you happen to visit the church of St. Demetrius at dawn during Mass. The psalmody is accompanied by tens of birds

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gathered on the trees in the yard while the fragrance of incense and flowers lingers in the air.

The precinct of the temple is surrounded by cypress trees.

In the interior you notice the icons of St. Demetrius on horseback, St. Nicholas and Prophet Elias. The screen is made of stone and the icons were created in 1940.

Aghios Ioannis in Pelopio St. John’s is a charming location

In the temple of the Virgin in Pavlitsa there are many great murals.

The temple is in a small cave in the rock.

lying on a hillside.

A narrow road in Pelopio, near Olympia leads you up to St. John’s.

There you could see the hall of residence named after St. Justin, which hosts several young students.

The temple is made of stone and is a basilica.

Monastery of Panaghia Vlacherna It is located in an olive grove 2 km from the port of Kilini. It is also known

as Glarentza.

It honors the birth of the Mother of God and celebrates on September 8.

During the Frankish rule it housed catholic monks, since the 17th century it has been a Greek Orthodox temple.

It was established circa 9th century and its library contains old bibles, sigils and shrines.

Monastery of Panaghia Nafiliotissa

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This monastery is situated in a magnificent, austere location in Andritsaina.

It takes its name from a nearby brook called Nafilos.

Nowadays, it serves the local cemetery of Andritsaina. It used to be a rich convent with 12 nuns, built in the Middle Ages.

The monastery was established circa 14th century, it was privileged by the Ecumenical Patriarch and was run as a commune. It flourished until 1885 when it was closed down.

The temple was burnt to the ground

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in 1769 during the Orlof revolt and was rebuilt in 1783 hosting a secret school. It was burnt yet again by the Turks in 1826. Another fire in 1968 destroyed what was left of the Byzantine icons before being rebuilt.

Monastery of Zoodohos Pege in Epitalio It is located 2 km from Epitalio and 5 km from Pyrgos. It is surrounded by pines, olive trees, almond trees and orchards.

The Virgin Mary Herself has blessed

The monastery of Figalos is about a thousand years old.

the location and the area offering a curative miraculous spring for those who come in faith.

In 1928 a young faithful woman had a vision which led to excavation revealing a spring and a small stone plaque dating back to early Christian times. The plaque carried an inscription on either side. «Zeus, you have been beaten by the true faith and you have ceased to exist.» and « we are safe under the patronage of Your Name». «The inscriptions were probably written while Christianism spread in the province of Olympia. It

is also likely that a shrine in honor of Zeus was situated in the same location. Bishop Andreas seeing that the spring’s rock had become a pilgrimage decided to erect a temple dedicated to Panaghia Zoodohos Pege (Our Lady, the Life-Containing fount).

The temple was completed in 1935.

The big earthquake of 1965 caused serious damage to the convent.

The nuns, however, remained there and rebuilt it with the help of donations.

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The temple in the monastery of Vlaherna.

The temple in the traditional settlement is of great interest.

The small chapel in the monastery of Zoodohos Pege (Our Lady, the LifeContaining fount) is dedicated to St. Nicholas.

Pammegiston Taxiarhon temple This unique 6 century old masterpiece is located in the village of Taxiarhes (Archangels) 52 km from

Pyrgos. The temple is an abridged structure with a three sided arch. It is stone made and dates back to the 15th century.

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Religious events and local celebrations he population of Elia has always been deeply devout. Hence there is a large number of churches and monasteries in the prefecture.

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The diocese of Elia has 219 parishes, 87 chapels and 255 country chapels. There are 100 churches that serve cemeteries, 13 that serve institutions, 2 in summer camps, 11 in holiday resorts, 2 in garrisons, 12 private and 43 that belong to monasteries.

The diocese of Olympia-Trifyllia (Kyparissia) has got 60 parishes, 50 chapels and about 180 country chapels.

The grandest religious holiday in Pyrgos is in honor of St. Charalambos the Miraculous, who is the city’s patron saint on February 10.

Another important religious holiday is in honor of Zoodohos Pege (Our Lady the Life-Containing fount) whose icon is in display at St. Athanassios church every Easter Friday.

St Dionysius of Zakynthos is also an important celebration as well as St. Spyridon. In Amaliada the most important religious celebrations are of St. Tryphon, the Annunciation, St. Nektarios and Panaghia of Frangavilla.

Zaharo celebrates St. Spyridon, Krestena the Holy Virgin, in Andritsaina they celebrate St. Nicholas and St. Therapon. In Kallithea they celebrate the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Trinity. In Figalos St. Nicholas and in Tripiti St. Nicholas «Isovas».

In Gastouni St. Nicholas and the Virgin Mary the Catholic.

In Lechaina St. Demetrius and the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In Varda the Holy Trinity.

In Manolada the Apostole St. Peter.

In Olympia the Dormition of the Mother of God and in Divri St. Marina and St. Pandeleimon.

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The following saints also celebrate Saint Barbara in Pyrgos and Andritsaina. Aghia Kyriaki in Pyrgos. Aghia Marina in Katarahi, Pyrgos, in Xerokambos and in Lambeia.

Saint Mavra in the homonymous urban district in Platanos.

Saint Paraskevi in Goumero, in Pelopio, in Kafkonia and in Pyrgos.

Saint Anargyroi in the chapels of the hospitals of Pyrgos and Amaliada.

The Saint Apostles in Vrohitsa and Vitineika.

Saint Theodore in Koliri, Lechaina, Magoula and Oreini.

Saint Constantine and Saint Helen in Lala, Andravida, Androni, Tragano and Pyrgos.

All Saints in Pyrgos The Archangels in Andravida.

Saint Athanasios in Pyrgos, Amaliada, Varvasaina, Vounargo, Myrtia, Smila, Kleindia and Palaiovarvasaina.

Saint Athanasios bishop of Christianoupoli in Kavasilakia, Pyrgos.

Saint Basil in Pelopio, Nemouta and Helidoni.

Saint George in Efyra, Lygia, Kourtesi and Aspra Spitia.

Saint Gerasimos of Cephalonia in Kavouri, Pyrgos.

Saint Demetrius in Aetorahi, Korakihori, Linaria, Pothos and Lalas.

Saint Eleftherios in Pyrgos.

Saint John Theologus in Ahladini, Melies, Douka and Platanos.

Saint John Chrysostomos in Kalyvia , Vartholomio.

Saint John the Baptist in Pelopio and the monastery of Nikava in Goumero Saint Nektarios in Amaliada.

Saint Spyridon in Lasteika, Skourohori and Zaharo.

Saint Tryphon in Amaliada.

Saint Charalambos in Pyrgos, Avgi, Floka and Hanakia.

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Xenopohone is associated with the area and he is the emblem of the municipality.

MUNICIPALLITY OF SKILLOUNDA

With a long history This is the area where Xenophone was banished from Athens and wrote Anabasis.

t is perfectly located as it borders with the archaeological site of Olympia while having 12 km of sandy beaches. It has dense forests and is adjacent to the hot water springs of Kaiafas.

Skillounda is also connected by road with the temple of Epicurean Apollo, Mystras and Pylos.

Furthermore its coastal and riverine zones are amongst the most fertile.

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Skillounda, a significant town The area of Skillounda has been inhabited since prehistoric times (the stone age), Xenopohone, Strabo and Pausanias all agreed that Skillounda was an important town. The name probably derives from Skilla a kind of bulbous onion which is abundant in

the area and used as a lucky charm.

Skillounda is very close to Olympia, on the other side of Alpheos so the inhabitants were always affiliated with Olympia.

The first temple in Olympia, the Herron, was donated by the inhabitants of Skillous (circa 10th-9th century BC) as mentioned by Pausanias. The Herea races for women were organized by the inhabitants of Skillous and Pissa.

Just opposite Altis on the side of Skillous is mount Typaion from where women watched the games as they were forbidden to cross Alpheos.

The penalty for breaking the above law was death by being thrown off mount Typaion. According to Pausanias, only Kalipateira ignored the law but she wasn’t punished as

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her brothers and son were Olympic champions.

Xenophone and mount Typaion Xenophone watched the games from Typaion. too as he lived in the area in exile for twenty years. He specifically lived in the ancient town of

The most significant archaeological sites Ancient Aipi - Platiana Isova Monastery - Tripiti Temple of Athena - Skilloundia Ancient Samia - Kato Samiko Ancient Valanio - Kato Samiko Ancient relics - Vrina Mount Typaion - Makrisia

Epeion. Here you could see the foundations of a big Dorik temple believed to be the temple of Skilloundia Athena. There is also a second temple and a cemetery of the late Classical times. Xenophone remained in Skillounda for twenty years and was exiled again by the Elians after the battle of Leuktra.

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The citadel of ancient Samia as it is today.

During his stay in Skillounda, he wrote the greatest part of his memoirs, he also wrote Anabasis and Hunting .

The opposite direction of Alpheos on the Ionian coast next to Kaiafas is dominated by the citadel of Ancient Samia. The city extended from mount Lapitha to the sea. The ruins are visible. In some parts the walls are still intact, you could see the double enclosure and the dry masonry.

In the area of K. Samiko, N. Gialouris the general curator of the

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« The eternal face of Skillounda challenges everybody to see it.

To climb up the citadel of Samia and Homeric Aipi, to walk on the same paths that were once used by the historian Xenophone, to gaze the ancient stadium of Olympia from Kalipateira’s rock , to remember Alpheos’ love for Arethoussa by looking at him, flowing serenely.

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Inspectorate of Antiquities excavated the only Mycenaean tumulus found in this part of Greece, bringing to light significant findings dating back to 1600-1200 BC. The religious center of the Minian Exapolis was here; the first federation of cities in antiquity worldwide.

The Minians, descendants of the Argonauts from Thessaly, reached the Peloponnese and expanded to the west reaching the banks of Alpheos.

Poseidion and Aipi

The temple of Athena in Skilloundia.

The Minians established the federation on common aspirations, ideals and religious ceremonies.

Their common link was the cult of the sea god Poseidon for whom they had built a sanctuary near the sea called «Poseidion».

Delegates from all the cities would gather there annually and The cemetery of Skillounda perform religious

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«The municipality of Skillous is a unique historical land, dating back to the Stone Age. The myths and history of Greece are omnipresent here.

It is separated from the holy Altis

Aipi and the Minian Exapolis, where the Holy Truce originates, together with the revolution of 1821, all confirm the historical significance of this land.»

ceremonies and games before discussing common problems. A holy truce was observed during the games called Samion, which was announced much earlier than the games.

Among the cities that took part in the Trojan war that Homer mentions is «well built Aipi». It is widely believed that the ruins found on mount Lapitha near the settlement of Platania belong to Aipi. On the summit of the mountain there is a 420 m wall belonging to a citadel.

There are ruins of the citadel, some square forts, the cavea of a theatre, a throne, remnants of an agora as well as foundations of temples and houses.

Some believe it is the site of the city of

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of Olympia and Alpheos Xenophone,

Typaneon.

Other historical areas Frixa : the city called Frixa by Herodotus was built by the Minians who expelled the Parorites or Kaukons. According to Pausanias, there used to be a temple in honor of Athena Kidonea built by Klimenis, a descendent of Hercules who arrived there from Kidonia in Crete, thus the city was also called Phaestos.

Samiko: An ancient city of Trifyllia on mount Lapithos. In Mycenaean times it was called Samos. In the area of Kleidi there are ruins of a polygonal wall. The town used to be independent and was conquered

The municipality of Skillounda is among the largest in Elias

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The municipality of Skillounda is among the largest in Elia. « Skillounda is close to Olympia and lies 20 stadiums (3.5 km) from the temple of Zeus.

It was situated on the road that connected Sparta with Olympia.

The river Selinous flowed in the area full of fish and shellfish.

The whole land offers a variety of games...»

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Anabasis, Xenophone E3, 7-13

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Isova: An old historic monastery in the vicinity of Tripiti. It was destroyed in 1263 by the army of Mihail Palaologos during the expedition against the Franks of Villeharduin.

The latter’s victory was believed to have been a result of the Holy Virgin’s wrath for the destruction of the monastery.

Interesting architecture

Alpheos river

twice by the Elians in 480 and 245 BC. In 219 BC it was conquered by Phillip V of Macedonia.

Ypana : An ancient city of Trifyllia, probably situated near Vrina. In 217 BC, Ypana joined Phillip V of Macedonia as an independent state.

Later they joined the Achaean League.

The beach of Samiko, one of the best in Elia.

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Apart from the monuments of antiquity, visitors could also see some interesting buildings of the 19th century such as the Papalexis villas built by Ziller in Krestena, now housing the town hall.

A significant ecosystem The natural beauty, the variety of landscapes and the unique countryside blend with the archaeological sites and a rare

Strofylia

ecosystem.

Olympia, Epicurean Apollo, Kaiafas and Strofilia are close to the magnificent beach of Kato Samiko which offers anything a tourist needs to have a good time. Mount Lapitha marks the boundaries between the municipalities of Skillounda and Zaharo. Mount Typaeon together with the hills and forests in the area provide a significant untouched ecosystem which is inhabited by various species of fauna.

The sites of Skillounda could be accessed by car, bike or on foot.

It is also possible to try white-water rafting or angling in the rivers of Alpheos, Acherondas and Selinounda.

Visitors could stay at the municipal guesthouse and walk on the same paths as Xenophone, who lived here for twenty years.

One of the most interesting routes is from mount Typaeon to the stadium of Ancient Olympia, which is one km long.

The throne- Ancient citadel, Platiana.

coexisted harmonioysly in the area for centuries.

The landscape is of exceptional beauty»

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«Various hesterogenns elements have

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Valaneio (Samiko)

The citadel of Samia is also worth visiting. From the beach of Samiko, you could also take one of the trails that lead to mount Lapitha where

boar hunting takes place. There are specially designed trails for cars, bikes and hikers that lead to monasteries like Prophet Elias’, Aghia Paraskevi of

A cemetery in Skillounda

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of Skillounda unique and awesome.

The present too is worthwhile mentioning.

Liferature, the arts, science and sports are all areas with significant representatives from our area.»

Makrisia, Aghios Demetrius of Ladiko and the Frankish monastery of Isova in Tripiti .

You could also visit the ruins of Aipi in Platiana and the neighboring gorge of Tsemberoula in Platiana. As you

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«Not only is the past history

descend from the castle of Ancient Samia, you could pay a visit to «Farma Noah» , a small zoo that also offers good food.

A constant presence. From antiquity to the Byzantine era, the crusades and the gothic temples to Orthodox churches.

T H E M O N A S T E R Y O F I S O VA

Even the ruins alone are sensational!

They’ve stood there for centuries in a splendid location which wasn’t chosen by chance. he monastery of Isova has dominated the area for 7 centuries. It is situated on a hill in a magnificent location near the village of Tripiti in the municipality of Skillous, 45 km from Pyrgos.

The impressive large parts that survive prove that the monastery of Isova was a huge construction. It is believed to have been 41 m. long and 17.5 m wide.

According to N. Kondovounissios « There had been an architectural plan the designers of whom must have been perfectly qualified and experienced in erecting such buildings. They had anticipated static problems and the roofing of the catholic, which prove without doubt that the architects were Cistercians , experts in architecture since they had built Westminster in England.»

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Dedicated to the Holy Virgin The Frankish monastery of Isova , built in the early 13th century was dedicated to the Holy Virgin. In 1263, just after the Byzantine conquest, it was burnt down by Turkish mercenaries who fought for the Byzantines.

As you could notice from this photo taken from the monastery of Isova, parts of ancients buildings were used.

It has been proven that Cistercians, who also built Westminster, designed the buildings.Âť

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It is worth mentioning that the earthquake in 1965 didn’t affect the building despite leading to the destruction of several houses in the vicinity.

It is a typical example of Gothic church architecture comprising an oblong catholic (the main temple), an incorporated abbey and two walls.

The Gothic temple of the Holy Virgin remains mostly intact, in the north side the monks’ cells and the courtyard are still visible.

There are 6 large windows in the north and south sides and three in the west side. It is assumed that the roof had two sloping sides which formed a sharp angle in the middle of the temple. According to N. Kondovounissios, it is the typical style of Cisterian architects,

ÂŤSince its burning down the building has survived earthquakes which destroyed all the other buildings in the area!Âť

From the windows, you could see the whole valley.

who avoided vertiginous elevations towards the sky. The eastern side of the temple led to a multi-angled arch which hasn’t survived.

St. Nicholas St. Nicholas is an independent temple built to the south of the catholic of Isova. Building materials taken from Isova were used in its construction. It is believed to have been built in 1263, after the burning down of Isova.

