GREVENA

General Information

The prefecture of Grevena borders to the north with the prefecture of Kastoria, to the northeast with the prefecture of Kozani, to the southeast with the prefecture of Larissa, and to the west with the prefecture of Ioannina. Imposing mountains, endless forests, and abundant waters characterize this charming region, situated on the backbone of the Greek mainland. It is ideal for explorations across its vast mountainous lands, for peaceful vacations within a setting comprised of natural beauties which lets the eye, unconcerned, unburdened by anxiety or caution, to  wander carelessly on the marvelous sights, all easily accessible due to an adequate road network. Fishing in the rivers, or engaging in exciting as well as challenging winter sports such as mountaineering and skiing, hold the promise of pleasant experiences. The Pindos mountain range is a notable attraction, offering breathtaking landscapes bursting with life, a vast wealth of flora and fauna. At a distant of 7 km from the village of Smili, in the location known as Vassilitsa, through a marvelous forest of fir and beech trees, there are two refuges for the mountain climbers who dare to venture into the wilderness, but also for those who revel in the beauty of the highlands. Its population is no more than 37947 residents, while its extent covers 2291 sq.km.    

History - Culture

Archaeological findings trace the beginning of civilized presence in the region in the Prehistoric Era. The existing evidence does not suggest the presence of a dense population during that period, or, in fact, during any other, as the density of the population in this land remains low to this day. In general, the history of the prefecture is closely connected to the history of an ancient city established by Aenos. However, in the 3rd century BC the region came under Macedonian rule, and since then it followed the same course through history with the Kingdom of Macedonia, all the way to the time of the Roman conquest, and well beyond. During Roman occupation, the construction of Via Egnatia played a significant part, as it contributed significantly to the prosperity of the whole of Macedonia.  Though the region suffered many attacks and barbarian raids during the years of Byzantine rule, Grevena gradually developed into a military and commercial centre.  Throughout Turkish occupation and during the years of Macedonian War (1904-1908) against the Bulgarians, the region was a centre of heated resistance. Grevena was finally liberated in October 1912, and was incorporated back into the Greek nation.

Sights

There is hardly an acre of land in this lovely prefecture that cannot be considered as a sight, a source of inspiration for a dreamy poet or a romantic painter. The vast woodlands spread across the mountainous landscapes, frequently crossed by waters running in streams, rivulets and rivers, fascinate all visitors, and especially nature lovers, who come from all over the world to experience the amazing natural beauty of this region. The capital city of Grevena itself is a beautiful town built on the banks of the river Gravenites, a tributary of the river Aliakmonas, surrounded by evergreen landscapes. The Cathedral of Grevena is worth visiting, while there is also a beautiful open air Theatre built according to the ancient Greek standards with excellent acoustics. All the summer cultural events are held here. The village of Avdella is built on verdant slopes and it is the birthplace of the Maniaki Brothers, the first film makers in the Balkans. In Deskati, there is an interesting cave situated in the area of Aghia Paraskevi. Close to the beautiful village of Zakas, there is a group of caves on Mount Orliakas, while the village Spileo (Cave) is built on a mass of solid rock. In Kipoureio, one can see the beautiful Spanos Bridge built over Venetiko River in 1864. The monastery of Panagia Gorgiani is worth visiting. Other significant old churches can be seen in Kranea, Perivoli and Smixi, while many more are scattered across the region, which is also abound in impressive monasteries. In fact, in Paliouria, there is the Byzantine Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria bearing a wood-carved icon stand, while it also houses a small ?albeit rich in old handwritten books and documents- library. In the same area and close to Aliakmonas River, one can see the Monastery of Osios Nikanoras, established in 1534, with icons astoundingly resembling those found in the Monastery of Varlaam in Meteora (in Thessaly); they must be creations of the same painter, the noted Castellanos. In Polyneri, there are ruins of an ancient settlement and its cemetery, while the waterfall close to the village should be visited, if only for a romantic stroll or a pick-nick. Samarina is a beautiful village (there is a popular folk song about it) with lush vegetation, running waters and natural beauties that attract many visitors. Apart from all these, the prefecture is noted for its traditional stone built bridges, most of them built in the years of Turkish occupation by local craftsmen. There are more than 15 remarkable bridges, which have contributed to the development of trade and the cultural prosperity of the region, and they are monuments of exquisite inspiration and workmanship. Finally, there is the National Park of Valia Calda, situated on Mount Lyggo, which is worth a lengthy visit on its own. It is strongly suggested for lovers of nature, as within this place of exquisite natural beauty and wildlife, some of last surviving brown bears in Europe have sought ?and, thankfully, have found- refuge. This place is truly an earthly paradise, where every gaze is a gift not only to one?s eyes, but to his soul as well. 

Entertainment-Sports-Shopping

A region with but recent experience in attracting visitors, its tourist infrastructure is still under development. Fortunately, this has been proceeding at a quick and effective pace, resulting to the existence of accommodation and entertainment facilities that are more than adequate, supplemented by the warm and caring hospitality of the locals. There are small inns and rooms-to-let in the capital of Grevena and in the town of Deskati, which is also a commercial centre. The shopping places are well supplied and visitors should not depart without the local textiles (traditional hand-made carpets, rugs and longhaired rugs) and dairy products in their luggage. Apart from the taverns, coffee shops and bars, local festivals are an ideal entertainment alternative, as they are particularly colorful and welcoming, as well as a source of cultural edification. They are held throughout the year yet, ?Loggatsaria?, held for the Carnival, is noted for its merry spirit and its unique atmosphere. Regarding local cuisine, visitors should definitely taste the specially prepared local dishes of roasted meat. As for sports, in Grevena there are basketball and volleyball courts and football fields, while winter sports are very popular; there is a fully equipped ski resort on Mount Vassilitsa. The area is also ideal for mountain climbing, while two refuges built on Mount Vassilitsa and another on Mount Kamvounia offer security for difficult times and rough weather.

Access

Buses depart from Athens to Thessaloniki and from there to Grevena.

Connections

Dense bus services link Grevena, Kozani and Trikala-Karditsa-Larissa (Thessaly) on a daily basis.

Museums

A small Ecclesiastical Museum is housed in the Cathedral, in Grevena.

Alternative Tourism

This is the quintessential place for ecotourism. Winter sports, ski, mountain climbing, trekking, rafting, canyoning, river trekking, jeep safari, mountain bike, moto cross, are but a few of the many other options available.

Useful Telephone Numbers:

GREVENA AREA CODE:  24620-

POLICE STATION  : 24620-31111

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORG.: 24620-22799

POST OFFICE: 24620-31200

TAXI STATION: 24620-22580, 24299

HOSPITAL: 24620-34400

PHARMACIES: 24620-23073, 28720, 22412

BUS STATION: 24620-22242