Discover Imathia: Land of Ancient Glory and Natural Beauty

Imathia: Where History and Nature Meet

The region of Imathia, in the heart of Macedonia, is a land of contrasts — from fertile plains and rushing rivers to snowcapped mountains and ancient royal tombs. Its rich past and vibrant present make it one of Northern Greece’s most fascinating destinations, combining archaeology, culture, and natural beauty in equal measure.

Veria: A Byzantine City with Timeless Charm

The town of Veria, capital of the prefecture, stands as a bridge between past and present. Once one of the most important Byzantine centers of Macedonia, Veria still preserves the charm of its traditional neighborhoods, cobbled alleys, and old mansions.

The city is famous for its 51 Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, many of which are adorned with superb frescoes. The Church of the Resurrection, Christ the Savior, and Panagia Dovra are among the most notable. Walking through Veria feels like traveling through centuries of faith and art.

Veria is also closely connected to Saint Paul the Apostle, who preached here in the 1st century A.D. The Apostle Paul’s Tribune, a small open-air shrine, commemorates his presence and attracts pilgrims from around the world. Modern Veria blends these sacred sites with a lively town center filled with cafés, shops, and a welcoming local spirit.

Vergina: The Royal Tombs of the Macedonian Kings

Just 12 kilometers southwest of Veria lies Vergina, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovered by archaeologist Manolis Andronikos in the late 1970s, Vergina was identified as Aigai, the first capital of the ancient Macedonian kingdom.

Excavations revealed the palace complex, acropolis, theater, Hellenistic houses, and — most famously — the royal tombs. The most important is the Tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, which contained astonishing treasures:
a solid gold larnax, a golden wreath, ivory decorations, and royal weapons — all preserved in exceptional condition.

Another tomb, believed to belong to a young prince, possibly Alexander IV, included a painted frieze and an ornate gold-and-ivory bed, among the most exquisite works of ancient craftsmanship ever discovered.

The third, a cist tomb, revealed the breathtaking fresco of Persephone’s abduction by Pluto, and the hunting scene on Philip’s tomb frieze remains one of the only surviving masterpieces of ancient Greek painting.

The finds from Vergina, now displayed in the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai, offer a direct, emotional connection to Macedonia’s golden age.

Naoussa: The City of Water and Wine

About 19 kilometers from Veria, the town of Naoussa lies amid lush greenery at the foot of Mount Vermio. Known for its cascading waterfalls, vineyards, and fruit orchards, Naoussa is a town of life and color.

It is the heart of the Naoussa PDO wine region, where the Xinomavro grape produces some of Greece’s most distinguished red wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in local wineries, stroll through the Arapitsa River gorge, and explore the traditional stone houses that give the town its unique character.

Naoussa also comes alive during the Carnival season, when locals celebrate with colorful parades and the famous “Genitsaroi and Boules” traditional dances — an experience that blends folklore, history, and joy.

Lefkadia: Ancient Tombs and Hellenistic Art

Near Naoussa lies the archaeological site of Lefkadia, a lesser-known yet fascinating destination. Excavations have uncovered Macedonian tombs, Hellenistic buildings, and fine wall paintings, offering further insight into the life and art of ancient Macedonia. The Tomb of Lyson and Kallikles, with its vibrant frescoes and inscriptions, stands as one of the most remarkable examples of funerary art in Greece.

Panagia Soumela and Mount Vermio

Southwest of Veria, on the slopes of Mount Vermio, stands one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Northern Greece — the Monastery of Panagia Soumela. It was founded by Pontic Greek refugees who settled in the area after 1922, bringing with them the icon of the Virgin Mary believed to have been painted by the Apostle Luke.

Perched at 1,000 meters above sea level, the monastery offers panoramic views and a profound sense of peace. Every August 15th, pilgrims from all over Greece gather here to honor the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.

Nearby lies the village of Kastanies, often snow-covered in winter, adding to the mystical atmosphere of Vermio’s landscape.

Seli Ski Resort: Winter Adventures in Imathia

At an altitude of 1,400 meters, the Seli Ski Center near Kato Vermio is one of Greece’s oldest and most popular ski destinations. Offering modern facilities, multiple slopes, and a cozy alpine vibe, Seli attracts winter sports enthusiasts from across the country. In summer, the same area becomes ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the crisp mountain air.

Nea Nikomidia: The Dawn of Civilization

Just 9 kilometers northeast of Veria, the archaeological site of Nea Nikomidia has revealed one of the oldest known agricultural settlements in Europe, dating back to the 7th millennium B.C. The site’s discoveries include clay female figurines, frog-shaped steatite idols, and tools that offer precious insights into the lives of the first farmers of Macedonia.

Many of these finds are displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Veria, alongside artifacts from Lefkadia and other sites, creating a complete picture of the region’s long human history.

A Journey Through Time and Beauty

Imathia is a destination where every era has left its mark — from Neolithic villages and Macedonian palaces to Byzantine churches and modern mountain resorts. Whether you’re drawn by the legend of Philip and Alexander, the spiritual calm of Panagia Soumela, or the natural beauty of Vermio and Naoussa, this region of Northern Greece promises an unforgettable journey through time, art, and nature.