It is a unique medieval construction found nowhere else in the Peloponnese.

The Inspectorate of Byzantine Antiquities is carrying out excavations in the ruins of the temple. The floor is covered with tons of soil and as a result the excavations will be carried out for a long time.

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The remains of the temple of St. Nicholas.

MUNICIPALITY OF ZAHARO

An area of historical treasures A large area which extends to the mountains and the sea offering numerous opportunities for tourism

large area extending to the mountains and the sea with a great potential for tourism.

The municipality of Zaharo lies in an extensive mountainous, semimountainous and coastal area offering a great potential for tourism.

Despite the above merits not many know about its natural, archaeological and historic wealth.

The name comes from Zaharoula’s inn, which existed there before the 19th century. Later on, a settlement was founded mainly by Albanian herders. The area was burnt down by Ibrahim Pasha’s army in 1825.

During the Greek civil war, three bloody battles took place, in 1947 and 1948.

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Anigros and Kaiafas Anigros was a seasonal river parallel

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to Lapithos. In antiquity it received the waters of Pege (spring), now known as Kaiafas.

According to mythology, the odor emitted from the sulphurus water of Anigros was believed to have come from the cleansing of the wounds of centaur Heiron, who had been wounded by Hercules’ poisoned arrows. One of the caves in Kaiafas was believed to be the lair of the Anigrid Nymphs while another was inhabited by the Atlantide Nymphs, daughters of Atlas.

This same area is also considered to be the birthplace of Dardanos, son of Zeus and Electra.

According to another myth, the bad smell of the waters was due to the fact that they were used by Melabus to cleanse the Proitides. In reality, of course, the water has a high content of hydrogen sulphide and has been used

Zaharo is a worthwhile destination as it offers a wide variety of hotels and rooms to let.

for thousands of years as a spa, even mentioned by Strabo. Homer refers to Anigros as Minneios, corroborating with Herodotus’ opinion that the area had been inhabited by the Minians.

The citadel of Samos It is a city of Homeric times which belonged to the Pylaens, Homer referred to it as Erateini. The location was later called Samiko.

The central square of Zaharo is the main meeting place, especially in summer.

Homer mentions that Nestor of Pylos came from Ammodes Pylos (sandy Pylos), an area between Kakovato and Kallidona. It is not known where ancient Arene stood, however, it is believed to have been at the same location as ancient Samia was later.

The area played a vital role in the Greek revolution.

Tholo and Russia...

On March 12, 1769 a Russian ship arrived at Paliokaravo, a spot near Tholo, where it unloaded 3,000 guns, ammunition and swords intended for the Orlof revolution of 1769. The arms were transported to Tholo and then to Zourtsa in Figalos and were used by A. Christou and G. Gregoriades in the revolt that

Another photo of the town where the church is imposing.

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followed. Unfortunately, Russia reached an agreement with the Sultan and her Greek allies were left at the mercy of the Turkish Albanians.

Kakovato is to the south. Its name derives from Kakos (bad) and Vaino (move), meaning a rough path due to argil silts from the two rivers that flow in the area.

The temple of St. John the Baptist in Shinoi.

Kalidona and Sarena

The beach of Zaharo.

The village was built after Greece’s independence. Nowadays, Kakovato is an important tourist destination due to its clean beaches.

Kalidona is built on an altitude of 340 m, near the old village of Sarena. There are ruins of a castle to the SE of Kalidona.

Melea, a village nearby was the birthplace of G. Kondovounisios, a freedom fighter turned bandit.

The village used to be called Skleva, probably names after a fief holder during the Frankish rule called Sklevas.

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A panoramic photograph of Giannitsohori, a few km to the south of Zaharo.

Minthi, Hades and Pluto

These beaches are among the best in Greece.

Mount Minthi is the highest mountain in the sub prefecture of Olympia, reaching an attitude 1222 metres. The castle of Araklovo is built on its slopes,

The traditional settlement of Taxiarhes.

while the village of Minthi- known as Albaina in the past- is slightly lower.

According to mythology, Minthi was one of Hades’ nymphs. However, Persephone - Hades’ wife- was jealous and killed her. Other myths mention that Demeter killed her. Hades then turned Minthi into a plant.

The railway station in Kaiafas.

The village of Minthi played a major role in the struggle for freedom. In a battle between the Greeks and Ibrahim’s army the latter suffered 500 dead soldiers. The renowned freedom fighter Gregory, bishop of Methoni was born here.

A traditional house in Zaharo

The ravine of Arene.

MUNICIPALITY OF VOLAKAS

Ancient Epitalio and Agoulinitsa he municipality of Volakas from Rome.

Several other findings dating back based in Epitalio is next to Alpheos river and is in essence a to Roman times have been suburb of Pyrgos. It also includes unearthed .

The locals in the villages of Volakas are Alpheousa, An agricultural land particularly Anemohori and whose inhabitants hospitable and Agridi.

A n c i e n t exploit the drained lake observe the traditions of the Epitalio is of particular interest. Excavations past. Most inhabitants are farmers, carried out in 1967 revealed a with fields extending in the drained milerium, a yardstick used by lake of Agoulinitsa.

Romans to measure the distance

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LEPREO A very old town

A prosperous land full of springs...

Also natural and manmade epreo has played a prominent role since antiquity due to its fortifications allowed Lepreo to abundance in water. Bearing in flourish for a long period of time. mind that Figalo belonged to Lepreo, it Conversely, Pylos, due to its location, couldn’t is obvious that protect itself the five main effectively s p r i n g s , «A land from raids for together with long.. the ten of vital importance As a result, secondary ones owing to its waters Lepreo still played a vital stood while role in the area. and the seven watermills o t h e r Thus we of Baniska» neighboring could not agree kingdoms had more with ceased to exist.

Strabo who called Lepreo a Ancient Lepreo prosperous land.

The water of Banista comes from Ancient Lepreo must have extended three geological crevices from the NE. The climate and the fertility of the in the area where today are the land helped the development of villages of Ag. Elias, Giannitsochori, Prasidaki, Lepreo, Faskomelia and Lepreo in antiquity.

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Every year Lepreo hosts significant cultural

events called «Demetreia» which aim at emerging the archaeological site and the historical significance of the area

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Figalos among others. Homeric Pylos was situated just north of the rivers Glatsitiko and Kalidonitika.

We only know about it from Homer, Strabo and excavations.

Part of the area was later under the realm of Lepreo. A fact that proves the prominence of Lepreo.

Much of the plain where the villages of Giannitsochori, Neochori, Kakovato and Shina didn’t exist back then as it was formed by silts in later times, a

Lepreo: A fertile land full of springs...

MONUMENTS Guided by Pausanias, in the vicinity of Lepreo you could see the following : phenomenon that is still observed.

Lepreo in mythology and prehistory Lepreo was an ancient city of Elian Trifyllia, now a part of the sub prefecture of Olympia. It stood in the NE of Lepreo at an altitude of 400 m. above to the sea.

Excavations have proved that it had been inhabited since 3,000 BC .

There are various myths about the founder of the city.

According to one version, Lepreas or Lepreos was the son of Pyrgeas, according to another he was the son of Kaukon and Astydameia,

The ancient citadel The sanctuary and temple of Demeter The temple of Leukaios Zeus The tomb of Lykourgos, son of Aleos and Neaira of Arcadia The tomb of Kaukon, hero of Lepreo Various settlement The spring of Arene, just outside the town

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sister of Auveas. If this latter myth holds credence, then Lepreo must have been founded just before the Trojan war. However, myths are always myths.

It was also believed that Lepreas competed with Hercules in a number of contests among which who could pump more water, who could eat more meat and who would throw a javelin further.

In all cases Lepreas was narrowly defeated. Then he persuaded his uncle Augeas not to pay Hercules for cleansing the stable but instead to tie him up.

So Augeas refused to pay Hercules on the pretext that he hadn’t put much effort in the cleansing but had used the river instead. He didn’t though tie him

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«The remains of the Doric temple on the citadel of Lepreo.»

up as his niece, who had taken a liking for Hercules, intervened.

Then, according to mythology, Lepreas challenged Hercules to a duel and was killed and buried in Figalos.

In AD 173 Pausanias tried in vain to find Lepreas’ tomb in Figalos.

According to another myth, the name of the city comes from Leprea, daughter of Pyrgeas.

A later story links Lepreo to leprosy which once decimated the inhabitants.

Leprosy can’t be the reason either as it would have spread in the whole vicinity, something not mentioned anywhere.

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Lepreo is believed to have been initially inhabited by Kaukons. Then, according to Herodotus, the M i n i a n s migrated there from the island of Lemnos.

E x o v i g l i (Xovigli) Exovigli is to the east just above the fortress of ancient Lepreo. It is an elevation from which the whole area could be seen.

The word Exovigli derives from Exo (out) and Vigli (observation post). It is believed that is was part of the city’s fortification.

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The natural fortifications primarily and the manmade ones secondly gave Lepreo the opportunity to prevail in the area for a long period of time in contrast to Trifylean Pylos which succumbed to its neighbor’s attacks.

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Modern Lepreo Just below the fortress of Ancient Lepreo is the village of Lepreo known in the pasta as Strovitsi.

The name, Strovitsi, occurred between the 8-10 century AD during the Byzantine era. It is a remnant of the Slavic migrations. During the Frankish rule Strovitsi was under the fortress of Araklovo as it has been proven by an inscription found in Demetsana and a code (275) found in the monastery of the island of Patmos.

The connection between Araqklovo and Strovitsi marks the boundaries of the fortress of Araklovo which many sought in other locations whereas it was on the foot of mount Minthi.

After the Greek revolution, Lepreo

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remained prominent due to its location, its waters and its seven mills that milled the cereals of the area.

Lepreo also became the administrative center .

The municipality ceased to exist in 1840 when Kato (lower ) Figalo became the center.

Tholopotamos It is the name of the river that flows past the areas of Vrania, Vrasitsa, Korakofolia and Lepreo ending in the sea.It is so called (murky river) because the waters are murky as the river bed is at some parts argillaceous.

The seaside settlement got its name from the river and is called Tholo.

Lepreo: A fertile land full of springs...

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Getting away from everyday routine with Olympic trails... * If you are attracted by a land surrounded by myths and traditions, from prehistory to the present.

hrough the sounds of nature you will feel that fairies and nymphs arenearby, singing and bathing in the clear, crystal waters. A magical journey in time.

You’ll be impressed by the immense beauty of the very landscape that bore gods and heroes, Zeus, Apollo, Athena, Artemis, Dionysus and Hercules.

You’ll be in the same vicinity and feel the atmosphere in the land of the nymphs Thesoa, Neda and Agno.

You’ll be in the same area where Apollo, who was in love with the nymph Daphne, dressed up as a girl but revealed himself when he was to bathe with them in the river resulting in Daphne’s transformation into a bay, a tree that still surrounds the rivers of Olympia.

You’ll be in the same area where goat-footed Pan pursued nymph Syrix forcing her to turn into a reed on the banks of Alpheos. He then cut a reed and made the first musical instrument, the flute.

It is the same land where Alpheos chased Arethusa and forced her to become a spring in Ortygia, Italy.

It is where Hercules accomplished his feats before going to Olympia and founded the Olympic games.

Follow your senses in a journey through time.

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. ÂŤOur daily trips start at 8.30 from our offices in ancient Olympia and we return late in the afternoon.

1. ERYMANTHOS - LABIAFOLOI - ANCIENT OLYMPIA

This trail from mountainous Elia to Olympia is associated with the myths of Hercules and the course of mankind from primitive man to civilization. We set out in the morning from ancient Psofis, an ancient city dating back to 3,000 BC. According to mythology a wild boar, known as the boar of Erymanthos was at large in the area destroying the crops. Hercules caught the beast and handed it alive to Evrestheas thus accomplishing his third labor.

The boar of Erymanthos was none other than the waters of Erymanthos, which rushed destroying the fields. Hercules, a symbol of the sun and light melted the snow and changed the course of the river which stopped ruining the fields. The above myth depicts the struggle and victory of man over the elements and nature.

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Then we’ll visit Foloi. Here the victorious battle of Hercules over the centaurs symbolizes the victory of intellect over beast.

Both Hercules and we will follow the same itinerary and reach Alpheos.

The cleansing of Augeas’ stables - by changing the course of Alpheos and Peneios - symbolized the cleansing of corrupt authority. The river then leads us to the tranquil landscape of Olympia.

Our hiking begins further down. By following an old path we descend Erymanthos and reach a stone bridge connecting Paraloggi with Divri. We continue walking on the banks of Erymanthos, among rosebays, oloasters, osiers, oaks and plane trees. You’ll become part of nature, relaxing, respecting, belonging to this natural splendor together with the primeval gods. You follow Hercules’ footsteps, you’ll sense the energy of the location. You’ll hear the leaves rustling and the waters of Erymanthos. After a two-hour hike our journey is over. We’ll have lunch in a traditional tavern in Lambeia (Divri), a picturesque village. On our way back to Olympia, we’ll stop and admire the unique beauty of the Foloi oak forest.

2. Ancient Figalos-NedaEpicurean Apollo.

The trail starts in ancient Figalos.

We’ll be surrounded by ancient monuments, parts of the walls

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which protected a population of 70,000 and also temples and ancient burial sites.

Our descent towards Neda will start at the ancient aqueduct. Just before we get there, we’ll see a lovely waterfall.

As we reach Neda, we’ll start crossing a ravine of unique beauty while alternately walking on the banks of the river and in the river itself. As we continue hiking, the ravine will change from being a calm river flowing quietly to a rough river with strong currents before again becoming calm.

The continuous changes of scenery will amaze you. We’ll be encountering small crystal clear natural pools, in which you could swim. After about three hours an arched stone bridge will come into view.

If we continue walking in the river, we meet a waterfall after 200 m. before reaching Stomio, where Neda flows underground and for a while we’ll be in a magical underground world.

We’ll return to the bridge and follow the path that leads us to the waterfalls of Neda and the chapel. We’ll have lunch in the village of Plataria or a

barbeque by the river.

In the afternoon we’ll visit the temple of Epicurean Apollo, one of the most significant temples of antiquity, built by Iktinos, whose most famous work is the Parthenon.

If we’re lucky, we could witness a unique sunset before returning.

3. Temple of Epicurean ApolloAndritsaina- Mylaon (Soultina).

«As you walk, you’ll see Neda, sometimes stretching splendidly and peacefully while it could also be rough and foam rumbling through secrect passages».

The river Mylaon rises in mount Lykaio which according to mythology was Zeus’s birthplace. It flows by ancient Theisoa, named after a nymph who was one of those responsible for raising Zeus.

Mylaon flows a few km to the north of Andritsaina next to the village of Karmi and discharges into Alpheos.

It has a large volume of water all year round and has four stone bridges and many watermills.

We’ll set off from the picturesque village of Matesi and reach the Turkish bridge of Mylaon, now known as Soultina. From here we’ll travel across the river either by river-trekking or canyoning. It’ll be a great opportunity to forget your everyday routine and let yourselves enjoy the unique

landscape. You could hear birdsong, leaves rustling and the waters babbling.

After about an hour and a half, we’ll reach one of the most beautiful small ravines in Greece, over 80 m high and very narrow at the top. Here, there is an impressive 50 m high waterfall.

After resting, we’ll continue trekking towards Alpheos.

4. Triton- Ancient Alipheira- Sepeto monastery.

This trail involves rivertrekking and hiking and for those who are more adventurous rapel-

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canyoning in the Triton waterfalls, a journey through time among impressive unforgettable scenery.

We’ll start off in the morning, near the village of Amygdalies (almond trees) which is half way between Andritsaina and Kallithea.

After crossing the ravine and seeing the waterfalls of Triton, we’ll visit the monastery of Sepeto. Then we’ll have lunch and ascend towards ancient Alipheira from where we’ll start descending and reach river Kelados which is renowned for its watermills.

A bridge surrounded by lush vegetation

The two rivers that discharge in Alpheos just before Ladon flow close and are parallel. The area is surrounded by myths, strange monuments and traditions lost in the mists of time.

The rocks have been smoothed by the flowing river A waterfall

A captivating landscape surrounds those willing to walk and take in the immense beauty of the area.

Monuments of the past still impressive today.

Just by walking among the ruins you sense the prevailing atmosphere in this enticing land.

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« You’ll integrate with primeval nature, and feel you are part of a natural magnificence still inhabited by ancient gods.

You’ll hear the leaves rustling and the musical sounds from the crystal waters of Erymanthos, sometimes in adagio and others in crescendo.»

