Welcome to Trikala!
The best way to know the region of Thessaly, Trikala and famous rocks of Meteora, at a first glance,is to go on the following website where you can find general information: http://www.meteorabooking.gr/trikala/tourism/shared/index.jsp?context=1501
Trikala city
The region of Trikala has been populated since the prehistoric years and the first evidence of life in the cavern of Theopetra dates since 49.000 B.C. Also, Neolithic settlements have been discovered since 6.000 B.C in Megalo Kefalovryso and other localitities.
The city of Trikala is built on the ancient city Trikka or Trikki, which was founded around the 3rd Millennium B.C. and was named by the nymph Trikki, daughter of Penaeus or by the Asopos River.
The city was an important centre of antiquity, since Asklipios lived here and acted, who today constitutes the emblem of the municipality of Trikala and was also the king of the city.
Built in the Thessalian plain, the city of Trikala is a unique destination for those who want to enjoy an unusual natural beauty. Asklipios, the eminent doctor of antiquity, was born here and practiced medicine. The pictures que river Lithaios that is also tributary of Penaeus, according to the mythology was the son of Oblivion. It flows through Trikala, giving an enchanting atmospere. The bridges that link the two banks of the river are many, but the most beautiful is the central bridge, that was manufactured in 1886 in France.
A video about Trikala city
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Near-by destinations
Elati & Pertouli region
Photo: Pertouli region
The fir-clad Pindos mountain range with the traditional villages is there for you to discover Elati and Pertouli (with its ski resort) and Pyli have developed to become famous destinations with winter holiday makers.
Meteora
photo: the famous rocks of "Meteora"
Meteora The geological phenomenon of Meteora constitutes a world attraction and a unique monument of nature.
In central Greece and particularly in the north-western department of Thessaly, gigantic rocks create a unique spectacle in the world.
The phenomenon of the rocks is not reported neither in Mythology nor by some Greek or foreigner historian. For thousands of years the historians and geologists are occupied with the formulation of these rocks, developing various theories.
The prevailing theory is from the German geologist Filipson, who came to Greece towards the end of the 19th century. According to his theory one the estuaries of a big river were in this region and for millions of years it was covered by a narrow and deep marine department. The waters of the river brought various materials and stones that were transported by the waters from more northern departments of the original central Europe. From the accumulation of these materials deltaic cones were formulated.
25-30 million years ago, after the geological changes that took place during the centuries, the central department of current Greece rised and the region of Thessaly sank, which formed a lake. Afterwards the opening of the Tempi was created, as a result the waters poured in the current Aegean Sea and the Thessalian plain emerged.
During the tertiary period of the Alpine folds, the compact volumes of the rocks detached from the mountain range of Pindos and over the centuries the Valley of the river Penaeus was created. With the continuous erosion due to the wind and rain, as well as by other geological changes, these rocks in the passage of million years took their current form.
Plastira Lake (Karditsa region)
Lake Plastiras, also known as "Little Switzerland", is surrounded by an idyllic landscape of incomparable natural beauty that captivates the mind at first sight. Dreamlike in all aspects, it is one of the largest artificial lakes in Greece created in a location where in antiquity we could find the confluence of the rivers Tavropos and Achelous.It is a natural wonder that owes its existence to the inspired vision of General Nikolaos Plastiras (rightfully named after him) to create an impressive dam that would reinvigorate the entire region. Lake Plastira located in the wider area of Agrafa, lives every season at its fullest, promising to offer you the holiday you dreamed of.
The grandeur of the lake is crowned with the surrounding alpine peaks; snowcapped or green, with impetuous streams that flirt with lacy coves, narrow inlets of water between cliffs that create fjord-likescenes and a single luscious green islet in the middle create a mind-blowing landscape which is mirrored in the emerald waters of the lake. In the vicinity you can find a handful of villages either situated along the lakeshore or on the mountainous slopes with idyllic view of the lake comprising a scenery of cinematographic magnitude!
Sporades islands
Explore the Sporades islands, in the northwest Aegean! Dense vegetation; rocky landscapes, and pure blue seas: a uniquely alternative destination. Go island-hopping in a paradise island complex!
Trace Skiathos walking routes, and discover its hidden beauties. With your mind’s eye follow the footsteps of great writers, such as Alexander Papadiamantis, as they walked through dense forests and olive groves! The nature enthusiasts should follow a lovely route through the famous Koukounariés forest and around Lake Strofilia. (Length 4.2 km). Alternatively, take a leisurely, easy walk round Kanapitsa Peninsula (4,9km)!
Seeking to experience some religious awe? Take a rather long-distance walk (7km) to Skiathos historical churches (Evagelistrias Monastery & the Churches of St. Harálambos, St. Apóstolos and St. Dimitrios).
Do you know that the island of Alonissos is home to the Mediterranean Monk Seal (: monachus monachus), one of the biggest seal species? Go to the National Marine Park of Alonissos and support the rescue of newborn pups!
Looking for a peaceful island to enjoy your family holidays? Skopelos is your destination! Find yourself in a green surrounding with rich pine forests, crystal blue seas and sandy beaches! Taste the famous cheese-pie of Skópelos, and have a shot of oúzo in tavérnas by the sea!
Are you a movie fan? Trace the paths of the exciting film “Mamma Mia”! Yes, the amazing chapel on the rocks (where the wedding ceremony took place) really exists! It’s “Saint Ioannis Chapel” in Skópelos!
In the island of Skyros ride a cute pony in the heart of a dense pine-tree forest, or participate in the famous carnival celebrations. The island is also home to the “Skyros Institute of Holistic Studies”, which offers alternative therapy programmes (yoga or even windsurfing)!
Pelion region
The Pelion Peninsula is situated geographically in the Eastern Central of Greece with a altitude by the 1550 meter. Pelion is known as the garden of Greece. On the west side picturesque villages are set between shimmering olive groves whereas in east Pelion dense forests alternate with lush and carefully created terraced fruit orchards. The many waterways find their ways through waterfalls and gorges to meet the Sea in romantic little bays with sandy beaches. This idyllic landscape has been famous for centuries for its sweet herbs and is the ancient home of the mythical centaurs of old Greece. Pelion”s landscapes are ideal for visitors who want to explore its natural beauty on foot. There are many old stone paths and interesting trails which connect the mountain villages with the tiny settlements at the seaside. Many of these spots invite to dwell and to spend time to take in the views and smells and luscious atmosphere.
