History Of Lafkos

AN EXCITING JOURNEY

LOCATION

A significant village in the area, Lafkos is located at the peak along the ridge of South Pelion, 310 meters above sea level with a panoramic view of the Pagasetic Gulf.  It is accessible from the village of Metohi or from the coastal road through the village of Milina when coming from the city of Volos.  It is 54 km from Volos.    

It is a distinct village, with a large and impressive plaza, stone fountains and cobblestone streets in which visitors can discover mansions with typical Pelion style architecture.  Reminiscing walks through the booming neighborhoods of Lafkos while smelling the lovely scents from the courtyards and from the herbs that flourish in every corner of Lafkos and all of Pelion, is the most beautiful memory a visitor will bring home with themselves.

NAME

There are many theories and beliefs regarding the name of our village, however the one that prevails is that it comes from the word “glafkos” which has also been adopted in English as glaucous, and means clean and bright, just like Lafkos’ horizon.

HISTORY

The first residents of the village appeared at the end of the 15th century and established themselves in the Paliovrysi ravine, fearful of raiders (Turks and pirates).  Subsequently, as the years passed by and the levels of political and economic conditions improved, the local population began to increase, and they began to build houses in various locations of the village.  Beautiful mansions sprang up in every part of the town, which have been preserved to this day with some maintenance.

A Brilliant Destination

LAFKOS

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WARM ACCOMMODATION
The Accommodation of the village is appropriate for enjoyable and unique holidays.
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BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
In Lafkos you can find really beautiful beaches
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MEMORABLE LANDSCAPES AND TRAILS
There you can take great delight in landscapes and trails.

ARCHITECTURE

The houses for the most part were two-story, with 60 cm thick walls, and large wooden doors that were secured from the inside with a bar (along with a thick wooden pole that is applied horizontally onto the door and secured on both sides of the wall).  The windows had small dimensions.  On the ground floor the animals were kept, products such as olive oil were stored, and the housewife’s kitchen and wood-fired oven were also found.  On the first floor, which was connected with an interior wooden staircase, there were one or two rooms, where the children and occasionally relatives and friends slept.  On the last floor were the living room and the parents’ bedroom.   

LAFKOS TODAY

Beautiful Lafkos continued to develop throughout the years mainly culturally but also economically. Many young people went to other areas of Greece and abroad because they desired to acquire knowledge and be educated.  Even though the population decreased, there were many benefits for the cultural and overall development of our home, since all those people contributed significantly with their knowledge in many ways.  It is a year round destination since local hospitality together with traditional accommodation produce a pleasant stay for visitors.  We cannot forget to mention the local cuisine, which anyone can taste at the local restaurants, being that it has made Lafkos a culinary destination as well.  Furthermore, the Cultural Club of Lafkos, “Drasi” (Action), conducts a series of musical and dance events throughout the year with the aim of entertaining the locals with the rich musical tradition.  

PHOTO GALLERY