Among the sounds of the waterfalls and the signing birds you could still hear the nymphs playing somewhere around

The lagoon of Kotychi The forest of Strofylia One of the most rare and largest ecosystems in Greece and the Mediterranean.

A splendid combination of beauty

rom the cape of Araxos to Lechaina extends a stretch of land and water where dunes trap the water from the streams not allowing it to enter the sea.

The Kotychi lagoon and the coastal forest of Strofylia form a unique ecosystem. It is without doubt the most important environmental point of reference in the Peloponnese.

The forest of Strofylia is the largest

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«Caretta-Caretta sea turtles lay their eggs in the beaches of Kalogria and in the bay of Kyparissia»

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coastal forest in Greece and one of the most significant in the Mediterranean covering 4,750 acres. In the NE of the forest there are marshes and the small lake of Prokopos. In the SE is the marsh lake of Lamia. To the north near cape Araxos is the lagoon of Kalogria and to the south is Kotychi.

The centenarian stone pines

The centenarian stone pines, the sand dunes with the sea lilies, the ponds with the reeds, the tranquil beauty of the lagoon, the magnificent sunsets, the fishermen’s boats and huts are all integral parts of the landscape.

The name Strofylia comes from the stone pines which are also called Strofylia.

In the drier parts of the forest there are various kinds of bushes, bulrushes (Pistacia Lentiscus), mock privets (phillyrea latifolia), heaths (Erica arborea), myrtles (Myrtus communis)), holly oaks (Quercus coccifera), savines (Juniperous phoenicea) and wild cedar trees (Juniperous oxycedrus).

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«Stone pines are a distinctive kind of pine tree with an umbrella-like shape, they produce edible pine nuts. They form one of the largest pine forests in the Mediterranean.»

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«Prokopos and Kotychi are natural fish farms where a large variety of fish and eels dwell.

Several species of migratory birds spend the winter here.

There are birds observatories in the banks.»

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There is also an extensive variety of ammophilous vegetation among which is the lea lilly.

Maritime flora is very common on the banks of the lagoon, the prominent species are common glasswort (Salicornia europaea), arthrocnemum fruticosum and Halimione portylacoides. There are also many scirpus maritinaus, Phragmites australis, Elymus hispidus and Juncus maritimus.

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«The northern tip of the lagoon has been a natural fish farm for centuries.

It is believed that during the Venetian rule, the Vatican was supplied with gilt-head breams from these waters.»

Sea bass and eels

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The aqua fauna of the lagoon comprises sea bass, grey mullets, gilt-head breams and eels.

It is also the habitat of four amphibians and over twenty kinds of reptiles like frogs, toads and turtles. There are also foxes, hedgehogs, hares, weasels and ferrets.

Rare species of birds.

As far as ornithology is concerned, Kotychi is the most important wetland in the Peloponnese as it is situated on the western route of bird migration. During migration, you could watch rare species which stop over to rest and feed. More than a hundred species of birds have been observed in the area. Black-winged stilts, stone curlews, collared pratincoles, little terns, calandra larks, herons, etc.

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L E C H A I N A

Tradition and culture... echaina is built in the centre of the western plain of Elia; north of Penios river among the lagoon of Kotychi, the hills of St. George, Melissos river and the Ionian sea.

The municipality of Lechaina consists of the villages of Myrsini, Areti, Melissa, Borsio, Aghios Charalambos and Aghioi Theodoroi.

The town is f i r s t mentioned in a deed of sale dating back to 1324.

According to the deed, the then frank rules of Moreas (Peloponnese)

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sold the fief of Lechaina to a group Lechaina of bankers from Florence. is a cultural The above deed centre which proves that Lechaina was a offers hospitality prosperous village. and recreation Also, according to the Code of to its visitors P a n a g h i a Lechainiotissa, it was a village with a population of 750, some of which were Turkish landowners.

There are t w o opinions about the name of the town. One of t h e m , according to C. Eliopoulos says that it derives from a local

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inhabitant. The latter, according to folklorist D. Psychogios believes it derives from lechona (lying-in woman) since the local therapeutic waters of Moschoneri were used by women who had just given birth.

The large plain surrounding Lechaina is fertile and has been formed by the silting of Peneios river as well as more minor rivers.

The area of Myrtoundia, as it used to be called is one of the richest in water in the whole prefecture. The municipality of Myrtoundia between 1835 and 1912 included three of the six lagoons in the prefecture (Kotychi, Lamia, Limni) and three of the five hot water springs (Kounoupeli, Lindzi, Moschoneri).

Cultural activities Lechaina has always held remarkable cultural activities. The most famous child of Lechaina is the novelist Andreas Karkavitsas (18661922). He was a medical officer, which allowed him to travel extensively and get to know the Greek countryside. He is renowned for his descriptions of the sea and the mountain dwellers.

His most famous works are Ligeri (the supple girl) and Zetianos (the beggar).

The municipal library of Lechaina is notable for its rare books. It was founded in 1961 and houses 6,000 books. Visitors could also pay a visit to

the municipal folklore museum which hosts traditional household items. There are also exhibitions concerning the salt works of Kotychi, the processing of raisins, etc.

Lechaina holds a carnival every year where you could see the traditional janissary dance, an old Elian tradition that goes back to the cult of Dionysus.

Many mansions were built in the town at the end of the 19th century, a time of great prosperity for Lechaina.

Among them, the most significant are the Androutsopoulos building (constructed in 1905 by an Italian architect), the house of Karkavitsas

(1870), the Sarandopoulos residence (1900) and the Mastrovassilis building, the most imposing of all, with impressive ceilings.

There are also a number of squares, which are worth visiting. The central square where you could see St. Demetrius’ church, the war memorial and the statue of Karkavitsas.

Chadjiyiannis square named after the late mayor, the square of Panaghia where you could see the homonymous church and finally Sarandopoulos square.

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A N D R A V I D A

Renowned for its horses... ndravida is built to the north of Penioes river in the same location as Medieval Andravida. It is 4 km from Lechaina and16 km from Amaliada. The name is believed to derive from Frankish Andre Villa or Latin Atra Via which means black road, rough road. The area is flat and full of fields. The local

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It played a major role during the Frankish rule as it was the administrative centre of the Villaherduins

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inhabitants are occupied with farming, trading industry and construction.

The area produces raisins, vines, olives, cotton, vegetables, fruits and cereals.

Andravida holds a long tradition in horse breeding. The annual equestrian exhibition in September is

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one of the most prominent in Greece and the Balkans.

Andravida offers beautiful areas to visit, an interesting history and a rich intellectual background.

When the Frankish princes occupied the Peloponnesus, Andravida was in its prime thus becoming the capital of the

The equestrian fair is very popular.

principality.

The franks took full advantage of the area . As the chronicle of Moreas mentions : « This is the most brilliant land in Moreas, it lies in a plain, there are no forts or walls.»

Andravida played a major role during the revolution of 1821. It was responsible in association with Gastouni for the logistics of the freedom fighters. As a result, it was attacked by Ibrahim’s armies who had to retreat after the brave resistance they encountered from the local women who held heir ground until the men returned from the fields.

A bust of Captain Constadis Andraviotis.

In the mid 20’s a cultural society was formed by N. Tsamados, under his leadership a theatrical company was established as well as a primary school.

The golden beaches with the crystal clear waters of the Ionian sea will attract you

The immense light blue sea!

The immense light blue sea of Elia will charm you!

The vast blue sea!

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The beach extends from Kounoupeli in Vouprasio to Tholo in Zaharo offering a further motivation to visit Elia.

The beaches of Elia differ from each other so you have to visit as many as possible. Each of them has a distinctive characteristic beauty depending on the surroundings, the sea, the sand and also local initiative.

Accommodation is easy to find. There are numerous hotels, rooms to let and campsites that are close to the sea.

Kourouta beach

A...24 hour a day cosmopolitan spot ourouta is the most cosmopolitan resort in our prefecture. It is undoubtedly the hub of the summer. It comprises an extensive beach, awarded with a blue flag and plenty of stores and cafes which will cater for all your needs enabling you to relax and enjoy yourselves.

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The best destination for unforgettable holidays... alouki is a beach very close to Kourouta, here after swimming, you could enjoy a delicious meal in one of the local taverns or at the campsite. In the beach of Marathia you could visit the coastal forest. In summer you could watch a film at the local open-air cinema that’s located within the forest. You could also visit the beaches of Aghia Marina in Douneika and Savalia which also has taverns.

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Skafidia beach

Its ravish beauty captivates you t is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It is a beach of immense beauty visited by many in summer. A visit to the local caferestaurant is a must.

The Olympian Village hotel is located here offering one of the best organized beaches.

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Small but ravishly beautiful! espite being small, the beach of Arkoudi is really beautiful. It is surrounded by hotels and stores and receives many Greek and foreign visitors. There are umbrellas offering shade and a lifeguard. For those interested in fishing, the rocks at the end of the beach are a perfect spot.

Arkoudi

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Glyfa beach

Opening towards the Ionian sea lyfa is a very long beach with a small harbor. There is a canteen offering refreshments and snacks and many small hotels and rooms to let. The local seaside village has also got stores and restaurants.

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Thines beach

Renowned for its forest!!

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his is the beach preferred by young people. It is surrounded by a forest formed in the 50’s by the residents of Vartholomio. It offers two large stores, a night club and a cafe. The beach also offers umbrellas, showers, loungers, etc.

It is a popular night spot for young people and swimming at night has become a tradition!

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The cool shelter of Gastouni

t is one of the last remaining relatively untouched beaches in the prefecture.

There is a settlement that comes to life in summer, inhabited by residents from Gastouni. There are few shops that, nevertheless, cater for all your needs.

The golden sand and light blue water promise an outstanding time. The best time to visit is early in the morning or at noon.

Bouka-Palaiohori beach

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Killini beach 232

Offering a wide variety of facilities

t is a beautiful beach not far from the port, which offers you the opportunity to have a swim and a cup of coffee , icecream or a fish meal in one of the several restaurants.

The beach offers all the amenities you’ll need, loungers, umbrellas, showers, a canteen while there’s always a lifeguard on duty.

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One of the most popular beaches in Europe! elieve it or not, it’s one of the most popular beaches in ...Germany and other European countries! It’s been popular since the French camps were established there. It’s well known for its golden beach, a reason why big resorts like Club Robinson and Grecotel are located in the vicinity. The landscape is breathtaking while the water is shallow making it ideal for young children. It is also worth knowing that it’s awarded a blue flag every year.

Chryssi Akti (golden beach)

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An untouched heaven perfect for swimming

This is a popular spot for the residents of Gastouni. It is a beautiful long beach which has been chosen by the municipality of Nea Liossia in Attica and the municipality of Lechaina as the site for a hotel. Nearby lies «Green camp», a summer camp for children. There are also night clubs. The beach itself is quiet and off the beaten track.

Kounoupeli beach

Myrsini beach

For those seeking tradition and nature t is mentioned by Homer as Yrmini. This is an ideal spot for those who love nature and tradition. Just next to the sea is the chapel of St. Nicholas and the old spa. The beach is not very wide, nonetheless it’s very beautiful offering warm, shallow waters. To get there you walk or drive through the forest of Strofilia.

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Katakolo beach

An extending beach with a tropical tone

he beach next to the harbour of Katakolo has been upgraded lately offering apart from the natural beauty, the amenities of an organised beach.. There are deep blue waters and a cool spot, the local cafeteria which remains open till late. On the other side of the harbour, next to the marina, lies a sandy beach extending to Kyparissia. It is an ideal spot for water sports and winding down as it offers several fish taverns and cafes. There are many settlements on the coast like Alkyona, Kyani Akti, Asteria and Kavouri., where the residents of Pyrgos spend their summer holidays.

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Rare beauty in a historical location his is the site of the historical cove of Feia which lies on the seabed of Aghios Andreas. Rocks, clean waters and beautiful beaches give visitors the impression of a private beach. As you enter Aghios Andreas, you see the beach surrounded by the most beautiful cafes and restaurants in Peloponnesus . On your right is Matzakoura beach which seems to have remained untouched since its creation.

Aghios Andreas beach

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Aghios Elias beach

The California of Elia! he beach of Aghios Elias borders with the Olympian Village hotel. It is called the California of Elia due to its crystal clear waters, the hot golden sand and its immense surf. It is close to the villages of Myrtia and Skafidia. The Angelopoulos company has built there one of the best hotels in the country. The hotel’s beach is not only open to clients but also to visitors. There you could take advantage of the top class amenities and enjoy a safe swim, water sports, a meal and coffee.

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Spiantza beach 240

Offering soft golden sand and deep waters t borders with Katakolo beach and comprises several small summer settlements like Letrina, Sarakena, etc. It is renowned for its deep sea and dense sand. There are several canteens which are usually full. Also, cars are prohibited from the beach.

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Levendohori beach

The big one is good the small one is better... he big one is good, the small one is better.... There are two beaches here, the big one and the small one. Both have got dark sand and are surrounded by cliffs. Due to the spectacular landscape many locals and foreigners have bought a piece of land here to build summer houses. It is nevertheless a quiet, tranquil spot.

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Zaharo beach

Becoming more and more popular

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aharo beach is annually awarded a blue flag as one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the European Union, as a result it is a very popular spot for holidaymakers. It’s got golden, dense sand and is very long.

There are two restaurants which are also run as cafes and nightclubs. A beach volley tournament is held here every summer.

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Among the best in Greece! t is renowned for its cheap and good fish taverns. The sandy beach is popular among the young population who after swimming visit one of the several cafes.

Despite its name Kako Vato (rough crossing) it is one of the seven best beaches in Greece, visited by thousands , many of whom stay at the local campsite.

Kakovato beach

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Kaiafas beach

Pine clad and famous ts fame is linked to the spas which flourished here in the 20th century. The beach has lush vegetation, mostly pines. Many tourists from all over the world enjoy camping here. Recently, cultural and sports events have been hosted in Kaiafas like the water ski championship and youth festivals. There is a cafe and a restaurant while the spas on the islet still attract many visitors.

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Tholo beach

Getting better every year!

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t is becoming more and more popular. The name Tholo (hazy) doesn’t’ tell the truth any more as the water is crystal clear. There is a cafe which is open night and day and reminds us of an oasis in the middle of the vast sandy beach.

Tholo, together with Giannitsohori are the boundaries of Elia and Messinia.

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Kato Samiko beach

A perfect spot for sports t is one of the most popular beaches in Elia. Visitors are attracted by the sandy beach, the crystal clear waters and the beach bars. Sports events are regularly held in summer like beach volley tournaments.

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Epitalio beach

A cool haven

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he beach has changed because of the works carried out in the nearby Alpheos estuary. Nevertheless, it remains beautiful and clean. The restaurant on the beach offers good food and music till late at night.

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F O L O I

The forest of the Nymphs who fought over he tree clad It covers an area the ownership of plateau of O f 5 4 , 5 0 0 a c r e s the island of Foloi was named Naxos.

Folos after the centaur and is decided in favour Folos, son of unique in Greece of Dionysus who Selenos and the offered him a nymph Melia who lived here, according to mythology, in barrel of wine telling him to open it the mid 8th century BC. Centaurs when Hercules visited the area. Folos were half human and half horses. followed Dionysus’ instructions by Once, Folos was the arbitrator burying the barrel.

Hercules had been ordered by between Hephaestus and Dionysus

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« The ancient Greeks had devoted it to Zeus.

The Dryad nymphs dwelled in the woods each one of them representing a tree..»

Eurystheas to catch the wild boar of Erymanthos which ravaged the area, while he was in the vicinity he was offered hospitality by Folos. A feast took place in Folos’ cave where the sweet smelling wine was offered to Hercules. Other centaurs smelt the wine and attacked the cave in order to seize it. The battle ended with Hercules’ victory and

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his pursuit of the surviving centaurs.

When he returned to Foloi he found his friend Folos dying. Hercules then buried his trusted friend and named the area Foloi after him. The cave is near the village of Koumani where there are remains of the ancient city of Lasion.

« The plateau of the centaurs is unique!»

The forest and the legend of the oaks Most of the trees in the forest are oaks The ancient Greeks dedicated oaks to Zeus as they considered them a symbol of power. The forest was believed to be inhabited by Dryad nymphs, each of which represented a tree so when a nymph was born, a tree was born, too. According to mythology, the logging of an oak meant the death of a nymph so

« Foloi took its name from the homonymous centaur, son of Selenos and Melia , who lived between 776 and 724 BC. Centaurs were half human and half horses...»

logging was prohibited. The forest of Foloi is one of the most impressive and dense forests in Greece. The trees reach a height of 15-20 m and live for about 200 years. The forest also has plane trees and ferns. It takes up 54,500 acres. In antiquity Foloi was inhabited by wolves, deer, roe deer, boars, foxes and jackals. Nowadays, there are ferrets, foxes, jackals, badgers, squirrels and hares as well as otters which live on the banks of Ladon under the plane trees.

