Discover the mainland of Greece: Macedonia and Thessaly

Themis Nasopoulou Ecoguide-Journalist-MSc Biological Diversity

E-mail: [email protected] Website:www.oikoxenagos.gr

Mob.tel.: 0030-6937122299

Discover the mainland of Greece:

Macedonia and Thessaly

By Themis Nasopoulou

Ecoguide-Journalist

MSc Biological Diversity

E-mail: [email protected]

Website:www.oikoxenagos.gr

Mob.tel.: 0030-6937122299

Picturesque scenery, wild nature, unpaved routes and graphic villages set the scene as

one approaches the Macedonia region. A typical greek coastline along with lakes,

mountains, rivers, and forests hosting a versatile flora and fauna altogether constitute

the well – preserved ecosystem of Macedonia.

“From the entire world, the best land is the thessalic land...”. Many things may have

changed from the time when the Oracle of Delphi was giving out this divination,

however, the land of Centaurs and home of Asklepius still fascinates visitors with its

extraordinary beauty.

mailto:[email protected]



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Ramsar Wetland of Lake Kerkini

Lake Kerkini is now one of, if not the, premier birding site in Greece, and, as it is

situated along the migratory flyway for migratory birds en route to the Aegean Sea,

the Balkan region, the Black Sea, the Hungarian steppes and beyond it experiences an

interesting migration.

Lake Kerkini is a miracle of nature which came about by man's technical intervention

on the natural characteristics of Strymon river. The water extent, which varies from

time to time, works out to be useful in two ways: as a technical work of great

agricultural utility and as a hydrobiosphere for thousands of water fowls.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aegean_Sea

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Sea

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steppes



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This wonderful biosphere is recouped by the International Convention of Ramsar and

presents numerous admirable elements. Thousands of birds, both rare and protected,

riverside forests, water-lilies in a large area, fish variety and fantastic panoramic view

from the mountains of Belles and Krousia give it a characteristic tone.

Actually the lake hosts 227 kinds of birds, especially non-migrants. 76 of them are

recorded in the National Red Catalogue, while at least 31 of them are protected by

EEC's Directive concerning wild life.

What makes an exceptional presence is the buffalo's herd in the area, plus the one of

the jackel in the area of Kerkini lake. In the surrounding area of Kerkini lake there are

at least 10 amphibian species (frogs, salamanders, tritons), five snail species, 19 reptile

species (lizards, snakes, turtles) and a great variety of insects which play an important

part in the food chain and contribute towards the biological resources of the lake.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramsar_Convention

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belasica

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Krousia&action=edit&redlink=1

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=National_Red_Catalogue&action=edit&redlink=1



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Wetland of Axios River Delta

In the area where the Axios leaks it is formed a delta area of 22,000 acres. In the wider

region rivers Loudias, Aliakmonas and Gallikos detrude as well, along with salt Kitros

they create a large wetland area of great importance, which is protected by the Ramsar

conditions and Berne. More specifically, the “Delta” system runs on the west coast of

Thermaikos Gulf, between prefectures of Thessaloniki, Pieria and Imathia and forms

a mosaic from brackish lagoons, saline soils, extensive mudflat, swamps saltwater and

freshwater, sand dunes, rich vegetation and extensive crops. The flora of the delta

contains more than 500 species and subspecies of plants, including some rare, creating

a variety of colors during the year.



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Litochoro – Mount Olympus- Enipeas Gorge

Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, is the symbol of the Greek spirit, centre of

the Olympian religion and ancient Greek mythology, a leading global Nature

Monument.

Litochoro is the big traditional settlement of northeast Olympus. It offers a harmonius

combination of mountain and sea, historic tradition and traditional architecture with

natural beauty. Litochoro next to the gorge of Enipeas river, is the second largest

municipality of Pieria. Is the starting point for the main climbing routes to Mount

Olympus and the conquest of this mythical mountain.

The route from Prionia to Litochoro, through Enipeas gorge, is the best route if you

want to access the lower zone of Mount Olympus and one of the best walks on

Olympus. Thrugh the river bed of Enipeas, which is filled with numerous boulders, the

water runs cold throughout all seasons. The path meets the river bed at a number of

points where rough wooden footbridges have been placed. During the walk towards

Litochoro the visitor is quite often encountered with an amazing view towards

Litochoro and Thermaikos bay.

The imposing rocky environment, the rich vegetation of low zone of Olympus, the rare

flora, and the colour diversity of the national park, the impressive crests and the

alternation of the alpine landscape, and, more importantly, the feeling that you walk

on the mythical mountain of the ancient gods and legends give rise to strong feelings

and make the walking route to mount Olympus unique.



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Traditional Village of Palaios Panteleimonas

At the old village of Palaios

Panteleimonas, within an

impressive vegetation, there are

many houses of old architecture

and a remarkable church still

surviving.

It is worth visiting the scabbed square surrounded by taverns, serving traditional local

dishes. Cobble streets lead to the centre of the settlement and cars are in parking areas

outside the picturesque village.



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Rock of Meteora

In central Greece and particularly in the North Western part of Thessaly, between

North East of Hasia and West of Pindos, where the plain of Thessaly ends, gigantic

rocks raise, that create a spectacle which might be unique worldwide.

