Amongst all of the locations we’ve visited in Greece, we are able to confidently say that Kastoria gave us probably the most fantastic time.
For a lot of its historical past, the town constructed its identification and financial system round a single product: fur. As soon as hailed because the fur capital of Greece, Kastoria was a metropolis of furriers — expert artisans who crafted, repaired, and offered fur clothes. Many consider that the town’s very title is derived from kastoras, the Greek phrase for “beaver”, which was a major supply of fur.
For generations, fur was the lifeblood of Kastoria’s financial system. Stroll round immediately and also you’ll nonetheless spot fur shops and workshops scattered throughout the town — some family-run like Almahats, and others bigger in scale, equivalent to Vitaniolis or Soulis. However whereas the legacy lives on, the once-booming trade has slowed considerably. We had been informed that as of our 2023 go to, solely 16 masters remained who might carry out one of the crucial intricate duties within the commerce: pores and skin matching, a talent that takes years, even many years, to good.
With the world shifting away from fur, many locals have begun shifting to new alternatives, and one promising avenue is tourism.
Set on a surprising lakeside peninsula in Northern Greece, Kastoria could also be a bit out of the best way, nevertheless it’s that actual fact that makes it so particular. Vacationers who go off the crushed path are rewarded with a peaceable, genuine expertise stuffed with pure magnificence, deep-rooted tradition, and historic allure. As phrase spreads, it received’t be lengthy earlier than extra vacationers uncover what this fascinating metropolis has to supply, so now could be the right time to go to. Listed here are simply a few of the finest locations to go to in Kastoria.
Lake Orestiada
As a result of it lies on the very coronary heart of the Kastoria regional unit, Lake Orestiada is commonly referred to easily as Kastoria Lake or the Lake of Kastoria. However its extra poetic title, Orestiada, harks again to Greek mythology, particularly the oriades — mountain nymphs believed to dwell within the highlands. And truthfully, standing by its shores, it’s simple to consider there’s nonetheless a contact of magic lingering within the air.
This lake is nothing in need of enchanting in each season. In autumn, the bushes alongside its banks explode in fiery colours, making it a dream for photographers and leaf-peepers alike. In winter, it freezes over, turning right into a silvery sheet of ice, whereas spring and summer time welcome boats gliding throughout its glassy floor and locals gathering at its edges to soak within the surroundings.
Fed by 9 small rivulets and underground springs, the lake is historic — fashioned over 10 million years in the past — and teeming with life. It’s house to over 200 chicken species, from elegant silver pelicans to mute swans, mallards, herons, and extra, making it a haven for birdwatchers. There’s even a captivating little spot the place you possibly can feed geese, including a contact of caprice to your stroll.
A few of our favourite moments in Kastoria had been the only — strolling alongside the lakeside with a espresso in hand. In a world more and more overrun by mass tourism, Kastoria presents a uncommon type of serenity, and Lake Orestiada embodies that peace in each ripple and breeze.
Dragon’s Cave
One of many must-see lakeside sights in Kastoria is the awe-inspiring Dragon’s Cave, simply one of many metropolis’s most fascinating pure wonders. Its title stems from a neighborhood legend, which tells of a dragon that after made the cave its lair — and fittingly, one of many rock formations inside even resembles the legendary beast!
However the true story right here is geological. Nature has been engaged on this cave for thousands and thousands of years, carving it about 300 meters deep into the limestone hill by the lake. Surprisingly, it wasn’t found till the Nineteen Forties, when the adjoining highway was constructed. Since then, scientists have uncovered a hidden world inside — underground lakes, tunnels, and majestic chambers adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. It seems untouched by people till its trendy discovery, however researchers did discover bones of cave bears, believed to have gone extinct over 10,000 years in the past.
One of the best half? You don’t should be an skilled hiker to discover it. The doorway is correct by the highway, and all the cave has a well-maintained customer’s path, making it accessible and protected for nearly anybody. It’s like stepping right into a fantasy realm proper within the coronary heart of Kastoria.
Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa
If you happen to take a leisurely 10-minute lakeside stroll northeast from the Dragon’s Cave, you’ll end up standing earlier than one among Kastoria’s most traditionally vital websites — the Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa. Kastoria is house to 72 church buildings and chapels, many courting again to the Byzantine period, however this specific gem is among the many oldest and most storied.
Constructed within the eleventh century, the monastery was constructed in the course of the reign of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. It served as a tribute to the Virgin Mary, in gratitude for the victory of Commander George Palaiologos over Norman forces in 1083. Its primary construction is a timber-roofed basilica.
Inside, you’ll be captivated by centuries-old frescoes, together with a haunting depiction of the Apocalypse. Though the inside art work has been well-preserved, the outside frescoes, courting to the thirteenth century, suffered injury in the course of the Ottoman period. Notably, lots of the painted figures had their eyes intentionally scratched out, a heartbreaking reminder of the location’s turbulent previous.
Simply throughout the monastery, you’ll additionally meet an historic companion to this holy web site: a 900-year-old airplane tree. With a circumference of 8.5 meters and standing 67 meters tall, it towers like a silent sentinel, bearing witness to just about a millennium of historical past, devotion, and alter. It’s a peaceable and highly effective cease that fantastically captures the soul of Kastoria.
Byzantine Church buildings
Once we first drove round Kastoria, it wasn’t the lake or the mansions that grabbed our consideration however the small, weathered chapels that appeared to have frozen in time. Our information Haris informed us that they’ve nearly 80 Byzantine church buildings and chapels.
Actually, we initially thought that he meant eighteen, however the metropolis itself would make clear that for us as we wandered deeper into its neighborhoods. The chapels saved showing till our casual depend simply surpassed eighteen. That’s when it hit us: Kastoria’s soul is etched within the partitions of its 80 church buildings, not solely serving as a spiritual but additionally historic and cultural monuments.
Some are grand and open to the general public, whereas others are modest and closed off, nonetheless cherished as non-public locations of worship by households who’ve handed them down via generations. Whether or not elaborately frescoed or humbly naked, all of them inform items of the identical story: a metropolis the place religion, historical past, and identification intertwine seamlessly, standing sturdy via time.
Apart from Panagia Mavriotissa, listed below are different Byzantine church buildings:
- Panagia Koubelidiki or Kastriotissa (tenth century)
- Agios Stefanos (Mid-Ninth century)
- Agioi Anargyroi (tenth century)
- Agios Georgios Omorfokklisias (twelfth century)
- Monastery of Pammegistoi Taxiarches of Tsouka (thirteenth century)
- Church of the Dormition at Zevgostasi (fifteenth century)
One other postcard-perfect cease is the Holy Church of Saint Nicanor, a newly constructed gem close to Esperos Palace Lodge. Our good friend Ces even discovered pleasure selecting flowers in a close-by empty lot — simply a kind of quiet, charming moments that Kastoria surprises you with.
The Hill of Prophet Elias
Throughout Kastoria, there are peaceable corners and hilltop lookouts providing sweeping views of the lake wrapping across the metropolis. However one of the crucial accessible is the Hill of Prophet Elias, named after the miracle-working saint and patron of tailors and fur merchants.
Essentially the most hanging construction right here is the Church of Prophet Elias, a serene spot that overlooks all the metropolis. However the complicated isn’t just for prayer. Close to the church is the Profitis Ilias Lounge Café, a comfy hilltop hideout with panoramic glass partitions and plush couches.
Regardless of the rain throughout our go to, the view was nonetheless breathtaking and the moody climate solely added to the allure. Due to Kristos, the pleasant proprietor, we warmed up with three sorts of sizzling chocolate: traditional, strawberry, and cookies and cream. It’s a gem of a spot and also you shouldn’t miss it should you’re on the town.
