Panagia
Panagia in Thassos, a stunning traditional mountain village, is situated east of Ipsarion Mountain at an altitude of about 300 meters in the northeastern part of the island. It's only 8 kilometers away from the island's capital, Limenas. Thanks to its ideal location, the village is easily accessible and very popular among visitors. Near Panagia in Thassos, you'll find Skala Potamia and Skala Panagia, where you'll have a plethora of options for accommodation, dining, and nightlife.
The village holds a history of at least 300 years, when the residents of the area, fearing piracy, abandoned the coasts and took refuge in the mountains. The village was initially named "Anastasio," but the name "Panagia" prevailed, thanks to the village's church, which is, of course, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Despite the difficulties, the settlement evolved rapidly. In 1858, when the fear of pirates was a thing of the past, Panagia already had 600 homes and, together with Theologos, it was one of the two largest villages in Thassos. After the revolution of 1821, Panagia became the capital of Thassos, replacing Theologos, which was a little inconvenient as a location due to its considerable distance from the sea.
Trade transactions with the opposite coast of Kavala developed in the village. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of all this is that Panagia even acquired its own currency, the so-called “bakires”, which you can see in the village church, where they are preserved as relics of the village’s bright past.
In the village, people would either walk or use donkeys to get around at that time. As a result, roads and cobblestone paths are so narrow for a modern car. The transportation of today made it necessary to construct a larger road around the settlement in order to preserve the traditional character of the village, but also to facilitate movements and visits.
In Panagia, there are currently about 900 residents, according to the most recent demographic data. This number may seem small compared to large cities, but it is quite significant for a mountain village in Thassos. Locals enjoy a peaceful traditional life and are in close touch with nature and the history of their place. While the number of people living in the village stays about the same all year, lots more people visit in the summer to enjoy its beauty and friendly atmosphere.
The architecture of the village certainly takes you back to another era. Both the terrain's morphology and the preservation of the village’s traditional style play a role in that since houses are built with "sachnisia" (a Greek traditional building technique) and traditionally built balconies. Walking along the narrow cobblestone streets, the doll-like houses with slate roofs and small wooden balconies make up a fairy-tale stroll between the past and the present.
Beautiful manor houses, built in the late last century and the beginning of this current one, adorn the village while preserving folk tradition. In 1978, the village of Panagia was designated a traditional settlement, and building standards protect its traditional character up until today.
The buildings of the village are certainly landmarks of Panagia Thassos. The fountains, the natural stream that crosses the village, and the green slopes of Ypsario Mountain are ideal for relaxation and hiking in nature. On such a route, you can taste the cool water from the mountain springs and rest under the shade of the towering plane tree. Green canals crisscross the village, creating a dreamlike image, while the numerous fountains offer a naturally cooling breeze.
Drakotrypa is another nearby hiking route with a duration of about 15 minutes, through a magical path with pines, plane trees, and wild vegetation. It ends up in a cave with stalactites and stalagmites and has not yet been fully explored.
The view to the mountains, the plain, and the fields are equally impressive, while the natural landscape exudes serenity and harmony.
Regarding gastronomy, the village offers a variety of choices. Taverns in the village center serve delicious meat dishes and local flavors, while the village's coffee shops also offer the opportunity to taste local tsipouro and wine, interact with the locals, and enjoy their hospitality.
Just 4 kilometers away from Panagia, you will find Golden Beach at Skala Panagia, one of the most impressive beaches on the island. This beach, which once served as the village's port, is now a resort center with a multitude of hotels and a municipal camping area. This place is great for visitors. Its golden beach sparkles when the sun is at its highest, and the bright blue beach waters are crystal clear. It's the perfect spot to relax and have fun.
Religious tourism also thrives in Panagia, as there are several churches worth visiting since they form the village's religious and cultural heritage. Elements of the village's history, tradition, and the lifestyle of its inhabitants are evident in its architecture and decor.
The village's main church is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is characterized by its grandeur and excellent architecture. The impressive wood-carved iconostasis of exquisite Volos craftsmanship is simply iconic.
Apart from the main church, there are 11 other churches from the 19th century, including the churches of Saint Athanasios, Saint Charalambos, the Theologian, Saint George, Saints Constantine and Helen, Saint John, and Saint Panteleimon. All these churches are characterized by their traditional architecture and simple lines.
The village of Panagia on Thassos Island is renowned for its events and festivities. The festival on August 15th is particularly noteworthy when the village celebrates alongside the Virgin Mary. Among the traditions of this day is the "kourbani", a traditional dish of meat and wheat, shared after the religious ceremony.
Also, on Clean Monday, the village takes on a symbolic form with a rich carnival celebration that includes a float parade, carnival costumes, and a satirical representation of current events and the entire Greek political scene.
Finally, on the eve of November 1st, All Saints' Day, the village again prepares "kourbani" and celebrates both known and unknown Saints. All these elements constitute a rich social culture expressed through the village's traditional events and festivals.
Panagia is beautiful throughout the year, but it truly shines in summer, as it harmoniously combines the beautiful sea with the greenery of the mountains. It is a village that will embrace every traveler. Surrounded by lush vegetation and built on the slopes of the mountain, this traditional village offers stunning views of the sea, impressive traditional homes, and sweet hospitality for visitors. It is an ideal destination to get to know the traditional character of the island and to feel as though time has stopped in an utterly nostalgic and authentic era.