Messolonghi
Messolonghi: The Sacred Town and its Lagoon
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The Town
Messolonghi is a small and picturesque town, situated at the edge of the lagoon of Messolonghi. Its name derives from the Italian word mezzo-laghi (in the middle of the lake). The first settlers of the place were Dalmatian pirates, who settled there because of the lagoon. It was a haven and it had abundant fish production. They lived in huts standing on poles over the water level of the lagoon.
WHAT DO WE LOVE ABOUT THIS PLACE
It is a "fairytale" town of about 13,000 residents on the water, offering a journey through time and history. Here, you can explore secluded beaches and wetlands, catch a glimpse of the magical world of birds, and indulge in tasting expeditions in a place renowned for its quality products.
Messolonghi is a city where the past and present intertwine, set against a backdrop composed of countless distinct moments. This place boasts a rich cultural profile defined by its historical walls, the grand entrance gate adorned with the Statue of Liberty, the Garden of Heroes, archaeological sites, museums, historical islands in the lagoon, local gastronomy, and a myriad of activities to enjoy. Together, these landmarks form the quintessential essence of Messolonghi.
Messolonghi is a city where the past and present intertwine, set against a backdrop composed of countless distinct moments. This place boasts a rich cultural profile defined by its historical walls, the grand entrance gate adorned with the Statue of Liberty, the Garden of Heroes, archaeological sites, museums, historical islands in the lagoon, local gastronomy, and a myriad of activities to enjoy. Together, these landmarks form the quintessential essence of Messolonghi.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
Messolonghi epitomizes freedom and the arts, set within a rare ecosystem that promises unique exploration experiences.
The distinctive shape of the region is shaped by the delta formed by the rivers Evinos and Acheloos, influenced by their sediment deposits.
The shallow lagoon, along with its islets, salt marshes, sandbanks, and enclosed bays, collectively form a national park spanning 616,000 hectares. This significant ecosystem has been under protection since 1971 through the Ramsar Convention, recognizing its global environmental value as wetlands. It is also integrated into the European Ecological Network Natura 2000. The area supports a diverse wildlife population, including over 280 species of birds and numerous fish species. It's home to more than 40,000 ducks and waterfowl, featuring the majestic silver pelicans, storks, and striking flamingos with their distinctive pink wings. Additionally, the lagoon hosts cormorants, birds of prey such as cranes, vultures, and kingfishers, as well as ospreys, warblers, golden egrets, and other species. The rare caretta-caretta turtles also nest in this ecologically rich area.
The distinctive shape of the region is shaped by the delta formed by the rivers Evinos and Acheloos, influenced by their sediment deposits.
The shallow lagoon, along with its islets, salt marshes, sandbanks, and enclosed bays, collectively form a national park spanning 616,000 hectares. This significant ecosystem has been under protection since 1971 through the Ramsar Convention, recognizing its global environmental value as wetlands. It is also integrated into the European Ecological Network Natura 2000. The area supports a diverse wildlife population, including over 280 species of birds and numerous fish species. It's home to more than 40,000 ducks and waterfowl, featuring the majestic silver pelicans, storks, and striking flamingos with their distinctive pink wings. Additionally, the lagoon hosts cormorants, birds of prey such as cranes, vultures, and kingfishers, as well as ospreys, warblers, golden egrets, and other species. The rare caretta-caretta turtles also nest in this ecologically rich area.
SPECIAL TIPS
The language
Here are some specific words and terms that you might want to familiarize yourself with before going on your trip, to ensure sustainable tourism practices by integrating yourself into the Messolonghi language:
PELADES: The fishermen's wooden houses standing on pointed stakes in the water are called pelades and will offer you countless photo opportunities.
GAITES: A small, shallow, and narrow boat commonly employed in the lagoon. The array of vibrant colors they display, along with the mesmerizing reflections on the tranquil lagoon waters, creates a truly spectacular scene. You won't find a comparable vista anywhere else in Greece.
IVARIA: The traditional fish farms, made of reeds, among the islands of the lagoons, where they capture the smaller fish to feed on natural plankton, grow up and later be caught.
AVGOTARACHO: The famous "Greek Caviar" registered as a Product of Designation of Origin (PDO) of the lagoon.
PELADES: The fishermen's wooden houses standing on pointed stakes in the water are called pelades and will offer you countless photo opportunities.
GAITES: A small, shallow, and narrow boat commonly employed in the lagoon. The array of vibrant colors they display, along with the mesmerizing reflections on the tranquil lagoon waters, creates a truly spectacular scene. You won't find a comparable vista anywhere else in Greece.
IVARIA: The traditional fish farms, made of reeds, among the islands of the lagoons, where they capture the smaller fish to feed on natural plankton, grow up and later be caught.
AVGOTARACHO: The famous "Greek Caviar" registered as a Product of Designation of Origin (PDO) of the lagoon.
The area
For travelers seeking a destination of unparalleled beauty and rich history, Messolonghi offers easy access and affordability, making it an ideal getaway from Athens throughout the year. Beyond exploring its historical routes, visitors can engage in a variety of enriching activities and savor the local gastronomy, ensuring a memorable experience.
