The
old networks of paths which in the past facilitated communication between the villages are now an attraction for travellers. The landscape is to a large extent shaped by two man-made lakes,
Vythos and
Polyfytos, which are important wetlands, ideal for bird watching and fishing, and a good reason to visit the area. The
village of Neraida was built after the creation of the lake and is where a 1,372-metre bridge ends. This is where you’ll find a beach by the lakeshore.
Lakeside cafes and
tavernas with their backs to the street provide unobstructed views of the lake and bridge, and serve as a meeting point of locals and visitors all year round.
The location of Kozani, at a key junction of land routes connecting the east with central and western Europe, has been one of the most important factors behind the region’s economic and cultural development. Both
Kozani and
Siatista towns are famous for their
mansions of Macedonian architecture, built between the 18th and 19th centuries. Many of them have been renovated and are open to the public, boasting splendid wall paintings, wood-carved items and impressive ceilings. In Kozani town itself, the old quarters stretch around its landmark seven-storey
Agios Nikolaos clock tower, which is where the commercial hub of the town is located.
If you happen to be in
Vlasti, Kozani on August 15, you will be able to join the celebration of
Tranos Choros (Grand Dance) which is inscribed in
UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, along with
Syrrako Festival,
Tzoumerka. It’s a local cultural event that is not to be missed. It takes place in honour of the religious feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God (celebrated on August 15) and it is connected to the traditions of the pastoral community, who would gather there for the festivities, before the annual migration of their cattle to winter pastures. Despite the decline in the population of these mountain communities, the event retains its importance as a means for reuniting locals and preserving their cultural heritage.
All-day cafes, bars, tavernas and restaurants line the main streets, creating a pleasant vibe. For those interested, Kozani town also offers
theatrical performances staged by the regional municipal theatre, cinemas and a vast array of entertainment options from the morning until late at night. For its part,
Siatista has kept alive the residential character it had in its heyday due to its small population, and offers visitors a journey back in time. A visit to
Velventos is not to be missed, not only because of its many traditional houses in the old town, but also for the fine food of its tavernas, as well as the exceptional fruits and syrupy sweets.
