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.

Water...falling in love with Edessa!

Here i am under the main waterfalls in Edessa, a beautiful little mountain city in Macedonia. It is easily one of the most picturesque cities in all of northern Greece. The city is built on a cliff, surrounding a series of waterfalls and has several water ways wandering throughout its streets and parks. This creates a very quaint setting with dramatic views in all directions. You are never far from water while walking through Edessa, you will find yourself continually crossing over little bridges no matter where you turn.

The proud citizens keep their community very clean and well maintained. There is an absence of garbage littered streets that we have come to expect here in Greece and the buildings are all very well maintained in traditional fashion. It is a great place to stroll with several nice cafes and restaurants around the downtown square and nice walking paths trailing around the water falls and streams that wind their way through the city.

Legend has it that the area was colonized by citizens of Argos. The story goes...their leader upon reaching this area let a goat loose and where the goat stopped to feed they build the town. There is a sculpture in the city's square commemorating the event.

The area has been continually inhabited for over 3000 years by a variety of cultures. Its close proximity to the borders of Balkan and Serbian nations to the north, made it a victim of pillage and take overs throughout its history. In more modern times it was burned to the ground by the Nazi's in retaliation for the death of one German soldier by resistance forces. Those Nazi's really had an odd sense of justice.

There is an ancient Roman site worth checking out below the waterfalls that are well maintained. This is a perfectly romantic place for a couple to spend a weekend and a great home base for those winter visitors that want to try out the local ski hills. The air up here is so clean and refreshing it is exhilarating, it really makes a person feel very awake and alive.

Sculpture in the square, celebrating the region's rural goat herding roots.

A whole new meaning to... a cold shower!

A view of the valley from behind the waterfalls.

Giant plane tree downtown.

Another smaller waterfall.

The Star of Vergina, the symbol of Macedonia.

Frozen mist below the falls.

Walkway leading behind the falls.

Nice place to seat and meditate!