Naoussa is a charming town in Greece that has a rich and diverse history and culture. Whether you are interested in ancient Macedonia, the Greek War of Independence, the local winemaking industry, or the picturesque fishing port, Naoussa has something to offer for everyone. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ways to learn about Naoussa and its fishing tradition, and how to make the most of your visit.
Visit the historical sites
Naoussa has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. Here are some of the historical sites that you should not miss:
- The School of Aristotle: This is where the famous philosopher taught a young Alexander the Great and his companions. The site is located near the village of Isvoria, about 6 km from Naoussa. You can see the remains of the buildings, a statue of Aristotle, and a museum that displays artifacts and information about the school.
- The Memorial of the 1822 Holocaust: This is a monument that commemorates the massacre of the inhabitants of Naoussa by the Ottoman forces during the Greek War of Independence. The memorial is located on a hill overlooking the town, and it consists of a large cross and a circular wall with the names of the victims.
- The Old Castle: This is a medieval fortress that was built by the Franks on the site of an ancient acropolis. The castle was later used by the Venetians and the Ottomans, and it was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1963. You can still see some of the walls, towers, and gates, as well as a beautiful view of the town and the sea.
Explore the fishing port
Naoussa is famous for its fishing port, which is one of the most picturesque in Greece. The port is full of colorful boats, taverns, cafes, and shops, and it is a great place to enjoy the local cuisine, especially seafood. You can also take a boat trip to some of the nearby beaches or islands, such as Kolymbithres, Monastiri, or Agios Ioannis Detis.
One of the highlights of visiting the fishing port is witnessing the traditional fishing method called paragadi, which involves using long lines with hooks to catch fish. The fishermen set up their lines at night and collect them in the morning, bringing their catch to the port. You can watch them unload their fish, or even join them for a fishing experience.
Taste the local wine
Naoussa is also known for its wine production, which has a history of over 2000 years. The town is home to several wineries that produce high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties, such as Xinomavro, Malagousia, Assyrtiko, and Roditis. You can visit some of these wineries and taste their wines, as well as learn about their history and production process.
Some of the wineries that offer tours and tastings are:
- Moraitis Winery: This is one of the oldest wineries in Naoussa, founded in 1910 by Manolis Moraitis. The winery produces organic wines from its own vineyards, and it has a modern tasting room and a museum that showcases old tools and equipment.
- Thymiopoulos Vineyards: This is a family-owned winery that was established in 2003 by Apostolos Thymiopoulos. The winery cultivates biodynamic vines on different terroirs, and it produces expressive wines that reflect their origin.
- Dalamara Winery: This is another family-owned winery that dates back to 1840. The winery follows organic farming practices and produces wines from Xinomavro and other rare grape varieties, such as Negoska and Kerassia.
Enjoy the local festivals
Naoussa has a vibrant cultural scene that celebrates its history and traditions with various festivals throughout the year. Some of these festivals are:
- The Carnival: This is one of the most famous carnivals in Greece, which takes place in February or March. The carnival features parades, dances, music, costumes, and pranks, but the main attraction is the custom of Genitsaroi and Boules. This is a reenactment of the Ottoman siege of Naoussa, where men dress up as Ottoman soldiers (Genitsaroi) and women dress up as brides (Boules), and they chase each other around the town.
- The Feast of Agia Irini: This is a religious festival that honors the patron saint of Naoussa, Agia Irini (Saint Irene). The festival takes place on May 5th, and it involves a procession of the icon of the saint, followed by a fair with food, drinks, music, and dancing.
- The Fish Festival: This is a gastronomic festival that celebrates the fishing tradition of Naoussa. The festival takes place in August, and it offers free fish dishes, wine, and live music to the visitors.
Conclusion
Naoussa is a town that has a lot to offer to anyone who wants to learn about its history and culture, and its fishing tradition. By visiting the historical sites, exploring the fishing port, tasting the local wine, and enjoying the local festivals, you will have a memorable and enriching experience. Naoussa is a town that will charm you with its beauty, hospitality, and authenticity.
