GENERAL INFORMATION
The prefecture of Evrytania is among the very few regions of Greece with no direct exit to the sea. But the merest glance at the landscape of this region will provide sound evidence that this fact is far from a handicap. The forestal wealth of Evrytania is unsurpassed. Pine, fir, beech, and oak trees cover every slope, forming a sea of their own, colored in differing shades of green rather than blue. Countless rivers and streams run through these endless woods, making the scenery seem as an image from a dream that has materialized. The small population of less than 30000 has been unable to spoil any of this natural beauty, most of which remains virgin soil, touched only by those adventurous enough to wander within this land.
HISTORY-CULTURE
The coarse anaglyph of Evrytania disallowed the evolution of large cities in ancient times, as these would require farmlands for their sustenance. Travelers would avoid this region for the same reason, excluding any possibility for trade-generated growth. Thus the Evrytania of antiquity never had cities to compare to those seen on the remaining of the Greek mainland, but this has left the region unspoiled for future generations. However, Evrytania was far more significant than it has been accounted for. Local warriors, renowned for their fierce courage, were protagonists in repelling the Gaulish hordes which invaded Greece after sacking Rome in 279 BC. The capital of the time was Oichalia, very near Karpenisi, the capital of today. During the time of Byzantine rule the local populace enjoyed a lax autonomy and tax exemption, as imperial tax collectors could not collect in such a landscape. Turks also had a difficult time here, which became more difficult at the time of the Greek War for Independence.
SIGHTS
The entire prefecture is a monument of a natural beauty. Picturesque villages with stone-made dwellings and stone-paved streets seem to decorate rather than interrupt the evergreen landscape. Streams of water runs freely, seemingly from everywhere, adding its relaxing sound to the majestic picture. Churches and monasteries, most of them remnants of the Byzantine era, emanate a sense of piety which seems to blend with the land. Elaborate decorations and rare collections reward those who will take the time to pay them a visit. The old roads would cross the rivers over charming stone bridges, each one of these being a work of art, standing like an elegant touch of man amid a majestic natural setting. Other sights include the location of Kefalovryso, the origin of the great freedom fighter Markos Botsaris, the location near Krikello, where the battle against the Gauls took place nearly 2300 years ago, the ruins of the ancient settlement in Domnista, and the Black Cave near Proussos. The monasteries of Tatarna and Panagia Proussiotissa must be visited, as should be most of the villages such as Gorgianades, Agia Triada, Megalo and Mikro Chorio, Viniani, Vraggiana, Granitsa, and Voutyro.
ENTERTAINMENT-SPORTS-SHOPPING
There is no challenge which can be sought from a mountainous landscape which cannot be found in Evrytania. The rivers winding between the mountains have carved deep canyons and gorges, forming ideal settings for rafting and canoeing adventures. Steep cliffs beckon mountain climbers to test their skills, while countless paths and mountain crossings running through dense forests shape the trekkers? dream world. In winter, a blanket of snow covers the top of mt. Velouhi, signaling the beginning of the season for skiing. Accommodations and entertainment are fully available in Karpenisi, including hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes. Many guesthouses can be found in most of the smaller towns and villages, where traditional taverns and grill houses offer delicious meals. Small workshops offer traditional artifacts, while local traditional produce of highest quality such as cheeses and honey is commonly found in small grocery stores. Local hospitality is warm, even by the standards of a nation such as Greece, justly reputed to excel in this trait.
ACCESS
Bus services are carried out from Athens to Karpenisi on a daily basis. Bus routes also arrive from other main cities.
CONNECTIONS
Direct bus routes connect the capital of Karpenisi with Athens, Lamia, and Agrinio. The local bus network provides access from Karpenisi to every village within the prefecture.
MUSEUMS
The villages of Granitsa, Megalo Chorio and Agia Triada host interesting folk art collections. The exhibits of the museum in Domnitsa include traditional objects, documents and works of handicraft which conjure images of previous centuries. The libraries in Agia Triada, Proussos and Fournas hold collections which include rare tomes of ecclesiastical and historical interest.
ALTERNATIVE TOURISM
Agrotourism, cultural-historical, rural, spiritual, ecotourism, elderly programmes, sporting (mountain climbing, trekking, mountain bike, rafting, canoe-kayak, canyoning, river trekking, ski, snowboard, jeep safari, horse riding).
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS:
KARPENISSI AREA CODE: 22370-
POLICE STATION: 22370-89150, 89160, 89170
MUNICIPALITY: 22370-21012-3
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORG.: 22370-80035
POST OFFICE: 22370-22342
TAXI STATION: 22370-22100, 22666
HOSPITAL: 22370-80680
PHARMACIES: 22370-80380
BUS STATION: 22370-80013
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