A panoramic view of Divri (Lambeia)

DIVRI A perfect destination in summer and winter It comprises seven neighborhoods with an intact unmolested character ivri is built amphitheatrically at an altitude of 900 m on the slopes of mount Labeia (Divri). It is renowned for its beautiful stone houses, lavish vegetation and springs.

The village consists of seven neighbourhoods extending in the ravine. The ancient city of Labeia used to lie here in antiquity though few ruins have been unearthed. It is cool in summer and covered in snow in winter thus being a popular destination for holidaymakers. There are hotels, a guesthouse and rooms to let. The locals are mostly farmers.

Sheep are bred producing excellent meat and dairy products. There are two monasteries in Divri, Chryssopege and Porestos. In the courtyard of Porestos there is a line of plane trees which have been

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The area is renowned for its excellent meat and dairy products

estimated to be 3,000 years old. In Divri you could also see many watermills and stone bridges.

The Goumero gorge It is also called Vrondolo and is worth crossing

THE GOUMERO GORGE oumero is located on the western slopes of mount Foloi 20 km from Olympia. The castle lies to the east of the village at an altitude of 617 m .It is surrounded by steep cliffs and unique geological features and has been characterized as a monument of unique beauty by the Ministry of Culture. According to mythology, the castle belonged to Folos, the king of the centaurs. The ancient city of Alysion lay there in Mycenaean times.

Homer refers to it as the ÂŤbeauty of AlisionÂť. Later it was inhabited by Dorians and Achaeans (between 1100 and 900 BC) as we could see from the Doric foundations of temples. There also used to be temples in honour of Hera and Artemis over which were built the Byzantine churches of Aghia Kyriaki and Ascension. Another significant monument is the monastery of Asketis. After the Slavs settled in the vicinity of the castle and were converted to Christianity, they built numerous churches. However, they were decimated, probably due to an epidemic proven by the discovery of mass graves mostly of young people.

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A characteristic photograph of rocks .

he area then was initially taken over by the Franks and in 1460 by the Turks. It was finally liberated on May 29, 1821.

The gorge is very beautiful and can be crossed all year round. On the trail we see Kaldrimi, which according to tradition, was part of the holy road connecting Helis and Olympia and used by athletes during the Olympic games. The route of the gorge forms a semi-circle as it starts and ends in Goumero. It passes by the monastery of Asketis (hermit) which lies in a cave used in antiquity as an oracle and a temple for the cult of an underground deity. Athletes would stop and offer a sacrifice on their way to Olympia. The monastery celebrates on August 31

and is considered a very important Byzantine monument. It took its name from a hermit who used to live there. There is no evidence of his name, age or origin. He lived under primitive conditions and was killed by a hunter who mistook him for game. Before dying, he crawled to a well whose water is considered holy. He was found holding an icon of the Holy Virgin. The gorge which is formed by two mountains is surrounded by a pine forest, lush vegetation and springs. There are two caves where the monastery lies. One of them is 200 sq. m. and serves as a church, this is where the well is. It is said that one of the 24 icons that St. Luke had made was here. The second cave is 300 sq. m and has stalactites. As we walk on we see the four ancient olive trees, one of them has a perimeter of15.5 m and the other 14.5. They are believed to have existed since the ancient games and used to make wreaths for the winners. According to mythology, Hercules was the first to plant an oloaster in Olympia. He had four brothers, Paionios, Emmides, Lasios and Edas. He was the eldest and one day took them to Olympia for a race which is believed to be the first race in

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The monastery of Asketes

ÂŤThe gorge starts and ends in Goumero.

It crosses the cave where there used to be an ancient oracle and where the monastery of Askitis (hermit) lies. It was named after a local hermit.

The gorge is surrounded by a pine forest, lush vegetation and several springsÂť

ÂŤThere are four ancient olive trees in the vicinity of the monastery of ASkitis.

They are believed to have existed since ancient times and their leaves were used to crown Olympic winners in antiquityÂť.

One of the four olive trees which are believed to have stood for thousands of years. Their perimeter reaches 15.5 metres.

human history. Hercules crowned the winner with an olive branch from the tree he had planted. The olive wreath was established as a prize for the Olympics by Iphitos after an oracle in

Delphi. In the previous Olympic games held in Athens, shot put took place in Olympia and the winners were awarded a wreath from the same trees.

The exhibition of traditional handicraft in Goumero.

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A narrow passage in the gorge

Spa tourism In Lindzi, Kaiafas and the rest of the area where there are hot springs

he prefecture of Elia has been

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Killini

endowed by nature with The springs of Lindzi

numerous sulphurous hot water springs which are renowned in Europe. Their location and the climate make them ideal for tourism.

They have been popular since antiquity as they are mentioned by Pausanias. They are particularly helpful for those suffering from respiratory problems. According to mythology, king Aneliagos, who

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probably suffered from respiratory or dermatological problems used them.

They are also supposed to link Helis and the area of Kastro via a subterranean tunnel.

Kaiafas

The most famous of all The Kaiafas spas came in systematic use in 1907 when the railway line was built. The waters consist of hydro sodium chloride and hydrogen

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sulphide. The cave is divided into two parts, the big and the small one. In the former the temperature is between 23oC and 35oC while in the latter between 29oC and 32oC . The cave is 200 m long and extends in tunnels deep into the mountain. The water, either hot or cold comes out from the ground and blends forming a natural Turkish bath which is therapeutic for several ailments such as : bone ailments (arthritis, disease of the spinal column, etc) dermatic disease, especially psoriasis and chronic respiratory problems. Apart from bathing, visitors could collect a kind of

ointment formed on the crevices which is called the «cream of God». It is a mixture of all the ingredients that lie in the waters. In close proximity to the cave is the spring of Geranio whose waters are a mixture of hydrogen sulphide and chloride natrium. The water here is drunk curing kidney, liver, gall bladder and bladder ailments.

Kounoupeli spa

This has also been used since antiquity, mainly for those suffering from arthritis. The hot water springs have a temperature of 28¯C and

contain sulphide, iron, sulphuric copper, carbonic sulphide, sulphuric magnesium, alkali and hydrochloric acid.

Xylokera

At the end of the 19th century an old woman would visit the «black spring» in Kapandriti an area near Iardanos, once known as Chryssopege (golden spring) in order to wash her greens.

After each visit she felt rejuvenated.

When the owner of the land looked into it he discovered that the water of the cistern cured arthritis Although little was known about the curative

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elements back then, the results were outstanding so the locals would use the water in exchange for goods. In 1951 the local springs were officially characterized as therapeutic. In the mid 80’s French geologists decided to investigate the origin and depth of the springs by inserting special pipes, similar to those used in mining.

However, to their surprise, they couldn’t determine the depth. They

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concluded that the springs are connected to others.

Lesser known spas Some of the lesser known local spas which have the potential for future development and exploitation are the following : Pournaria, located near ancient Herakleia and believed to be under the protection of the Ionide nymphs. Moschoneri, also known as

Vromoneri (dirty waters), it is a therapeutic bog between Etouni and Tragano. Piera, known since antiquity.

This is where the judges and athletes bathed on their way from Elis to Olympia. It is between DouneikaMyrtia and Aghios Elias in the location of Neromana. Samia, whish

is in Kleidi near Samiko in the municipality of Skillounda; here there are sulphide springs and a therapeutic bog. Also there are hot water springs in Aghios Thanassis in Lechaina, in Feia in Aghios Andreas and many more.

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MUNICIPALITY OF PENEIA

A perfect place for tours here are many historical monuments and archaeological sites to see in the municipality of Peneia. Ancient Oinoi, Armatove (Agrapidohori), Ephyra, the castle of Stamevo Hajji in Simopoulo, the artificial lake, the oak forest of Kapeli with the chapel of St. John the Baptist, all of which are worth visiting in this mountainous area. In summer several cultural events are hosted by the municipality such as concerts, traditional dances, etc. It is worth mentioning that there are 22 annual fairs in the villages of the vicinity

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Traditional fairs There are traditional fountains in the Tzami (Mosque) of Aygi, in Akropotamia, in Gavrakia and in Agnada. There are also interesting old water mills in Ephyra, Oinoi and Akropotamia. It is also worth visiting the artificial lake and the Peneios dam, one of the largest and most significant constructions in Elia.

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An area full of historical monuments and host of several cultural events every summer

A fertile land in a vital crossroads he name comes from the local river which has been associated with myths since the dawn of time.

Apart from the monastery of St. Nicholas in Fragopedemna another landmark is the castle in Korifi (mountain top) built in 400 BC as an observation post of Elis after the Spartans’ victory over the Elians.

Iardanos produces the bulk of citrus

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municipality of iar‰anos

From here you could visit Elis, Olympia and the mountainous region and enjoy yourselves in many ways

fruit in Elia. The oranges of Xilokera and Vounargo are among the best in Greece and Europe. There are nine municipal districts : Vounargo, an area with a long

history is the administrative centre. It is a picturesque village dating back to the Frankish conquest in 1205.

Vounargo means white mountain.

Alpohori. Is mentioned by the

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Venetians in the census of 1700 as Lupocori. Lupo means wolf but it slowly changed into Alpo. It consists of two settlements Hanakia and Kapandriti. Mycenaean tombs have been discovered in the area. Prasino used to be the administrative center of the municipality of Myrtia in the mid 19th century and used to be called Tzoyia. In 1963 it was renamed Prasino (green) as it is covered in trees.

Xilokera, which got its name from the abundant carob trees which the locals call Xilokeraties. There are many hot water springs in the area, which are unexploited.

Vrohitsa. The name is a diminution of rain (vrohi) and was given to the

village because of the local spring whose water came out in drops.

Vrohitsa has large fields where currants are produced.

Katsarou. The name comes from a Turk called Katsabei , who lived in the area and owned an inn.

Korifi (mountain top). In 1860 it was called Magoulianates, named after the homonymous village in Vitina, Gortynia. Later, it was called Koukouvitsa, a Slavic word meaning good observation post. The current name comes from the view that Korifi offers.

Aghioi Apostoloi (St. Apostoles). It used to be called Vitineika, the current name comes from the local church. It is next to Vrohitsa.

Phonaitika. The first inhabitants were from Pheneo in Corinth. The village is surrounded by currant vines and olive groves.

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Congress tourism is gaining ground ongress tourism has been of vital everyone knows, significant events importance for Elia in recent are organised by the International years. A significant role has been Olympic Academy every year aiming played by private investments in the at the universal dissemination of the Olympic ideals tourist sector, and the aiming at brotherhood of attracting a new Spacious halls p e o p l e s . kind of visitor who and convention Meanwhile, the would combine amenities two huge hotels, holidays with in attractive Olympian Village education, insurroundings in Skafidia and service training or charm the visitors Grecotel in Kilini work. Congress as well as others tourism has been developing rapidly mostly in Olympia in the area have built congress centres which hosts a large, ultramodern helping in their way the development congress centre in the International of congress tourism in our area. Not Olympic Academy, offering superb only do they offer the facilities but organisation of congresses, scientific also all the other services necessary in conventions and seminars in a Pan- order to organise successful Hellenic, European or global level. As congresses or conventions.

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Aghios Nicholaos (St. Nicholas) and Aghia Eleni (St. Helen) in Alipheira

Christian churches of historical significance he remnants of St. Nicholas and St. Helen were found in the archaeological site of Alipheira, 56 km from Pyrgos. St. Nicholas is on the north side of the hill near the eastern fortress of the Alipherean castle. The church was built at the end of the 17th century with stones and mud bricks. It is rectangular and measures 4.95 m. wide and 7 m. long. The arch of the sanctuary is exterior, three-

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sided and semi-circled in the interior. The roof was crossshaped while the interior had blind arches. Initially access to the church was available only from the west side while later a gate was built on the south side. There are three windows one of which is at the apse of the sanctuary. No murals have survived. The Byzantine chapel of St. Helen lies on the citadel of Alipheira. It was constructed over the remains of the pronaos of Athena’s temple with materials taken from the ancient monuments. It is a rectangular building measuring 4X8.9 m. To the east lies the exterior and interior semi-circle arch. It was divided into two parts by a cross wall,

the main temple to the east measuring 2.85X4.55 m. and the narthex to the west measuring 2.85X2.65 m. There was a narrow gate on the west side and a wider one that connected the narthex with the main part of the church. In the early 40’s the locals rebuilt the chapel without authorization. As a result it was pulled down in 1964.

The area of Oleni has its won ecclesiastical history

A bastion of Orthodoxy teep hills and cliffs, beautiful ravines , abundant springs, fertile plains, rivers and many villages all form a picturesque landscape in this beautiful corner of Elia.

The bastion of Orthodoxy was here, in historic Olena and its diocese. In antiquity, the area was a dominion of Pissa and here lay legendary cities : Amphipolis, Margana and Alesion.

Olena is first mentioned by Homer in the Iliad where Olena is referred to as the rock of Olena, the land of the Epenas. Much later in the 2nd century AD, Pausanias says that it was named after a rock in the area of Lestainitsa.

The prominence of the area is also evident in the coins and the vessels found dating back to Classical times.

The Alesion river , named after a local hero called Alesios, is mentioned by Strabo. In the Middle Ages, the area flourished especially between 900 and 1600. Legends mention fabulous riches, supernatural elements and Heleni or Oleni the ravishing beauty.

It is believed that before the Frankish

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rule, the whole of Elia was known as Oleni. During the 5th century AD it was a church province called the diocese of Oleni, which survived until 1821. During that period the diocese was twice an autonomous archdiocese dependent on the Patriarch of Constantinople (17271763) and the archdiocese of Tripoli (1763-1769). A year later, in 1770, during the Orlof revolution, bishop Anthimos became a martyr. Fifty years later on September 13, 1821 Filaretos the last bishop of Oleni also became a martyr..

Important monuments The greatest remnant of Olena is the cathedral built between the 9th and the 12th century, it is the most prominent remnant of Olena’s splendour. The Byzantine ceramic tiles, the Frankish crosses, the marbles, together with the rest of the findings are well worth seeing. Today the temple is a listed monument while excavations are still

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in progress.

Another significant monument is the narrow, arched gate of Olena castle, built of sculpted stones and including a 6 m. arch. It is a characteristic sample of Greek-Frankish architecture.

According to tradition, the castle was as big as the plateau and was believed to be either queen Helen’s- Oleni’s residence or the Byzantine church of St. George. The ruins of the church of the Holy Virgin are also of interest as well as the fountains of Palioolena dating back to the Turkish occupation, the ruins of the prophet Elias in Fakes, the church of the Ascension, Xamoni and Paliohori.

The hideout of Kremastiotissa

One of the most significant hideouts used during the Turkish occupation was the monastery of Kremastiotissa, where an icon of the Holy Virgin was miraculously discovered on the slopes of a ravine SE of the monastery.

According to tradition, the shepherds could see a light glowing, they followed the light and discovered a huge cave where the icon was suspended and glowed. The locals took this as a sign of freedom approaching and thus began building a church near their grazing grounds.

The icon then disappeared and appeared again in the cave where a church called Kremasti (hanging) was built. The priceless icon is silver plated apart from the faces of the Holy Virgin and Jesus.

The monastery dependency of Aghioi Theodoroi

It is situated in Heimadio, to the west of Olena and it flourished during the Turkish occupation. Between 1835 and 1840 it was an autonomous settlement belonging to the municipality of Herakleia. In 1912 it was annexed to Koutsohera and in 1954 it was returned to Heimadio, then known as Retendou. Three km to the south of Koutsohera is Tripio Lithari (the rock with a hole), named after a rock which locals believed to be therapeutic. To the north of Olena is Goumero, which has ruins of a medieval castle. In Goumero you could also visit the monastery of

Aghios Ioannis Nisteftos built in 1350, the church of Aghia Kyriaki (Holy Sunday) built over the temple of Hera, the church of the Ascension built on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Artemis. There is also Panagia Speliotissa, a Byzantine chapel built in a cave and an arched fountain called Houni, built during the Turkish occupation. However, the most interesting sight is the monastery of Asketes, which we have already talked about.

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A pre-Homeric city in the area of Vouprasio

Ancient Yrmine he area of ancient Yrmine is within the municipality of Vouprasio, near the spas of Kounoupeli. It is being developed and attracts many tourists. The city of Yrmine was built by Aktor, son of Forvan, grandson of Lapithes and brother of king Augeas to commemorate his mother Yrmine. It was built in pre-Homeric times and the first signs of human settlement date back to the Palaeolithic and Neolithic ages. There are ruins of a Frankish wall on one of the two hills.

