Welcome to Megalochori |
Megalochori is one of the most
picturesque villages on the island. Its existence is recorded
back to the 17th century.
Home to historical mansions, old traditional houses, pirate
hideaways and wine canavas, it has a history of merchants
and wealthy land barons exporting Vinsanto wine that the island
still produces. A prominent feature of the historical homes
and mansions are the high walls, inner courtyards and solid
wooden door entrances, built for privacy and for safety against
marauding pirates.
A great effort is been made by local residents and businessmen
to preserve the characteristics and beauty of this traditional
settlement, and many of the original houses that had fallen
into disrepair, have been restored to their former glory.
|
| Photo : Klearchos Kapoutsis |
| Megalochori Square |
| In the center of the village, there
a wonderful traditional square with taverns, restaurants and
trees providing shade for a quick cup of coffee. The square
is the heart and soul of Megalochori, a gathering place for
the locals to play a game of cards or 'tavli' (backgammon).
Spiraling out in all directions is a maze of winding cobbled
streets and smooth edge pathways, just waiting to be discovered. |
| Physical Characteristics of the
Megalochori Area |
Predominantly vineyard country,
the area of Megalochori covers a large expanse of the south
western plains of Santorini, stretching towards the Caldera
on the west, and the traditional settlement built on the banks
of a stream to the east. Evidence of prehistoric settlements
has been found in the area covering the Early and Later Cycladic
periods.
There are two remote beaches on the Caldera side, both named
after churches in the area, Plaka beach and Thermi beach. They
are not accessible by car. |
|
| Fira town : 9 kilometers |
Antoniou Winery
Boutari Winery
Gavalas Vineyard |
| Tavernas, restaurants, small shops, village
square |
| Buses can be caught on the main road going
south east to Emporio, Perissa and Perivolos or back north
to Fira via Pyrgos, Messaria and Karterados. |
|
|
