Amongst all of the locations we’ve visited in Greece, we are able to confidently say that Kastoria gave us probably the most great time.
For a lot of its historical past, the town constructed its identification and economic 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 imagine that the town’s very title is derived from kastoras, the Greek phrase for “beaver”, which was a main supply of fur.
For generations, fur was the lifeblood of Kastoria’s economic 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, similar to Vitaniolis or Soulis. However whereas the legacy lives on, the once-booming trade has slowed considerably. We have been advised that as of our 2023 go to, solely 16 masters remained who might carry out one of the intricate duties within the commerce: pores and skin matching, a ability that takes years, even many years, to excellent.
With the world transferring 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, but it surely’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 attraction. As phrase spreads, it gained’t be lengthy earlier than extra vacationers uncover what this charming metropolis has to supply, so now could be the proper time to go to. Listed here are simply a few of the greatest 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 imagine 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 timber 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 historical — shaped over 10 million years in the past — and teeming with life. It’s dwelling to over 200 fowl 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’ll be able to feed geese, including a contact of caprice to your stroll.
A few of our favourite moments in Kastoria have been the best — strolling alongside the lakeside with a espresso in hand. In a world more and more overrun by mass tourism, Kastoria affords a uncommon sort of serenity, and Lake Orestiada embodies that peace in each ripple and breeze.
Dragon’s Cave
One of many must-see lakeside points of interest 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 street 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 fashionable discovery, however researchers did discover bones of cave bears, believed to have gone extinct over 10,000 years in the past.
The very best half? You don’t should be an skilled hiker to discover it. The doorway is true by the street, and the whole cave has a well-maintained customer’s path, making it accessible and secure for nearly anybody. It’s like stepping right into a fantasy realm proper within the coronary heart of Kastoria.
Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa
In case you take a leisurely 10-minute lakeside stroll northeast from the Dragon’s Cave, you’ll end up standing earlier than certainly one of Kastoria’s most traditionally important websites — the Monastery of Panagia Mavriotissa. Kastoria is dwelling 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 throughout 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 principal 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 throughout the Ottoman period. Notably, most of the painted figures had their eyes intentionally scratched out, a heartbreaking reminder of the positioning’s turbulent previous.
Simply throughout the monastery, you’ll additionally meet an historical companion to this holy website: a 900-year-old aircraft 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 advised us that they’ve virtually 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 rely 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 robust via time.
Except for 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 Resort. Our good friend Ces even discovered pleasure choosing 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 accessible is the Hill of Prophet Elias, named after the miracle-working saint and patron of tailors and fur merchants.
Probably the most putting construction right here is the Church of Prophet Elias, a serene spot that overlooks the whole metropolis. However the complicated is not only for prayer. Close to the church is the Profitis Ilias Lounge Café, a comfortable 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 attraction. Because of Kristos, the pleasant proprietor, we warmed up with three sorts of scorching chocolate: traditional, strawberry, and cookies and cream. It’s a gem of a spot and also you shouldn’t miss it in the event you’re on the town.
Agios Athanasios
Agios Athanasios affords a fair larger vantage level, the place you’ll be able to see the Church of Prophet Elias within the foreground, the shimmering lake within the center, and the peninsula stretching out within the background, making a ravishing composition of layers. We have been fortunate to go to in spring, when the hillside bursts into colour with a blanket of yellow flowers.
You’ll know you’re in the suitable place once 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 picture spot, however do tread fastidiously! Only a quick 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 historical previous. Nestled on the banks of Lake Orestiada, it’s dwelling to one of the essential archaeological websites — the oldest identified lake settlement in Europe, courting all the best way again to 5260 BCE. Which means it existed throughout the Center Neolithic age, and it was estimated to be dwelling to about 3,000 people.
Found by a bunch of fishermen in 1932 after a drought revealed a few of its remnants, the positioning has since unearthed hundreds of artifacts, together with bones, ceramics, and the intriguing Dispilio pill, which a wood plaque inscribed with markings. In the present day, guests can discover a reconstructed lakeside village, full with thatched huts, in an open-air museum that feels each academic and immersive. We even shared the positioning with a bunch of schoolkids on a subject journey! Earlier than you allow, swing by the little store by the exit for a memento.