Visiting the villages of Thessaly stimulates all senses, from preserved settlements to

the outfallis of Pinios river, which come across the stunning valley of Tembi and host

beautiful flamingoes. The landmark of Trikala district is the colossal rock of Metora, a

natural monument, imposingly standing there for millions of years. It is there, where

the earth virtually touches the sky and the view from the hospitable monasteries

speaks directly to visitors’ hearts.

U.N.E.S.C.O has characterized the Holy Meteora as a "monument of Humanity that

has to be maintained". The monasteries of the Meteora are included in the

Monuments of world cultural Heritage as they are a unique harmonious matching of

Byzantine architecture and natural beauty. The buildings of the monasteries seem like

a continuance and a natural ending of the rocks. Meteora, are a priceless artistic and

heirloom treasure. The presence of many monasteries in such a small place, as well as

the Orthodox spiritual life and exercise have provoked the admiration and the interest

of people all over the world.



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Ramsar Wetland of Lakes Koronia and Volvi

Lake Koronia Lake Volvi

The wetland of the lakes of Koronia and Volvi in Northern Greece represent a unique

landscape of rare natural beauty with an extraordinary array of wetlands and

ecosystems. The area’s tremendous ecological importance has been recognized

worldwide: both lakes are protected by the international Ramsar Convention, and have

been designated as Special Areas of Conservation for wild fauna and flora by the EU.



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Unparalleled biodiversity in the region

The region boasts astounding biodiversity of both species and habitats: There are 800

different plant species in different habitats surrounding the wetland. These include 340

different aquatic plant species, 13 of which are considered rare, as well as 248 bird

species, 14 reptile species, 34 kinds of mammals, five amphibian species and 22

species of fish. Some species are indigenous to the region, and many are protected by

international conventions. Sadly, some species such as the otter Lutra lutra seem to

have become extinct.

The variety of seasonal swamps, streams, forests, aquatic thickets, reeds and

freshwater marshlands have created a mosaic of incomparable beauty and amazing

variety that every nature lover would fall in love with.

This complex variety of ecosystems with the beauty of flamingos, pelicans, grebes,

herons and a remarkable diversity of animals, plants and birds is captivating, yet sadly

under-appreciated and endangered.



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The lakes are a hot spot for migrating birds, as well as an ideal wintering station and

breeding haven for many birds and eagles overall. From the white stork and long-

legged buzzard to the rare Egyptian vulture and Dalmatian pelican, the area is prized

by serious birdwatchers and environmentalists.

Attractions:

Lake riverine forest at Apollonia:

It is located to the Southern shore of Lake

Volvi and covers an area of about 35 ha.

That forest is the only area in Greece where

one can admire a rare example of

cohabitation, the White stork (Ciconia

ciconia) and the Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)

which build their nests together.

Extensive logging has destroyed much of the

original forest, and today only a few

remnants remain: precious remnants of

enormous old riverine forests.

Amongst the trees which are predominant

here, are the white poplar (Populus alba )

and Plane trees (Platanus orientalis).

The western part of the forest supports an important area of Alder (Alnus glutinosa)

and White poplar (Populus alba) that form the rare Alnopopuletum community.



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Riverine forest of Redina

In the valley of river Rihios to the east

of Volvi, there is the thick riverine

forest of Redina, with planes, willows,

oleanders, chaste trees and other plants

able to grow in the water-saturated soil.

Running waters, plants and animals, all

together with the rocky slopes and the

small ravines, form an outstanding

habitat and a site of exceptional beauty.

The philosopher Aristotle, one of the greatest thinkers of all times, built his

philosophical school in that green valley of the Rihios River.

Protected Monuments of Nature:

The two Plane trees at Scholari

Close to the Village of Scholari between

the two lakes Koronia and Volvi, the

visitor will certainly be impressed by the

view of two huge perennial plane trees,

which support large colonies of grey

heron.

The Plane Tree of Apollonia

Near to the village Apollonia there is a centuries-old Plane tree which according to

tradition Apostle Paul taught just under the foliage of this huge tree. Its historical

importance is great and is well know as "St Paul Step".

http://www.ornithologiki.gr/en/sppe/enpnat.htm#mnh



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Nymphopetra’s rock formations

Near to the village of Nymphopetra, there is a remarkable natural formation of

rocks made from silicates; these silicates were produced by jets of super heated

water thermally altering the surrounding rock strata. The springs have long since

disappeared from the area, but the silicates still remain. As the popular tradition has

it, this chain of rocks was a bridal procession which was petrified as a punishment.

Hot springs and thermal baths

The country, especially near Lagkadas and Apollonia, is noted for its hot springs. The

place was resorted to for medical treatment by bathing since the time of Romans.

Baths still operate in the city of Lagkadas and Nea Apollonia village.

Customs:

On the day of Aghios Konstantinos and Heleni, (21st of May) the visitor will be

astonished at the sight of the inhabitants of Lagkadas walking on red –hot charcoal!

This tradition has its roots in ancient rites honouring the god Dionyssos.

Discover the mainland of Greece: Macedonia and Thessaly

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