It was built of stone and housed the local garrison. The second hill had a Christian church that must have been richly decorated as we could discern from the huge marble plaques and the engravings. Unfortunately, the largest part of the church was destroyed due to the defensive lines the Nazis erected during WW2.

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There was another building to the north which was probably the church of St. Peter’s. To the east there is also a church dedicated to St. Nicholas in which there is an icon believed to have been offered by a survivor of a shipwreck. On the top of a hill there is a square fortress with no gates, probably access was made by use of ladders or a moving bridge attached to a nearby fortress. Between the two bridges, you could see the foundations of a Pelasgean wall which proves the presence of a preHomeric citadel, something unique in the prefecture. Furthermore, near the hills are the foundations of several buildings which as the Iliad mentions  some are made of limestone

Elia : a land of culture ittle has changed since Aeschylus , Euripides and Sophocles staged their tragedies in the theatre of Elis. Contemporary Elians share the same devotion to culture.

The International festival of

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Ancient Olympia, the Festival of Elis, the Festival of the Greek Diaspora in Makrissia, the currant Festival in Krestena, the Equestrian Fair of Andravida and hundreds of traditional local fairs take place in Elia.

Ancient Olympia, the cradle of civilization , hosts annual cultural events at the stone theatre of Flokas (3,700 seats) every July, August and September.

The Festival of Ancient Elis, one of the oldest in the country is held in Ancient Elis, Chlemoutsi castle, Aghia Sophia in Andravida and Kourouta. It hosts musical and theatrical events.

The festival of the Greek Diaspora is held in the country chapel of Aghios Ioannis in Makrissia. The most renowned Greek composers, singers and painters take part praising the Diaspora.

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Elian products «play a leading role» in the international market The agricultural products of the prefecture are of outstanding quality and variety The fertility and productivity of the Elian land is the main reason why the majority of the population are farmers. The vast expanses of plains (391,250 acres out of a total of 654,250 acres), the fertile soil, the warm Mediterranean climate, the abundant underground waters are some of the reasons why many call

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Elia «the promised land» The vast irrigated areas produce a great variety of agricultural products which are sold in the Greek and international market. Among the products of Elia are the following : Industrial tomatoes, which are cultivated in 5,000 acres and produce 135,000 tons. The yield is usually

absorbed by the three factories of our prefecture (ELAIS, KYKNOS, ASTERIS) which produce 20,000 tons of tomato paste.

Potatoes, there are two types, spring potatoes and autumn ones, both of which produce a high yield of excellent quality sold both in Greece and abroad. About 30,000 tons are produced in 8,000 acres.

Watermelons, 220,000 tons of early watermelons are produced in 7,500 acres. Most of the yield (145,000 tons) is exported as it has a very good name in the European market. There is also a yield of 30,000 tons cultivated in 1,250 acres. Most watermelons are produced in Vouprasio, Lechaina, Kyllini, Douneika and Iardanos.

Melons, Elia produces 11,500 tons of melons belonging to various qualities in 1,000 acres.

Corn, it is produced in 30,000 acres yielding 120,000 tons. It is usually early and of excellent quality. A major role in its harvest, drying and trading is played by the local Associations of Agricultural Cooperatives , which own the special equipment for drying the produce.

Cereal, different types of cereal are cultivated like wheat, barley, oats, etc, which are produced in fields covering 43,000 acres.

Corinthian currants, despite the problems they remain one of the most important products of the prefecture. In the past currants used to be called ÂŤthe black goldÂť of Elia, playing a major role in the development and flourishing of trade. Corinthian currants are cultivated in 5,000 acres mainly in the

sub-province of Olympia (particularly in the municipality of Olena) and also in semi-mountainous areas with a yield of 10,000 tons. Despite competition, it remains one the best kinds of currants worldwide.

Olive oil- Olives, are produced in most pasts of Elia producing an average of 24,000 tons of olive oil. The prefecture is well known for its excellent quality, competing with the olive oil produced in Messenia and Crete. Rarely does the local olive oil contain more that 0.01 acids while the produce of Zaharo and Krestena is the finest. Olive trees constitute 65% of all productive trees while olive oil represents 10.5% of the gross value of agriculture in the prefecture.

As a result there are many olive factories and olive oil bottling factories in Elia.

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The method used for harvesting olives has remained the same since antiquity.

Edible olives are processed and packed in factories both in the area as well as in other parts of Greece.

Citrus fruit, one of the most important sectors of farming which produces the following : Oranges (Navellines, Navels, etc) about 35,000 tons.

Valencia oranges, about 5,000 tons.

Oranges for squash, about 17,000 tons.

Tangerines, about 7,200 tons.

Lemons, about 9,000 tons.

Citrus trees constitute 15% of the fruit producing trees. They are characterized by their fine quality and their early produce, making them popular in foreign markets.

Strawberries., it is a developing sector of agriculture mainly in Manolada, Varda and Lechaina. 500 acres are cultivated producing 4,200 tons.

Herbaceous plants, they are cultivated in 1,000 acres and

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produce 10,000 tons.

Vines, Elia has been producing wine since antiquity. The aromatic local wine has always been popular. It is not surprising that most households produce their own homemade wine. Many traders from all over Greece visit the prefecture during the grape harvest in order to buy local must. In recent years there has been an increase in bottling local wines which have become very popular abroad.

Greenhouses, the basic greenhouse cultivations include 62 acres of lettuce, courgettes, string beans, etc. 220 acres of tomatoes producing 10,000 tons, 90 acres of cucumbers producing 870,000 pairs and 50 acres of watermelons and melons.

Stockbreeding products Stockbreeding is a very important sector in Elia. In the mountainous and semi mountainous regions sheep and goats are bred. Milk producing cows yield 10,800 tons of milk. There are also 8 pig farms. Top quality feta cheese is produced while there are several cheese making and dairy product processing factories in the prefecture.

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Traditional local recipes

Enjoy the local delicacies!...

Gourmets have a lovely time here in winter and summer.

ou don’t just enjoy the beautiful nature in Elia. You could also taste the local delicacies prepared in local restaurants. Here are some of our most popular traditional recipes.

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Pumpkin pie with no pastry 6-8 portion could be eaten hot or cold Ingredients 1 kgr boiled, mashed pumpkin which has been grated and sauteed 4-5 soupspoons of olive oil

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1 grated onion, some finely cut parsley, some finely cut mint, salt, freshly grounded pepper, 1-1.5 cup of flour, 650 gr of mashed feta cheese, 1 cup of milk 4 slightly beaten eggs, half a cup of grated wholemeal rusks, some olive oil for the baking tray

Preheat the oven to 250oC. Place the pumpkin in a sieve to remove fluids. Mix 2 or 3 spoons of olive oil, the onions, the parsley, the mint, the salt and pepper and a cup of flower in the bowl. Don’t put too much salt as the feta cheese will probably be salty. Then add the two thirds of the cheese, the milk and the eggs. Mix well. If the mixture is too watery, add flour so that it becomes thick like a cake. Put olive oil in an oval Pyrex and sprinkle half of the rusks. Empty over it the mixture from the bowl and even it with a spatula. Then put in the rest of the cheese making sure it enters the mixture. Sprinkle the rest of the rusks and pour the rest of the oil. Bake for 20 minutes in a very hot oven and then lower the temperature to 180oC for another 20 minutes until brown. Let it cool before cutting.

Rabbit with peppers

Ingredients for 4 1 rabbit about 1200 gr.

1 green pepper 3 garlic cloves some parsley flour half a glass of vegetable stock 3 soupspoons of extra fine olive oil salt and pepper

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Cut the rabbit into pieces, wash and dry well. Then cover it in flour. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan, then place the rabbit in and fry lightly. Then place in a saucepan. Slice the pepper removing the seeds, the stem and the fibres.

Wash, dry and then cut into small pieces . Place the pepper, the cut up parsley, the slightly pounded garlic, the vegetable stock and the salt and pepper into the same frying pan you used for the rabbit. Let the mixture come to a boil. Place the mixture into the pan and cook in a medium temperature for 30-40 minutes stirring now and then and adding vegetable stock if necessary. Serve and eat as soon as the rabbit has boiled.

Cod with sauteed herbs Ingredients for 4 servings 1 kgr of mixed herbs (chards, chivories, etc.)

750 gr of salt cod fillet a small bunch of finely cut fresh onions 2 garlic cloves 1 sliced tomatoe half a bunch of finely cut parsley half a bunch of finely cut fennel salt and pepper some olive oil

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The night before, place the cod in a large water-filled bowl, change the water often so that the salt is removed. Before you cook, slice the herbs finely. Heat some olive oil in a saucepan and lightly fry the onion and garlic. Add the fennel, the tomato, the parsley, the herbs, salt and pepper and cook for 5 minutes.

Strain and dry the cod, sprinkle with salt and pepper and cover with flour before placing it in the saucepan. Add very little water if necessary and cook for 15-20 minutes until the fish has softened. Then serve.

Chicken with okra Ingredients for 4 servings 1 small chicken 500 gr of okra 2 finely cut onions 2 finely cut garlic cloves half a bunch of finely cut parsley 1 can of finely cut tomatoes 2 soupspoons of tomato paste salt and pepper 2 laurel leaves 1 cup of white wine half a cup of olive oil

Cut the chicken, boil for a few minutes and lightly fry in a big pan. Add the onion and garlic and lightly fry for 2 minutes. Pour in the wine and let it evaporate over a hot fire then add the tomatoes. Boil for 1 hour until the chicken has softened. Add the okra, some water, the parsley, the salt and pepper and

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slightly cook for 15 minutes. Then place everything in a tray and place it in the oven where you cook it for 20 minutes in a medium temperature. Serve hot.

Chickpeas with lemon sauce Ingredients for 4 to 5 servings 250 gr of chickpeas 1 big onion 3/4 of a cup of olive oil 2 carrots cut into roundels 4-5 courgettes cut into roundels 4-5 small tomatoes the juice of a lemon salt and pepper

Leave the chickpeas overnight in a bowl of water. Remove the water in the morning and sprinkle 2 teaspoonfuls of cooking soda. Leave them like that for 1 to 2 hours. Rinse the chickpeas with plenty of water and boil them with the onion until they are half soft. Lightly fry the courgettes and carrots. Then place them in the soup together with the olive oil and salt: Let them boil. Add the lemon juice, the tomatoes and slightly boil for 5 more minutes. Serve hot or lukewarm with croutons.

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Lamb with herbs and lemon juice Ingredients Half a cup of olive oil 11/2 kgr of lean lamb leg cut into pieces 1 big finely cut onion 1 cup of white wine salt and freshly grounded pepper 1 kgr of an assortment of well-rinsed herbs (chards, chivories, etc) 1/4 of a cup of fresh lemon juice 4-5 spoons of finely cut fennel or dill

Lightly fry the meat. Add the onion and lightly fry. Pour the wine, let it boil for 1 minute and then pour 1 cup of water. As soon as it boils, add salt and pepper and reduce the heat, cover and let the meat to lightly boil for 30-40 minutes stirring now and then and adding water if necessary. Remove the meat and wrap it in tinfoil so that it remains hot. Increase the heat and add the herbs. Boil for 5-10 minutes until they have cooked. Be careful not to overcook. Add the meat and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add the lemon juice and half of the fennel or dill. Stir carefully and let it boil. Taste it, if it’s too watery, remove the herbs and meat and cook in a higher temperature. serve and sprinkle the remaining fennel or dill.

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+3

OLYMPIC INN HOTEL

2**

41

Amaliada

10 Filelinon

272 00

+3

OLYMPOS HOTEL

2**

37

Pyrgos

2 Karkavitsa

271 00

+3

271 00

+3

270 50

+3

& Vass. Pavlou

294

PANTHEON HOTEL

2**

47

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7 Themistokleous

PARADISE HOTEL

2**

42

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PELOPS HOTEL

2**

18

Olympia

2 Varela

270 65

+3

PHEDIAS HOTEL

2**

9

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2 P. Spiliopoulou

270 65

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POSSIDON HOTEL

1*

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270 65

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3***

30

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270 54

+3

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25

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XENIA HOTEL

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270 50

+3

ARINI HOTEL

1*

37

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270 54

+3

HERMES HOTEL

1*

7

Olympia

270 65

+3

PARALIAKO HOTEL

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17

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270 54

+3

PRAXITELES HOTEL

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10

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270 65

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ZORBAS HOTEL

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19

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271 00

+3

APOLLON HOTEL

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8

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271 00

+3

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16

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270 54

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ELPIS HOTEL

1*

12

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270 53

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GEORGE HOTEL

E’CLASS

7

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270 50

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ILIDA HOTEL

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270 50

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63 P. Kondili

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19 I. Metaxa

O.

0 65

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FAX

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WEBSITE www.homepages. pathfinder.gr/olympictorch

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HOTELS - ROOMS TO LET H O T E L VRYNIOTI HOTEL

CATEG. ROOMS 2**

AREA

11

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20

Kaiafas

NEA LAIKA-XENON B’ HOTEL 1*

19

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ROYAL CLUB HOTEL

2**

14

KAIAFAS LAKE HOTEL

2**

ROAD

P.O. 270 67

+3

Palea Plaka

270 54

+3

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270 54

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Brinias

270 52

+3

20

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270 54

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5*****

560

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271 00

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16

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33

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ALDEMAR OLYMPIAN VILLAGE HOTEL & FURNISHED APTS www.aldemarhotels.com SOULIS FURNISHED APTS

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270 65

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24

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10

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7

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270 65

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16

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11

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270 50

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32

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CASTRO BEACH FURNISHED APTS OLYMPIA GOLDEN BEACH FURNISHED APTS

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O.

HOTELS - ROOMS TO LET TELEPHONE

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vrinioti@otenet.gr

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0 63

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297

USEFUL INFORMATION U S E F U L

T E L E P H O N E S

PYRGOS POLICE FLYING SQUAD 100 ELIA POLICE DEPARTMENT.: 2621/081730-081731 PYRGOS TRAFFIC POLICE, OFFICER ON DUTY: 2621/081742 PYRGOS POLICE STATION, OFFICER ON DUTY : 2621/081734 PYRGOS CID, OFFICER ON DUTY: 2621/081740 PYRGOS TRAFFIC POLICE: 2621/022100 KATAKOLO COASTGUARD: 2621/041206 & 041500 PYRGOS FIRE BRIGADE : 199 PREFECTS OFFICE: 2621/031800, 030000, 034840 PREFECTURE’S (KEP) CITIZENS’ BUREAU : 2621/033290 PYRGOS TOWN HALL: 2621/034444, 025555,034206 MUNICIPALITY OF PYRGOS INFORMATION DESK: 2621/035555 ¢EYA ¶YP°OY: 2621/033467 ¢EH ¶YP°OY (B§ABE™): 1050 PYRGOS IKA( NATIONAL INSURANCE): 2621/036944 PYRGOS IKA DOCTORS’ APPOINTMENTS: 184 AMALIADA POLICE STATION: 2622 / 038210 AMALIADA CID: 2622/024101-38232 AMALIADA FIRE BRIGADE: 2622 /022199 KILINI COASTGUARD: 2623/0 92211 AMALIADA TOWN HALL: 2622 / 038500, 038501 AMALIADA WATER COMPANY: 2622/023923 AMALIADA DEH (ELECTRICITY BOARD): 2622/022756 ANCIENT OLYMPIA FIRE BRIGADE: 2624/ 022300 LECHAINA FIRE BRIGADE: 2623/ 022177 KRESTENA FIRE BRIGADE: 2625/ 022199 KTEL INTERCITY BUS COMPANY: 2621/020600-020601 2621/020607 OSE (GREEK RAILWAYS): 2621/022525 / 022576 OTE (TELEPHONE COMPANY) : 121 KTEO (MINISTRY OF TRANSPORTATION CAR CHECKS): 2621/029913 WEATHER REPORT: 1448 OLYMPIC GAMES MUSEUM: 2624/022544 TELEPHONE DIRECTORY: 11888 NATIONAL LOTTERY: 1444

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TELEGRAMS: 136 THE TIME: 141 OBSERVATORY: 21/03462664 AWAKENING: 1402 ∆∞XIS

AMALIADA: 2622/ 028130, 028373, 028383,0 23777 LECHAINA: 2623/023060, 023335 ANCIENT OLYMPIA: 2624/ 022555 GASTOUNI: 2623/032311, 032294, 035100 ZAHARO: 2625/ 031357-031356 KRESTENA: 2625/ 022940 MAKRISIA: 2625/ 023800 ANDRAVIDA: 2623/054595/ 054288 VARTHOLOMIO: 2623/041600, 041500, 041400 PELOPIO: 2624/031996 KARATOULA: 2621/061343 TRAGANO: 2623/061390 RADIO TAXIS PYRGOS: 2621/025000 AMALIADA: 2622/022392 & 027666 ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA: 10400 EXPRESS SERVICE: 1154 HELLAS SERVICE: 2621/035087, 035781 HELLAS SERVICE GASTOUNI: 2623/033658 INTERSOS: 2621/037300 INTERSALONIKA: 2621/035504-023061 EUROPE ASSISTANCE: 2621/034788-032088 INTERAMERICAN: 2622/028851-1168 HOSPITALS PYRGOS: 2621/082300-360, 2621/082748 AMALIADA: 2622/028557 KRESTENA: 2625/022222 CENTRE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT: 2974/000567 HEALTH CENTRES: ANDRITSAINA: 2626/022222 VARDA: 2623/072222-072223 GASTOUNI: 2623/032222-033000 SIMOPOULO: 2622/031444-031555 POISON EMERGENCIES: 21/07793777

CLINICS HIPPOCRATES :

2621/026060026063-026069

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

RAFTING and other sports in Alpheos...