Agios Athanasios
Agios Athanasios presents a good increased vantage level, the place you possibly can see the Church of Prophet Elias within the foreground, the shimmering lake within the center, and the peninsula stretching out within the background, making an attractive composition of layers. We had been fortunate to go to in spring, when the hillside bursts into coloration with a blanket of yellow flowers.
You’ll know you’re in the proper place if you spot Gaitanis Meat Home, a go-to spot for carnivores craving burgers and steaks. Proper subsequent to it’s a dramatic stack of boulders, which is an epic photograph spot, however do tread rigorously! Only a brief stroll away, you’ll additionally discover the Mountain Theater (Theatro Vounou), a captivating open-air amphitheater that sometimes hosts performances.
Dispilio
Let’s head again down from the mountains and drive about 20 minutes exterior Kastoria to Dispilio, a quiet village with a very historic previous. Nestled on the banks of Lake Orestiada, it’s house to one of the crucial essential archaeological websites — the oldest recognized lake settlement in Europe, courting all the best way again to 5260 BCE. Which means it existed in the course of the Center Neolithic age, and it was estimated to be house to about 3,000 people.
Found by a bunch of fishermen in 1932 after a drought revealed a few of its remnants, the location has since unearthed hundreds of artifacts, together with bones, ceramics, and the intriguing Dispilio pill, which a wood plaque inscribed with markings. Right this moment, guests can discover a reconstructed lakeside village, full with thatched huts, in an open-air museum that feels each instructional and immersive. We even shared the location with a bunch of schoolkids on a discipline journey! Earlier than you permit, swing by the little store by the exit for a memento.
Nestorio
Farther southwest lies the neighboring village of Nestorio, a spot steeped in delusion and historical past. In line with legend, it was based by Nestor, son of King Agamemnon, who fled right here on the foot of Grammos Mountain together with his brother Orestes. Archaeological finds level to Neolithic origins, and a few even consider {that a} younger Alexander the Nice was as soon as hosted right here, studying the artwork of struggle.
Very like Kastoria, Nestorio is dotted with historic church buildings, however we made our manner as much as the Church of the Holy Spirit, perched on a hill with sweeping views. The climb was value it — not only for the peaceable chapel but additionally for the panoramic surroundings of the village. From right here, you possibly can spot spot a few of its landmarks, together with the four-star Afkos Grammos Boutique Lodge Resort.
This upscale lodge boasts a restaurant that serves scrumptious conventional Greek dishes, a terrace with panoramic views, and well-appointed rooms good for unwinding, particularly when the village will get busy. And when does that occur, you ask? Two phrases: River Celebration.
River Celebration (River Aliakmon)
River Celebration is the most important music competition in all of Greece, and all of it goes down proper right here in Nestorio, alongside the picturesque banks of the Aliakmon River. Yearly in August, this sleepy mountain village comes alive as round 50,000 music lovers collect to bounce, sing, and have fun below the summer time sky.
However the fantastic thing about the river doesn’t fade when the crowds go away. On our go to, we had been fortunate to be joined by Architect Haris Mintzias, whose father constructed the now-iconic stone bridge that stands as an emblem of the occasion. When it wanted to be bolstered years later, Haris took on the duty himself. He even gave us a bit demo on correct stone skipping, although, let’s simply say, it’s tougher than it appears!
Moni Panagias Kleisouras
On the far aspect of Lake Orestiada, deep within the mountains and reached by way of winding roads, lies the Moni Panagias Kleisouras Monastery within the municipality of Kleisoura. Constructed within the 14th century, this historic web site as soon as doubled as a fortress, however it’s best recognized within the Greek Orthodox religion as the house of Saint Sophia.
It’s believed that the Virgin Mary, or the Panagia, appeared to Saint Sophia a number of occasions and finally led her to this very monastery. She lived a humble life right here, even sleeping within the fire of the kitchen, and was recognized for performing miracles that drew pilgrims to the location. After her passing on Might 6, 1974, the monastery grew to become her ultimate resting place, and her relics stay enshrined right here.
