At an altitude of 600 metres lies the famous village of Makrinitsa, the balcony or "eagle's lair" of Pelion. Makrinitsa was a large centre of education back in the 17th century, with many schools functioning at that time.

The village is full of traditional cobbled paths connecting everything, even the highest and lowest parts of the settlement, which have a difference in altitude of up to 500 metres! Due to the topography, we see buildings with three floors visible from the front but only one floor from the rear!

All around the village, visitors can find many churches and monasteries, for example, the Cathedral, the chapel of Saints, the women’s monastery of St. Gerasimos, etc. In the centre of the village, there is the traditional village square which features attractive trees and fresh running water.

Sights

In the village square, visitors can enjoy the fountain of "immortal water", the splendid trees and the magnificent view across the city of Volos.
The wall painting by Theophilos, depicting the death of Katsantoni, can be seen in the Community cafe in the square.
The village boasts many buildings constructed in the traditional style of Pelion architecture and connected by the attractive cobbled paths.


Visit

The folklore museum with its collection of rare relics.
The monastery of St. Gerasimos with the miraculous icons.
St. John's church in the village square.


Activities

"Maides" in May: a ceremony inspired by the ancient Dionysus ceremonies which have survived to the present day

Hiking paths in the region: from the parking area, a path begins to Pouri, which runs through the village and passes the prophet Elias, "Trano Isioma" (where the beech forest starts) and the impressive stone bridge of Karya.

Winter skiing in the ski resort "Agriolefkes": the resort is only 12 kilometres from Makrynitsa with 6 slopes and 5 lifts for all levels of competence (Ski Resort Web Site)

Text George Mavrogeorgos