Taking part in the outdoor activities organized in Elia by Olympia Alternative Action, you’ll let yourself submerge into nature and test your limits.

299

Rafting

RaftingRaftingRaftingRafting

Try rafting in Alpheos, starting from Lousios down to Olympia. It is a sport for all ages which doesn’t require any experience or particular fitness. There is a variety of routes, from easy ones for novices to tough ones for the seasoned. The boats used are specially made and carry up to 8 persons including the captain. All the necessary equipment is provided (helmet, lifejacket, oilskin, socks and a Neopron dry suit) as well as transportation. Before setting off,

300

training is provided. Anyone over 8 could take part in the easy routes. The more difficult the route, the fitter you have to be.

RaftingRaftingRaftingRaftingRaftingRafting

Rafting Routes LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY R1 R2 R3 R4 R5

Alpheos Mouria-Ancient Olympia Lousios (Atsihalos bridge) up to Alpheos (Koukos bridge) Alpheos (Koukos bridge) up to Alpheos (Alfios camp) Lousios (Atsihalos bridge) up to Alpheos (Alfios camp) Alpheos (Alfios camp)- Sekoula

ROUND

LENGTH SEASON

π-ππ ππ-πππ

1,5 hour 2 hours

All year round February - November

II-III

2,5 hours

February - November

ππ - πππ

4 hours

February - November

π-ππ

1,5 hour

All year

Hy

HydrospeedHydrospeedHydrospeed It is a highly popular sport in which you flow down the river in specially made one-seated crafts. If you enjoy water sports and nature and want to sense a unique freedom then you should try Hydrospeed in one of the routes offered in Alpheos. There are several routes, rating from very easy to very difficult. No previous experience is necessary. You will be provided with a hydrospeed craft and all the necessary equipment (helmet, lifejacket, special socks and

302

HydrospeedHydrospeedHydrospeedHydrospeed Neopron dry suit) as well as transportation. An experienced guide escorts groups of 4 to 10 crafts. The

more difficult the route the fitter you should be.

∏1 ∏2 ∏3 ∏4

Alpheos Mouria-Ancient Olympia Alpheos (Koukos bridge) up to Alpheos (Alfios camp) Lousios (Atsihalos bridge) up to Alpheos (Alfios camp) Alpheos (Alfios camp)- Sekoula

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY

ROUND

LENGTH SEASON

π-ππ II-III

1,5 hour 2,5 hours

All year round February - November

ππ - πππ

4 hours

February - November

π-ππ

1,5 hour

All year round

River trekking-Canyoning-Rappel River trekking is considered by Olympia Alternative Action the greatest outdoor activity of all as the area has many beautiful rivers, some well-known like Neda and others that we discovered like Mylaon, Triton and Enippeas. The level of difficulty depends on the trail chosen. There are great trails catering for all ages , levels of experience and fitness. For extreme sports fans , canyoning is the most outstanding of all outdoor activities. It combines trekking, swimming and rappelling down a waterfall. You will

dive in the cool water, trek between high rocks, sense the imposing wild beauty of nature in a gorge making it an endless unique adventure for those seeking intense experiences.

Rappelling is for those who want to try a once-in- a- lifetime experience that’s not too physically demanding.

Actually it’s a form of abseiling by use of climbing ropes. Fitness is not required, however, basic knowledge of rappelling is necessary for those who want to try canyoning.

River trekking-Canyoning-Rappel-River trekking-Canyoning

Hydrospeed Routes

River Trekking-Canyoning Routes LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY RT-C-R1 RT-C-R2 RT-C-R3 RT-C-R4

MYLAON (SOULTINA) NEDA TRITON ENIPPEAS

π -πππ ππ π-πππ π-ππ

ROUND 4 hours 3+1 hours 2 hours 1,5 hour

LENGTH SEASON All year round March - November March - November All year round

Trekking There are quite a few trails to choose from depending on your wishes and the time you want to spend.

They range from easy trails to difficult and adventurous ones.

You could choose from a 2 day trip on the European trail 31 from Patras to Olympia or a 3 hour trip in the valley of Kladeos, which connects Ancient Elis

to Olympia. Escorted by our experienced guides, you’ll walk through tree clad slopes and ravines, through untouched primeval «secret passages». You’ll see rare animals and flora, archaeological sites, bridges, mills, hermitages and monasteries.

¢È·‰ÚÔ̤˜ ¶Â˙ÔÔÚ›·˜ - Trekking ¶-∆1 ¶-∆2 ¶-∆3 ¶-∆4 ¶-∆5

Foloi oak forest Kladeos valley Kryoneri-Enippeas Erymanthos ∂31

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY π π π -ππ π-ππ π-ππ

ROUND 2 hours 3 hours 4 hours 2 hours 8 hours

LENGTH SEASON All year round All year round All year round All year round All year round

trekking routes-trekking-trekking routes-trekking 305

MTB - mountain biking - MTB - mountain biking - MTB

306

MTBMountain Biking The Olympic mountain bike trails start in the mountains and end in Olympia. You’ll sense the abundance of

nature and see that there are still untouched areas. You’ll rest under age-long trees and sense the unique trail

full of myths. You’ll follow Hercules’ route, from the wild mountains to the tranquil landscape of Olympia. You could choose two day trips, on various trails which would lead you to Olympia. The groups consist of between 6 and 20 cyclists. Anyone aged 10 to 56 can do it as long as they can ride a bike. What you need is comfortable, light clothes and

water. Olympia Alternative Action will transport you to the starting point. There, you’ll be given your bike, helmet and an experienced guide will teach you the secrets of mountain biking before leading you on one of the enticing Olympic trails.

MTB Cycling trails One day trips ª∆µ1 ª∆µ2 ª∆µ3

Foloi oak forest-Enippeas-Ancient Olympia Epicurean Apollo-Andritsaina-Triton-Ancient Alipheira-ALpheos-Anc. Olympia Mount Lykaio-Epicurean Apollo-Anc. Figalos-Neda

Two day trips ª∆µ1.1 ª∆µ2.1 ª∆µ2.2

1st day: Planiteo-Psofis-tekking in Erymanthos-Lambeia- Foloi oak forest 2nd day : Foloi-Enippeas-Anc. Olympia 1st day : Mount Lykaio-rafting-hydrospeed in Alpheos-Alfios camp 2nd day : Epicurean Apollo-Andritsaina-Triton-Anc. Alipheira-Alpheos-Ancient Olympia 1st day : Mount Lykaio-Epicurean Apollo-Neda 2nd day : Anc. Figalos-Anc. Lepreo-Kaiafas. Ancient Olympia

307

RESTAURANTS - GRILL HOUSES - TAVERNS AREA OF PYRGOS AND ANCIENT OLYMPIA ISKEF IMBRAIM NASTASIE ANA TSAPOURI GEORGIA Antoniou-Tsonaka Aggelopoulos Andreas Aggelopoulou Elisabeth.

Agrios George Athanasopoulos Pandelis Alevizou Sotiria Alexandropoulos Demetrius Alexandropoulos Charilaos Alexopoulos Theodoros Alexopoulou Vaia Alexopoulou Nike Anagnostopoulos Soterios Anagnostopoulou Athanasia Anastassiou Christakis Anastasopoulos Demetrious Anastasopoulou Anthi Anastasopoulou Panagiota Anastopoulos Antonis Anastopoulos Vassilios Anastopoulou Vassiliki Andreas Drakopoulos and sons ltd Andriakopoulos Ioannis Andriolatos Charalambos Antzouli Eugenia Antoniou Evaggelos

Lalas Pelopio Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Pyrgos Goumero Skafidia Pyrgos Strefi Pyrgos Koumani Pyrgos Landzoi Vassilaki Anc. Olympis Karoutes Strefi Persaina Platanos Pyrgos Olena Anc. Olympia Platanos Lasteika Lambeia Katakolo Skafidia Pyrgos

6972812586 6945940387

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309

Antonopoulos K. Vassilios Antonopoulos Ch. Vassilios Antonopoulos Ioannis Antonopoulou Aristea Apostolopoulos Panagiotis Argyropoulos Petros Asemina Balla and co.

Asemakopoulos Nicholas Asemakopoulou Irene Asteropoulou Anna Asteropoulou Dionysia Bartzeliotis bros D. Georgiades bros Z. Famelos bros Kanellopouloi bros N. Lentziou bros Taktikou bros B. Kousavelos and co Kakogiannou-Kosmopoulou Varotsos Dionysios Vassilopoulou Vassiliki Vassilopoulou Evaggelia Vervita Kyriakoula Verras Nicholas Verras Chris Vlachou Anthoula Vourloumis D-Konstantopoulos C. Vrettos Demetrious Vrontou Alexandra Galanopoulou Vassiliki Georgakopoulou Antigone Georgakopoulou Maria G. Kotsakis-i. ALexiou Daras Georgopoulos Vassilios Georgopoulos Nicholas Giannakopoulos Alexander

310

Lasteika Anc. Olympia Strefi Alpheioussa Koliri Aghios Ioannis

2621029044 2624023045 2621037039

Strefi Xylokera Pyrgos Pyrgos Skourohori Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Linaria Karoutes Astras Pyrgos Pelopio Alpheiousa Pyrgos Mageira Aghios Georgios Katakolo Katakolo Xylokera Pyrgos Pyrgos Aghios Georgios Pelopio Katakolo Shinoi Pyrgos Pyrgos Miraka Aghios Ioannis

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2621036470

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2624022311 2621041344,

Giannakos Gerasimos Giannitsopoulos Dionysios Gianniotis Ioannis Giannopoulos Ioannis Gagos Demetrious Gamari Sophia Geldis Christos Gouseti Despoina Grita Routsi Aggeliki Gritas Routsis Con. Dagaris Andreas Dakouras Marios Damaskopoulou Maria Darras Ioannis Dema Pamnagiota Demakopoulos Con. Demetrakopoulou Nikoletta Demetropoulos Andreas Demetreopoulou Ioanna Demetreopoulou Panagiota Demetreopoulou Trsievgeni Demopoulos Anastassios Demopoulos Spyridon Diamandi Vassiliki Diamandopoulos Demetrious Dion. L. Mihalopoulos Drakopoulos Vassilios Drivelos Con. Evaggelopoulos Peter Zapantis Demetrious Zapantis Con. Zaharopoulou Antonia Zematoura Vassiliki Zounis Demetrious Zogopoulou Con. Zogopoulou Con.

Katakolo Pyrgos Pyrgos Vassilaki Katakolo Helidoni Pyrgos Katakolo Kalakeika Skafidia Floka Katakolo Varvasaina Pyrgos Pyrgos Myrtia Olena Pyrgos Lambeti Panopoulo Olena Katsarou Ambelonas Nemouta Olena Karatoula Platanos Lambeia Panopoulos Miraka Miraka Pyrgos Vounargo Anc. Olympia Varvasaina Varvasaina

2621041885 2621033814 2621-23311 2624071149 2621041217 2624051282 2621022624 2624041514

2624023264 2621029258 2621044920 2621030357 2621054194 2621032296 6945686508 6937363408 2621029790 2624061263

2621062440 2624023740 2624081081 2624022498 2621041742 2624022498 2621024980 2621051419 2624022644 2621044283

311

Zora Anna Eliopoulos Greg Eliopoulos Panagiotis Theodorakopoulou Theoni Theodoropoulos Antonios Theodoropoulos Nicholas Theodore Hristofillopoulos K.Kyriakopoulos-A. Koriakianiti and co K. Alexopoulos-N. Patrikios K. Tsoulis and co Kavvathas con.

Kalathas Th. Kofopoulos P. Kallas Alkiviades Kallimoros Stamatis Kalogeropoulou Asemina Kanellopoulos P. Georgios Kanellopoulos H. Georgios Kanellopoulou Agapi Kanellopoulou Nikoleta Kanellopoulou Paraskevi Kandris Peter Kappis Vassilios Karagiannis Con. Karambali Athanasia Karambelas George Karandoni Aggeliki Karapanagioti Despoina Karvouniaris Theodore Karkoulias John Karousos Paul Katsiva Dionysia Koiliomeniatis Dionysios Koiliomeniatis Athanassios Kokkinogenis Demetrious Kolveris John Koloka Demeter

312

Pyrgos Pyrgos Karatoula Karatoula Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Skourohori Vitineika Katakolo Pyrgos Hanakia Lala Anc. Olympia Lala Anc. Olympia Elaionas Myrtia Levendohor Ahladini Aghios Giorgios Pyrgos Pyrgos Elaionas Katakolo Salmoni Koumani Katakolo Pyrgos Katakolo Katakolo Myrtia Epitalio Pyrgos

2621032507 2621035686 2621062440 2621062000 2621033900 2621030702 2621027222 2621022292 2621032153 2624023685 2621054250

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2621095125 2621041128 2621044820 2624061068 2621041209 2621028953 2621041900 2621055125 2621071252 2621044406

Kondylis Aggelos Kondaxi Anna Korfiati Theodora Kosmopoulos George Kotsoletis Fotis Koukouli Antonia Koulis Vassilioes Koundouris Vassileios Kourvas Anastasios Kourvas Demetrious Kourelesi Geirgia Kousavelos Agathokles Kousteni Efstathia Koutra Demeter Koutra Sophia Kypraiou Marilena Kyriazi Athena Kyriazopoulou Fani Kyriakopoulou Despoina Konstantakopoulos Demetrious Konstadaras Con. Konstandinou Vassiliki Knostadopoulos George Konstadopoulos Dionysios Konstadopoulou Dionysia Kostarias Demetrious Kotsakis George Kotsopoulos Nicholas Kotsopoulou Vassiliki Ladas George Lambropoulos Charalambow Lambros Marinos Leo-Herman Rueg P Liava Xanthi Louris Con. Lymperopoulos Char.

