Servia...one of the hidden gems of Greece!

Here i am at the mountain top fortress above Servia. Behind me is a pass through the mountains towards the Plains of Thessaly. This is one of my favorite places in all of Greece to go hiking. It is strange that it is not better known as it is very beautiful and historically very important. Both Alexander the Great and the apostle Paul came through this pass as did many armies through out the centuries.

The Name Servia comes from the Romans when they occupied this area from the first century A.D. The Greek name for the town was Phylacae. Both names have the same meaning "to watch over", with  good reason as this is the mountain pass that separated Macedonia and Thessaly. The area was first settled  over 7000 years ago, with archaeological finds showing trade links with Thrace, Macedonia and even distant Milos island. Unfortunately the prehistoric archeological site was lost under water with the creation of Lake Polyphytos. 

The town sits between the lake and the mountains. Above the town you can see the pass with the ancient road that leads to Thessaly. There is a wonderfully well maintained stone trail up to the mountain top fortress with beautiful views of the mountain range, as well as the lake and the Macedonian plains. I strongly suggest anyone with moderate health to not miss the opportunity to take this incredible trek, it is well worth your time and energy. The walk up is not very steep so it's an easy hike, although it can be a bit cold and damp, so i suggest you come better dressed than i am.

The fortress up above has been occupied by early Greeks from both Macedonia and Thessaly, Romans, Goths, as well as other northern tribes, Byzantines, Ottomans and even German - Italian forces in World War II. Like so many communities in Greece, the Nazi's burned down the town of Servia in retaliation against actions by Greek resistance forces. Perhaps the modern German citizens could consider how much long term damage their country inflicted upon Greece a short 70 years ago, before being so critical of the current economic crisis.

Stone sentinel over the pass.

Another stone sentinel with the town of Servia in the background.

Ancient Byzantine church below the fortress.

Ancient church built into a cave.

Where ancient traditions meet modern animations!

Years of people scratching their initials in an ancient mural of the Virgin and Christ child.

Looking down upon Servia.

Steps up to the cave church.

Ancient fortified walls on the mount top.

Water spring below the cave church.

Walking trail to the fortress.

Ancient mountain top tower.

Old mountain water spring.

Another ancient watch tower.

Walls of the fortress.

Stone walk way with Servia in the background.