Nestorio
Farther southwest lies the neighboring village of Nestorio, a spot steeped in fantasy and historical past. In response to 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 imagine {that a} younger Alexander the Nice was as soon as hosted right here, studying the artwork of battle.
Very similar to 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’ll be able to spot spot a few of its landmarks, together with the four-star Afkos Grammos Boutique Resort Resort.
This upscale resort boasts a restaurant that serves scrumptious conventional Greek dishes, a terrace with panoramic views, and well-appointed rooms excellent for unwinding, particularly when the village will get busy. And when does that occur, you ask? Two phrases: River Get together.
River Get together (River Aliakmon)
River Get together 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 bop, sing, and have a good time below the summer time sky.
However the great thing about the river doesn’t fade when the crowds go away. On our go to, we have 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 strengthened years later, Haris took on the duty himself. He even gave us somewhat demo on correct stone skipping, although, let’s simply say, it’s tougher than it appears to be like!
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 website as soon as doubled as a fortress, however it’s best identified 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 instances and finally led her to this very monastery. She lived a humble life right here, even sleeping within the hearth of the kitchen, and was identified for performing miracles that drew pilgrims to the positioning. After her passing on Might 6, 1974, the monastery grew to become her closing resting place, and her relics stay enshrined right here.
We have 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, inbuilt 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 certainly one of her favourite spots within the metropolis. She’d usually move by, admiring it from the surface, captivated by the candle all the time lit by the households who take care of the church. We have been about to go away when the sort caretaker, Sir Giorgos, invited us in and gave us a tour! He shared tales concerning the church’s previous and even allow us to peek into the sanctuary behind the iconostasis, and identified the authentic columns which can be nonetheless standing. The inside, adorned with stunning icons and art work, was completely charming.
That is what makes Kastoria so particular. In all places you flip, there’s a bit 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 greatest meals we’ve ever had. The elements listed below are simply on one other stage — from the prized Florina peppers to the succulent lamb chops, every little thing tasted extremely contemporary and filled with taste.
In case you’re planning to eat your manner via the town, listed below are some conventional dishes you completely should attempt:
- 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 Big 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 suitable softness. As soon as prepped, they’re usually baked with herbs, tomatoes, and meat.
- Batzo (or Bajo). This can be a brined cheese that’s usually ready saganaki-style. That is certainly one of our absolute favorites. Some eating places high it with a fried egg, whereas others fry it to a crisp. Irrespective of the way it’s cooked, its distinct salty taste all the time steals the present.
And people are simply the appetizers! For the primary course, don’t anticipate numerous seafood right here. Kastoria is all concerning the meats. A platter loaded with grilled goodies is the go-to. Lamb, beef, hen, pork, and even wild boar. Suppose 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 standard, each in houses 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 positively shouldn’t miss!
Finest Accommodations in Kastoria
Whereas we have been in Kastoria, we have been in a position to take a look at three of its greatest inns. Two of them are historic and conventional, each over 200 years outdated, whereas one is extra fashionable and minimalist. We additionally included a number of properties in different villages exterior of the town heart however close to some points of interest.
- Resort Orologopoulou Mansion, a 250-year-old mansion transformed right into a resort with fashionable room facilities within the metropolis heart. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Vergoula’s Mansion, a brief stroll from Orologopoulou and one of many oldest inns in Kastoria. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Esperos Place Luxurious and Spa Resort, a recent and stylish property within the metropolis heart. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Afkos Grammos Boutique Resort Resort, an ideal possibility in the event you’re heading to Nestório for the long-lasting River Get together music competition. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
- Krystal Resort, tucked in a peaceable village of Krystallopigi, excellent for these planning to cross the Greece–Albania border. Examine Charges & Availability! ✅
Seek for extra Kastoria Accommodations!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, contemplate PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced charge.
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