Anc. Olympia Alpheousa Katakolo Anc. Olympia Katsarou Pyrgos Alpheiousa Varvasaina Kato Strefi Strefi Xylokera Pyrgos Pyrgos Koumani Koliri Levendohori Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Korifi Epitalio Pyrgos Lala Pyrgos Heimadio Pyrgos Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Pelopio Alpohori Vrohitsa Karoutes Pyrgos yrgos Katakolo Herakleia Vrohitsa

2621030615 2624022541 2621051362 2622026810 2621071009 2621044480 2624031588 2621021975 2621026976 2621030422 2624061391 2621027763 2621055124 2624023567 2621027694 2621095649 2621072066 2624041848 2621033883 2621035535 2621021904 2624030360 2621022229 2624031439 2621054306 2621095184 2621062231 2621029822 2621041217 2624031366 2621095333

313

Lyris Efstathios Maleviti Demeter Mamalaki Nikoletta Maniati Aggeliki Maniatis Stylianos Manos Evaggelos Mandas Pandelis Mandzara Maria Mandziounis John Mandzouni Georgia Markopoulos John Markos Demetrious Mastorelis Panagiotis Matsoukas George Mavromihalis Demetrious Mahairas Dionysios Melios John Moshogiannis George Bakatsi Agoritsa Bakopoulos Con. Bakopoulou Melia Balaska Sophia Barbouti Catherine Batzika Anastassia Bevoudas John Bevoudas Spyro Bekiri Alexandra Bellia Nikolitsa Belbas John Biris Bill Boulouta Aristea Nikolakopoulos Andrew Nikolaopoulos Chris Nikoleta Papandiamandopoulou Nikoloutsou Gerogia Datsopoulos Andrew

314

Katakolo Aghios Elias Pyrgos Katakolo Levendohori Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Panopoulos Pyrgos Pyrgos Foloi AStras Skourohori Pyrgos Myrtia Landzoi Kafkonia Skafidia Pyrgos Pyrgos Mouzaki Pelopio Skourohori Pyrgos Pyrgos Levendohori Pyrgos Granitseika almoni Pyrgos Herakleia Myrtia Korakohori Pyrgos Levendohori

2621041300 2621055038 2621041910 2621054056 26240 22104 2621031754 2624061193 6937151210 6993695602 2624062010 2692082224 26210 96223

2621061053, 2621031613 2621024953 2621022132 26210 62228 2621054223 2624023225

2621032032 2621054336 2621051822 2621044888 2624031065 2621054238 2621020533

Didifas Panagiotis Dokos Elias A.A Kosmopoulos Hotel and tourist companies Xenou Catherine Xydia Fotini Xona Euftihia P. Hristakopoulos-D. Gatsis ltd P. Kottas-Th. Hiliou P. Papaioannou and co Panagakopoulos Andrew Pan and Con Hristakopoulos Panagiotopoulos Stamatios Panagopoulou Georgia PAnagopoulou Tassia Panagouli Pagona Panagoulis Panagiotis Papadopoulos N. George Papadopoulos George Papadopoulos Mike Papaelias Dionysios Papakostopoulou Lambrini Papanagiotou Maria Papanikolaou Xanthi Papandonis Panagiotis Papandonis H. & V. Petrides Papasyriopoulos Steve S Papasotiriou Demetrious Papoulia Paraskevi Papoulias Bill Paraskevopoulos Athanassios Paraskevopoulou Theofani Patrinos Fotis Patrinos H. Andrew Patrinou Alexandra Patsis Andrew

Pyrgos Landzoi Anc. Olympia Varvasaina Varvasaina Pelopio Pyrgos Epitalio Anc. Olympia Mouzaki Pyrgos Ag. Andreas Katakolo Ag. Ioannis Pyrgos Lambeia Pyrgos Ag. Ioannis Aghia Anna Skourohori Koliri Oreini Epitalio Pyrgos Pyrgos almoni Anc. Olympia Elaionas Koumani Pyrgos Anc. Olympia Korakohoris Katakolo Korakohori Lambeia

6944452575,

2621044584 2621026725 2624023725 2621071233 2621061134 2621028388 2621041457 2621030984 2621034473 2621023905 26210 81308 2621093214 2621093237 2621096145 2621024982 2624081387 2621035636 2621031000 2621044845 2624023322 2624061356 2621034879 2621041448 2621041718 2621041448

315

Pafiliari Maria Pafiliaris Panagiotis Pafiolis Demetrious Pafiolis Panagiotis Petropoulos E & D P{etropoulou Christine Pestianas Theodore Pettas Theodore Plastourgos John Plemmenos Spyro Radea Kanella-Mirysi Antonia Raphael Polyxeni Revelou Zoe r. Kanelopoulou-P. Darzanou Roussias Demetreious S. Aggelis-Carmen D. Pavlopoulou Sgouros Theodore Skartsiari Fotini Sofianou Georgia Sofos John Sofos Panagiotis Speliopoulos Con. Speliopoulou Sophia Speliotopoulos Dionysios Speliotopoulos Nicholas Spyropoulou Antonia Spyro Lymberopoulos Stathopoulou Maria Stamatopoulos Chris Stasinopoulos Panos Stasinoulias Socrates Stavropoulos Andrew Stavropoulos Bill Stavropoulos Nicholas Stavropoulos Panagiotis Strouza Panagiota

316

Lanthi Lanthi Granitseika Katakolo Karoures-Smili Kleindia Pyrgos Ag. Elias Lambeti Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Vounargo

2621061306 2621062444 2621041343 6932553383 2621044655, 93378

Miraka Zaharo Pyrgos Linaria Ag. Anna Pyrgos Pyrgos Anc. Olympia Anc. Olympia Ambelonas Ambelonas Floka Pyrgos Katakolo Katakolo Pelopio Epitalio Skafidia Kalakeika Karatoula Sopi Ag. Ioannis

6937115667 2625025282 2621025889 2624022433

35107 2621032109 6972677613 2621030503

2621027255 2621032105 2624023620 2624023414 2621095500 2621095415-95569 2624023134 2621023100 2621041171 2621041238 2621071777 2621054352

2621061283 2621054684

Syriopoulos George Soterios S. Kolveris P. Haralambopoulos Soterios Liabotis-John Romaios Sotiropoulou Aphrodite Tagalaki Elisabeth Tagalakis Pericles Tambotelis Vassileios Tassoulopoulou Penelope Tzanis Nik Tzevelekou Theodoti Telemachos Manos Touri Fotini Triviza Aspasia Tryfonopoulos Geroge Tsagaris Lambros Tsami Catherine Tsamboukas Apostolos Tsamboukas John Tsamboukou Akrivi Tsapara Anneta Tsarouhas Theodore Tsoukala Anastasia Tyligadas Bill Fakalos Con. Foufopoulos Elias Fragiskou Anna Fragogiannopoulou Lambia Fyttas Con. Fotkaopoulou Vassilo Fotopoulos Bill H. Zafeiropoulos-G. Zafeiropoulos Halilopoulos George Hamakos Vassileios Haralambopoulos Antonios E Haralambopoulou Theodora

Mouzaki

2622093098

Epitalio Prasino Vounargo Epitalio Pyrgos Pyrgos Anc Pissa Pefki Goumero Anc. Olympia Pyrgos Vounargo Karatoula Pyrgos Pyrgos Helidoni Pyrgos Goumero Ambelonas Lasteika Ancient. Olympia Spiantza Lasteika Pyrgos Goumero Pyrgos Pyrgos Goumero FLoka Katakolo Pyrgos Pyrgos pitalio Levendohori

2621072036

2621072066 2621028719 2621037247 2621093526 2621093510 2621030812 2621029868 2621035227 2624031991 2624051203 2621021844 2621093092 2621029762 2621031424 2624028277 2621036569 2621032072 2621093086 2621027780 2621024064 2621093055 23084 2621026210 2621054988 624072036 2621055124

317

Haralambous Chris Harvalis Neokles Hidiroglou Kaliroi Chris Haralambous Hrsitakopoulou Maria S Hrsitodoulopoulou Eleni Hristopoulos Bill Hristopoulos George Hristopoulou Anna Hristopoulou Ioanna Hristopoulou Panagiota Hrystofilopoulos Theodore Hrysikopoulos Con. Hrysikopoulos Chris Psari Maria

Platanos Lasteika Pyrgos Pyrgos trefi Vounargo Pyrgos Koliri Ag. elias Lambeti Koskina Katakolo Katakolo Smila Katakolo.

2621029924

2621051301

2621023317 2621029997 2621041211 2624031844

AMALIADA AREA

Atanassova-Siriou Aneliva Aggelopoulos Panagiotis Alexopoulos Christopher Anagnostopoulos Con. Andirkopoulou Aphrodite Andonatos Sotirios Andonopoulos George Arvanitaki Zoe B. & K. Efstathopoulos Valkana Catherina Vassilakopoulos Bill Vassilakopoulos Nik. Vassilakopoulos Chris Violidaki Irene Voilas Fotis Vousdoukos Theodore G. Kotsifas and co

318

Amaliada Havari Amaliada Kourouta Peristeri Amaliada Latta Amaliada Avgi Latifi Latta Latta Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Kourouta

2622026900 2622091001 2622025033 2622022900 95224 2622021097 2622031190

2622031214 31214 6995369966 2622022561 2622028776 2622023081 2622024481

Georgakopoulos Aggelos G. Kondaris-John Tseregounis ltd Georgiou Pan. Giannopoulos Con. Giatra Sophia Gaitatzis Fotis Gouverou Dionysia Grilla Kostoula Grillas Alex D. Gouveros-H. Panagiotopoulou Dervou Con. Demakopoulos Panagiotis Demas Bill D. Hrstogiorgos-A. Korontzis Doukas Pan. Ag. Dounias John Efthimiou Pan. Zagarelou Georgia Zaharopoulos Andrew Zerva Tassia Eliopoulos Agamemnon Eliopoulos Nik Theodoropoulos Theodore Theodoropoulou Maria Ioannieds Demetrious Kavourinou Aggeliki Karavela Eleni Karagiannaki Gerogia Karakonstandi Theodora Karamanos Alexander Karapiperis George Karvounis Gerorge Kassas Spelios Katsaros Pan. Katsarou Stauroula Kafkopoulos Con.

Marathia Amaliada Kardamas Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Daphne Havari Amaliada Amaliada Daphniotissa Palouki Amaliada Amaliada Demetrios Amaliada Kourouta Amaliada Efyra Havari Amaliada Douneika Amaliada Simopoulo Amaliada Kardamas Skleva Amaliada Amaliada Sosti Vouliagmeni Rodia Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada

2622026991 2622038388 2621026773 2622-25114 2622061730 2622021404 2622094683 2622091596 2622026722 26220-25075, 2622094397

2622041549 2622024950 2622024950 2622027404 6942021566 2622091429 26220 92363 2622092351 2622021583 2622031849 2622029431 2622029091 2622021323 2622041348

2622021745 2622023443 2622029798 2622029738

319

Kleterenou Eleni Kokkoni Panagiota Kollia Anastasia Korizi Maria Korbakis Theo.

Kotsalis Nik Kotsifa Aggeliki Kotsifas V. John Kotsifas G. John Kyprianos Spyro Con. Giannopoulos Lambropoulou Panagiota Liapopoulos John Markopoulou Zahari Moshogianni Athanasia Mottas Spyro Bambikis Spyro Bekiari Christofora Betsos John Botonia Dionysios Bravos Chris Brani Aphrodite Nikolopoulos Alkiviadis Nikolopoulos Nik Nikolopoulos Chris Demiris Nik Dourou Kalliopi Xenofos Nik Xenofou Athena Panagopoulos John Papageorgiou Nik Papadopoulos George Papadopoulos Demetrious Papadopoulos John Papanikolaou Eleftheria Papanikolaou Maria

320

Efyra Havari Amailada Palouki Ag. Triada Amaliada Amaliada Kryoneri Kourouta Amaliada Kourouta Amaliada Geraki Geraki Amaliada Amaliada Efyra Amaliada Amaliada Kourouta Havari Amaliada Simopoulo Amaliada Marathia Roviata Douneika Douneika Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Ag. Demetrios Ag. Demetrios

2622022650 2622028340 2622031708 2622022404 2622094633 2622021867 2622022622

2622024413 2622022844 622022212 2622051222

2622024481 2622091208, 2622025121 2622031849 2622022928 2622023229 2622061191 2622092288 2622024221 2622022969 2622023493 6936654394 2622041534 2622041534

Patsos John Petropoulos Tryfon Pettas Athanasios Siahami Georgia Saihamis Athanasios Sinanos Nik Skourlis Nik Speliopoulou Sophia Spinos Tom Spyropoulos Spyro Spyropoulou Fotini Stathopoulou Maria Stamatopoulou Paraskevi Syrios Apostolos Soteropoulos Nik Sotiropoulos Panagiotis Tefanis George Tsaparas Theodore Tsekouras Bill Tsiganos Nik Tsioutsias Nik Tsihlias John Fragos Bill Haralambopoulos Petros Hasalevris John Chris Konstadopoulos and co ltd Hristkaopoulou Anastasia Hrysanthakopoulos George Psahoulias Pana.

Psyhogios Con.

Amaliada Daphniotissa Myrtia Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Kardamas Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Douneika Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Kardamas Amaliada Simpoulou Amaliada Douneika Kourouta.

2622094632 2621054532 2622028996 2622026144 2622029445 2622027068 2622024136 2622029574 2622038490 2622022413 2622024866 2622029654 2622025052 2622092352, 622023408 2622027819 2622028064 6974139551 2622026527 2622029993 2622025932

2622022760

GASTOUNI - VARTHOLOMIO AREA Manianis Dionysios Avramides Abraham Al Pet traders of restaurant leisure

Loutra Kilini Gastouni

2623042573 2623035104

321

and tourism equipment Alexandropoulos Pan Andriopoulos Peter Andropoulou Athanasia Androutsos Peter Andonatou Sophia Andonopoulou Eleni Arapoglou Eleftherios Ch. and D. Mourtzinis bros Vithoulkas Peter Galiatsatos Theokletos Gargalianou Evaggelia Giatras Taigetos Giogakis George Degaiti Ioanna Delygiannis Alexander Zafiropoulou Eleni Zafiropoulou Ioanna Thanassoulia Georgia Theodoropoulos Geroge Theofilopoulou Amalia Ioannide Panagiota Kaklamanos Nektarios Kalaritis Haralambos Kalariti Dionysia Kamba Anastasia Karaskoutis Aggelos Kehaoglou Stelios Kladis Jim Kotsafti Sophia Kounanis Dionysios Kypriotou Loukia Loukopoulou Zoe Loizou Christina Lykogiannis John Madoura Eleni

322

Lygia Kavasila Vartholomio Vartholomio Vartholomio Vartholomio Paliohori Gastouni Arkoudi Gastouni Gastouni Vartholomio Vartholomio Glyfa Paliohori Gastouni VartholomioďŹ Pyrgos Vrana Lygia Vartholomio Gastouni Gastouni Gastouni Pyrgos Gastouni Gastouni Gastouni Gastouni Agia Mavra Gastouni Vartholomio Vartholomio Gastouni Lygia Gastouni

2623096171 2621032454

2623041634 2623042514 2623032907 2623032214 2623096297 2623033681 2623035244 2623096247 2623096025

2623041468

2623096411 2623041536 2623034057 262303280 2623032512 2623032170 2623032144 2623032176 2623035558 2623035711 2623032917 2623041005 2623041457 2623035766 2623096402 2623033983, 32464

Makri Aggeliki Manoliadou Kyriakoula Manolopoulou Catherine Marinopoulos Charalambos Marinou Anastasia Mermigis Leonidas Mermigis George Metropoulos Dionysios Moschos John Moulas Fotios Bougos George Bougas Dionysios Bugou Stamatia Mylona Vasiliki Naou Catherine Dougas Panagiotis Duka Demeter Papageorgiou Stavros Papademetropoulos Ioannis Papademetropoulos Petros Papalinardos Athanasios Paparousakis Athanasios Polyhronopoulos Epameinondas Potamianou Martha Reglis Demetreios Retzis George Rovina Vasiliki Seidopoulou Maria Sideri Theofania Sideris Dionysios Skarsouli Dionysia Skafidiotis Demetrios Skouris Athanasios Spai Ignatia Spyropoulou Joanna Spyropoulou Artemis

Savalia Vartholomio Marathia Vartolomio Vartholomio Vartolomio Vartholomio Vartholomio Glyfa Koroivos Arkoudi Gastouni Arkoudi Gastouni Aghia Mavra Arkoudi Glyf路 Vartholomio Kavasila Kavasila Gastouni Savalia Kardiakafti Vartholomio Roupaki Lygia Arkoudi Arkoudi Glyfa Ambelokambos Vartholomio Vartholomio Kalyvia Gastouni Savalia Savalia

2622061482 2623042733 61440 2623041231 2623041209 2623042002 2623041220 2623096025 2623033137 2623096204 2623033504

2623033856 2623096025 2623042058 2623033256 2623033256 2623032694 2623033763 2623033179 2623096426 2623096475 2623096176 2622061315 2623043823 2623096365 2623041029 2623061474 2622061659

323

Stathopoulos Nicholas Stamiris Charalambos Stergiopoulos Michalis Terzis Stylianos Tsakopiakos George Tsongas Panagiotis-Kolliopoulos Con. Tsoutsas Demetrios Fligos Michael Hozovitis Panagiotis Christopoulos Panagiotis Chroni Nikoletta

Kalyvia Aghia Mavra

2623041431 2623033858

Gastouni Koroivos Kardiakafti Vartholomio Glyfa Avgeio Vartholomio Palaiochori

2623032155 2623034296 2623032354 2623096395 6946422643 2623042361 2623035269.