We had been extremely fortunate as a result of our go to occurred to fall on Might 6, so we bought to witness the annual glorification ceremony held in her honor.
Paraskevi Dragota Church
Again within the metropolis heart, we stumbled upon one other charming chapel — the Saint Paraskevi Sint Paraskevi Dragota Orthodox Church. Whereas it’s not one of many famed 80 Byzantine church buildings, it nonetheless holds over 120 years of historical past, in-built 1899 and nestled quietly in a residential nook just some blocks from the lake.
It wasn’t on our authentic itinerary, however our host, Sonia, introduced us right here, which is one among her favourite spots within the metropolis. She’d typically move by, admiring it from the surface, captivated by the candle at all times lit by the households who take care of the church. We had been about to depart when the sort caretaker, Sir Giorgos, invited us in and gave us a tour! He shared tales in regards to the church’s previous and even allow us to peek into the sanctuary behind the iconostasis, and identified the authentic columns which are nonetheless standing. The inside, adorned with lovely icons and art work, was completely fascinating.
That is what makes Kastoria so particular. All over the place you flip, there’s a chunk of historical past quietly ready to be found.
Meals Journey
Out of all of the locations we explored within the Balkans, Kastoria gave us a few of the finest meals we’ve ever had. The elements listed below are simply on one other degree — from the prized Florina peppers to the succulent lamb chops, every little thing tasted extremely recent and filled with taste.
If you happen to’re planning to eat your manner via the town, listed below are some conventional dishes you completely should strive:
- Sarmades. These are pickled cabbage leaves filled with minced meat and rice. It’s a staple in lots of households, and no two variations are precisely the identical. Every household or taverna has its personal twist, so it’s value making an attempt greater than as soon as!
- Kastorian Large Beans. These huge legumes are additionally a neighborhood staple you shouldn’t miss, and sure, they are surely big. They’ve a skinny pores and skin, however they should be soaked in a single day to succeed in the proper softness. As soon as prepped, they’re usually baked with herbs, tomatoes, and meat.
- Batzo (or Bajo). It is a brined cheese that’s typically ready saganaki-style. That is one among our absolute favorites. Some eating places high it with a fried egg, whereas others fry it to a crisp. Regardless of the way it’s cooked, its distinct salty taste at all times steals the present.
And people are simply the appetizers! For the primary course, don’t anticipate loads of seafood right here. Kastoria is all in regards to the meats. A platter loaded with grilled goodies is the go-to. Lamb, beef, rooster, pork, and even wild boar. Assume juicy souvlaki, smoky kebabs, savory sausages — all grilled to perfection. It’s an absolute meat feast and a must-try for carnivores!
For dessert, one factor we observed is that candied fruits or fruit confit are fairly common, each in properties and eating places. It’s a conventional manner of preserving fruits like cherries, oranges, and even citron or lime, which was the spotlight of a signature cake we tried in Krystallopigi, close to the Albanian border. It’s a candy deal with that you just undoubtedly shouldn’t miss!
Greatest Resorts in Kastoria
Whereas we had been in Kastoria, we had been ready to take a look at three of its finest resorts. Two of them are historic and conventional, each over 200 years outdated, whereas one is extra trendy and minimalist. We additionally included a number of properties in different villages exterior of the town heart however close to some sights.
- Lodge Orologopoulou Mansion, a 250-year-old mansion transformed right into a lodge with trendy room facilities within the metropolis heart. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Vergoula’s Mansion, a brief stroll from Orologopoulou and one of many oldest resorts in Kastoria. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Esperos Place Luxurious and Spa Lodge, a up to date and stylish property within the metropolis heart. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Afkos Grammos Boutique Lodge Resort, an important choice should you’re heading to Nestório for the long-lasting River Celebration music competition. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Krystal Resort, tucked in a peaceable village of Krystallopigi, good for these planning to cross the Greece–Albania border. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
Seek for extra Kastoria Resorts!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You possibly can GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced charge.
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