ZAHARO AREA Andonopoulou Aggeliki Galatis Panagiotis Gerostathou Kanella George Tzinos and co ltd Georgoulias Demosthenes Gotsis Euthimios Loutra Gournas Con. Douka Despoina Doufa Efstathia Drakopoulos Vasilios Drakos Nicholas Zafeiraki Vasiliki Zerbini Helen Kalykas Efstratios Kanellis Gregory Kanellis Zacharias Kartas Panagiotis Kastrinou Maria Klonarakis Evaggelos Koliademas Armodios Koliademas Con. Kollas Panagiotis

324

Zaharo Zaharo Giannitsohori Zaharo Arene Kaiafa Kaiafas Kakovatos Anelio Zaharo Tholo Anelio Kakovatos Neohori Kakovatos Kakovatos Artemida Arene Giannitsohori Kakovatos Zaharo Zaharo

2625031337 6945329843 2625061063 2625031472 2625071239 2625031703 2625032921 2625032290 2625031985 2625061050 2625032836 2625031103

6945903355 2625033544 2625033497 2625061945 2625032148 2625032290 2625034411

Koborozou Con. Kondoletas Anastasios Korkolis Panagiotis Korovesis Nik. Kotsopoulou Kalliope Kourouvani Chryssoula Kourouvanis Anastasios Kourouvanis George Koutsogiannis Fotios Konstandopoulos Theodore Lambropoulos Con. Mihelis Con. Balademas Hercules Nikolopoulos George Nikolopoulos D. George Nikolopoulou Maria Papadopoulou Harikleia Papalexopoulos Alex Papanikolaou Con. Petropoulos Anastasios Pitaras Elias Poulakidas Panagiotis Roumeliotis Demosthenes Skaltsas Panagiotis Speliopoulos Ioannis Stathopoulou Nikolia Syrtzioti Spyridoula Soteropoulos Theodore Tagari Eugene Tagaris Christos Tsarouhas Anastasios Tsilivitas Vasileios Fotopoulos Alex Chadjipavlidou Georgia Christodoulopoulos Chris Christodoulopoulou Chryssoula

Zaharo Kaiafas Giannitsohori Kakovatos Xerohori Kakovatos Giannitsohori Giannitsohori Zaharo Zaharo Zaharo Tholo Neohori Neohori Zaharo K. Xerohori Shinoi Giannitsohori Zaharo Giannitsohori Zaharo Arene Zaharo Neohori Zaharo Prasidaki Kakovatos Kalidona Tholo Zaharo Kakovatos Giannitsohori Zaharo Zaharo Zaharo Kakovatos

2625034457 2625032307 2625061419 2625032131 2625071239 2625032147 2625061582 2625061929

2625031512 2625061159 2625061294 2625061294 2625033035 2625061622 2625032728 2625031782 2625033497 2625034384 2625061385 2625031225 61007 2625033977

2625041634 2625034064 6946991285 2625031220 2625034105 2625034064

325

Christopoulos Chris Christopoulos Kalliopi Chronopoulos Agesilaos

Kalidona Kakovatos Kaiafas

2625034834 2625031144 2625031962.

KRESTENA AREA C. Mihalopoulos-D. Gardouni and co ltd Kato Samiko Avdala Theodora Makrisia Avdala Thomas Makrisia Aggelopoulos Nik-Aggelopoulou Nouvari Krestena Athanasopoulos Emmanouil Gryllos Athanasopoulou Vasiliki Gryllos Andonakopoulos George Kallikomo Asemakopoulos Demetrios Makrisia Vlahopoulos Soteres Krestena Galanopoulos George Ploutohori Galanopoulou Stratege Krestena Giannopoulos Nicholas Skillounda Gotsis Dionysios Makrisia Daglaris Nektarios Makrisia Daoulari Catherine Makrisia Demetrouli Maria Gryllos Demetroulopoulos Con. Krestena Demopoulos George Gryllos Demopoulos Panagiotis Kallikomo Doufas Theodore Krestena Zaharopoulou Evangelia Platiana Zarlendes Chris Krestena Zogogianni Athanasia Vrina Kaproulia Alexandra Anemohori Karyotis Efthymios Kato Samiko Katsamboulas Fotios Diasella Kotsopoulou Dionysia Makrisia Kouskouri Helen Krestena Kolettis Con. Krestena Kostopoulos Alexander Krestena

326

26250 2625024428 2625022568 2625024994 2625051711 2625051201 2625022982 2625051348 2625051409 6974666425 6977436377 2625023978 6947725043 2625023809

2625051005 2625022661 2625024833 2626031063 2624032333 2625022816 2625023297 6939310678 2625051091 2625022276 2625022211 2625023440

Lazouri Athanasia Lambropoulou Athanasia Lymberopoulos Petros Lymberopoulou Demeter Lyri Georgia Manda Maria Bahourou Sophia Niarhos Demetrios Nikolopoulos Christos Pagoni Evaggelia Papaspyrou Kalomoira Prinos Elias Prinos Ioannis Prinos Charalambos Prinou Zoe Speliopoulou Aggeliki Stathopoulou Anastasia Stathopoulou Zoe Triandopoulos Demetrios Trihakis Con. Yselou Fotini Filipopoulou Maria Fourtouni Demetroula Christopoulos Georgios Psarioti Stavroula

Skillounda Rahes Anemohori Kallikomo Tripiti Krestena Platiana Kato Samiko Krestena Kato Samiko Gryllos Krestena Rahes Krestena Anemohori Krestena Ano Samiko Krestnea Makrisia Kallikomo Diasella Kallikomo Makrisia Krestena Anemohori

2625051067 2625023270 2625023488 2625023639 2626031258 2625025025 2626031354 2625071277 2623024332 2625071220 2625051207 2625024191 2625022962 2625024301 2625022910 2625024416 2625022225 2625023592 2625051572 2625026250 2625023555 2625022416

VOUPRASIO AREA Cela Valentina Aletras Andrew Valogiannis Panagiotis Venetaki Alexandra Venetiadi Helen Veskoukis Gerasimos Voulgaris Con. Georgopoulou Alexandra

Varda Varda Manolada Nea Manolada Nea Manolada Kourtesi Varda Varda

26230

2623071775 2623071566 2623091086

327

D. Dasios-E. Arvanitakis Daglis George Dionysopoulos George Zavou Sophia Iordanidi Foteini Karakitsos Panagiotis Karvouniari Anthoula Karvouniaris Nicholas Katsaniotis Athanasios Lysandropoulos Andrew Meladopoulos Demetrios Delmekouras Eugene Delmekouras Petros Panagiotakopoulos Vasileios Papadopoulou Zoe Papanikolaou Arhondo Samaris Nicholas Palaia Sardeli Demeter Skourlis Demetrios Sofianopoulos Nicholas Spoudas Andreas Socrates and Nik Tsachalos Soteropoulos Nicholas Tzitzoglaki Paraskevi Tsatsou Christine

Nea Manolada Psari Daphne Kapeleto Nea Manolada Varda Kapeleto Varda Kourtesi Varda Nea Manolada Varda Varda Varda Kapeleto Kourtesi Manolada Manolada Nesi Varda Varda Kapeleto Kourtesi Manolada Manolada

2623073030 2623071747, 2623073608 2623071858 2623072017 2623072169 2623072541 2623091211 2623071379 2623073644 2623073200 2623072548 2623072425 2623071325 2623072428 2623072194 2623073130 2623071229 2623091295 2623072105.

ANDRITSAINA AREA Athanasopoulou Con. Andonopoulos Miltiades Apostolopoulou Roza Tsiouta bros Georgakopoulos Antonios Grammatikou Roumbini Kaplani Vasiliki Kastis Elias

328

Amygdalies N. Figalos Petralona Andritsaina Petralona N. Figalos Sekoula

2626031407 2626041201 2625041520 2625041469 2626022100 2625041650 2625041262 6942423010

Katsieris Petros Kiousis Panagiotis Kremizis Demetrios Lambropoulos Panagiotis Maniatis Ioannis Baskozos Ioannis Bahouros Demos Bahouros Soteres Nasis Con. Nikolakopoulos Antonis Nikolakopoulos Theodore Reppa Akrivi Sieloulis George Strigga Alexandra Tzavella Georgia Tsagdis Theodore Tsagdis Tryfon Fournaris Nicholas Christopoulos Nicholas

Amygdalies Fanari Amygdalies Kallithea N. Figalos Andritsaina Andritsaina Andritsaina Andritsaina Kallithea N. Figalos Fanari- Olympia Andritsaina Dragogi Amygdalies Kallithea Kallithea Kallithea Kallithea

2626041020 22692 2626041242 2626031101 2625041874 2626022455 2626022020 2626022166 2626022170 31164 2626022028 2626022004

2626031101 2626031185 2626031164

ROOMS TO LET Alevizos Diane Edrington Agrios George Agrios George Ahats Paraskevi Grammatelis Nicholas International limited company Zapandis Con. Zounis Elias Ioannis Galanopoulos and co ltd Karambali Athanasia Kasta Kolosaka Antonia Kolosaka Chryssoula Kostarias Demetrios Lolou Maria

Katakolo

2621041651

Skafidia Kasta Skafidia Pyrgos Miraka Anc. Olympia Lala Korakohori Katakolo Katakolo Anc. Olympia Anc. Olympia

2621054545 2621041488 2621054725 2621026800 2624022498 2624022644 2624041422 2621041170 2621041221 2624030360 2624022580

329

Balla Demeter Papadiamandopoulos Charalambos Spinos Con. Stavropoulos Andreas Tsoukalas Gerasimos Tsoukalas Ioannis Scheu Walter Alexopoulou Georgia Vrioni Sophia Vrionis Nicholaos Giannakopoulou Styliani Drakopoulou Androniki Thanasoulas Ioannis Theodorakopoulos Panagiotis Theodorakopoulos George Kotrokoi Georgia Kotrokois Andreas Kotrokois Panagiotis Kypriotis Christos Melissopoulou Areti Melesi Nikoltisa Bratis George Bratis Spyros Douga Soteria Walid Constandina Panagoulis Stavros Papademetriou Georgia Papadopoylos Con. Papahryssanthou Anthony Patrinos Aggelos Patrinos Panagiotis Seidopoulos Hermes-Nicholas Spendzaris Eustathios Demetriou Eftychia Katsenos Gerasimos Kouris Andreas

330

Skafidia 2621054869 Korakohori Alkyona-Katakolo 2621041247 Kalakeika-Skafidias 2621054352 Katakolo 2621041079 Kalakolo 2 2621041079 Douneika 262209231 Vrana-Vartholomio 2623042206 Vartholomio 2623041317 Vartholomio 2623041317 Vartholomio 2623042189 Arkoudi 6945384341 Vrana-Vartholomiou Roupaki 2621024282 Glyfa-Lygia 2623096211 Arkoudi 2623096200 Vartholomio 2623041413 Arkoudi Lygias 2623041480 Arkoudi 2623096165 Arkoudi 2623096438, 41267 Loutra-Kilini 2623041072 Arkoudi-lygias 2623096480 Vartholomio 2623042047 Arkoudi-Vartholomio Vrana-Vartholomio Arkoudi 2623041246 Vartholomio 2623041650 Glyfa 2623096293, 96122 Arkoudi-Lygia 2623096072 Vartholomio Vartholomio Arkoudi 2623096167 Arkoudi 2623096422 Kastro 2623054562 Kastro 2623027050 2623095002-001 Kastro

Kouris Nicholas Lambrinos Dionysios Lepida Catherine Lefkaditi Dionysia Dembelis Nicholas Siskos Anastasios Skoufoula Paraskevi Skoufoulas Gregory Fragopanagos George Fragopanagos Diamandis Fragopanagos Con. Charalambopoulou Panagiota Balkamou Maria Papademetriou Aggeliki Alexandropoulos Panos Alexandropoulou Fotini Artoumas G. Spyridon Artoumas C. Spyridon Vasilopoulou Eleni Goskou Elpida Theodoropoulou Aggeliki Kalifeidas Nicholaos Keller Eggon Koutsogiannakis Evangelos Koutsogiannakis Panagiotis Krespi Fotini Konstandopoulos Theodore Konstandopoulos Con. Konstandopoulou Kalliopi Makrogambraki Anastasia Mihos Zois Mihou Anastasia Mihou Ioanna Bilionis Christos Panagopoulos Nicholas

Kastro 262302623095465 Kastro 6945200432 Kastro 2623095224, 95380 Kastro 2623095318 Vartholomio 2623041565 Kastro 2623096150 Kastro 2623095230 Kastro Andravida 2623054367 Andravida 2623054367 Tragani-K. Panaghia Pyrgos 2623094940 Kastro 2623095158 Andritsaina路 Andritsaina 2610332347 2626022424 Xirohori 2625032254 Xirohori 2625033836 Zaharo Zaharo 2625031659 Neohori 2625061085 Zaharo 2625031095 Kakovatos Kakovatos 2625031167 Zaharo 2625031038 Kakovato 2625034026 Zaharo Shinoi-Zaharo 2625033897 Zaharo Zaharo2625032537 Zaharo 2625032537 Kakovato Xirohori 2625032261 Xirohori 2625032261 Xirohori 2625032261 Shinoi-Olympia2625034400 Nesi-Zaharo 262506944896467

331

Plevria Aristea Sideris Asemakis Sideris Demetrios Sideris Con. Speliopoulos Nicholas Tsiganou Ioanna Psomas Con. Wilper Wolfang Ioannis Giahou Barbara Kiamos Georgios

Taxiarhes Xirohori Xirohori Neohori-Zaharo Kakovatos Kakovatos Kakovatos Kato Samiko Kato Samiko Makrisia

2625061700 2625032634 2625032634 2625033008 2625033717 2625032157 2625071439 2625071212 2625023065.

TOURIST AGENCIES

A.Georgakopoulos and co.

Ahtipis Panagiotis and co.

Ahtipis Stavros Vollaris Michalis Galanopoulos Andreas Demetropoulos Andreas Eliakes aktes Eliaki national transportation company ltd Ioannis Vollaris and co Kandounis Con. Kapnisis Apostolis Katsibourdas Con. Kritselis A-Seferlis A and co Lambaounas Panagiotis Mamousis Ioannis Mimis A. Andonopoulos Pyrgos ltd Aghios Speliopoulos Ioannis P Speliopoulos Con. Stavropoulos Efstathios Stougiou-Dagla Panagiota

332

Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Lalas Lala Katakolo

2621025321 2621026302 2621026940 2624041288

2621025445 Pyrgos Katakolo Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Floka Katakolo Elias yrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos Pyrgos

2621022564 2621024920 2621030790 2621030022 2621022653

2621033548 2621033548 2621028019 2621022231

Tsagdis Georgios Anyfandi-Zafeiropoulos Maria Vlahopoulos Chris Vlahoxristopoulos Ilias Galanopoulou Alexandra Zafiropoulos Nikolaos National transportation company Iordanides Marios Hrysanthakopoulos Con. George P. Kapatsoulias Kounani-Tsaousaki Vasiliki Strigas Demetrios Tsaousakis Antonios Tsekoura Con. B. Panagoulia and co Kollias Nik Kilini shipping agencies Mihalakopoulos Ioannis

Pyrgos Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Amaliada Andravida Vartholomio Gastouni Gastouni Vartholomio Zaharo Kilini Kastro Andritsaina

2621034950 26220 23880 697272351 2622021861 2622023280 2622022963 2622029779 2623054282 2623042635 2623032368 2623035565 2623041893 26230 92115 2623092351 2626022821

333

BIBLIOGRAPHY acknowledgements For this edition information, facts and photographs from various books and magazines were used . Our sources were the following : PATRIS newspaper «Olympia» guide (Spyros Th. Phtoneinos) «Guide to the monasteries of the Olympia sub prefecture»

(Bekis Alexopoulou) «Greek Countryside», magazine of the association of climbers and friends of nature (photos taken by K. Ahilleopoulos, G. Gletsos, D. Pagoulatou) «Monasteries, hermitages and pilgrimages of Elia» (S.E. Paraskevopoulos) Articles and essays by Ioannis Vorvilas «Elia- tourist guide» (published by the prefecture and Anaptixiaki Elias) «My best weekends» (Photini Pipili, Livanis publications) «Elis: the city of the Olympic games» (published by the Ministry of Culture) «Amaliada» A study of the town’s history written by mayor K. Lourbas (published by the municipality and the local Traders’ Association) «Lepreon: A handbook of the history and archaeology of the city»

by P.G. Pyriovolis «Greece : cradle of light and civilization « V.G. Karavoulias «MUNICIPALITY OF SKILLOUNDA: a long history of civilization» «Sepeto monastery» (D. K. Karagiannis) «Articles by G. Seferlis and Olympia Alternative Action «Vartholomio» (A. Bratis) Essay by V. Mavraeidopoulou about the history of Olena «The passage of history and nature» (published by the municipality of Iardanos) «Nature and civilization» an ecological guide of the coastal area of the bay of Kyparissia «Monastery of Fragopedema» «The Foloi forest» (environmental group of Lalas high school) Arkadia site

NOTES

NOTES