Mount Olympus - Mitikas

The highest mountain in Greece is the legendary Mount Olympus, or rather one of its peaks - Mitikas, reaching a height of 2919 meters above sea level. Olympus is located on the border of the Greek Thessaly and the Republic of Macedonia. Mount Olympus is not one peak or two peaks, it is about 50 peaks, the height of which ranges from 760 to 2919 meters. These peaks are cut by numerous ravines that create the most beautiful and awesome landscapes. The highest mountain in Greece was only conquered in 1913.

In ancient times, the Greeks believed that twelve main gods lived on Mount Olympus, who, under the leadership of the main god Zeus, crushed the titans, and after that order reigned in the world.

Climbing Olympus

Mount Olympus all year round covered with snow, and when the weather is clear, it sparkles in the sun. The length of the ridge, which includes Mount Olympus, is 20 kilometers.

Ordinary tourists do not rise above the foot of Olympus. However, people with special training can reach the summit within 6 hours. The base for climbing the mountain and visiting the reserve is the village of Litohoron, located near the foot of the mountain.

Olympic Reserve

The area adjacent to the mountain has been a national reserve since 1938. Here is a rich animal and vegetable world. Some of the animals are relics. Here you can meet deer, badgers, wild boars, forest wild cats. About 1700 species of plants grow on Mount Olympus. There are birch and oak forests, groves of Macedonian spruce. For many centuries, a unique yew grove has been growing in the vicinity of the monastery of Dionysius.

The name of Mount Olympus has long become a household name, denoting something grandiose. Even the highest mountain on the planet Mars is called Olympus.

All significant myths and legends are connected with Olympus in Greece. This mountain is the highest in the country. Rocky cliffs and mountain peaks of Olympus smoothly flow into the park of the same name. The nature around the Realm of the Gods looks so attractive that it seems as if it was created by the Celestials themselves.

Mount Olympus: description

The height of the mountain range Olympus is 2917 meters. Its three famous peaks: Mitikas, Skolio and Stefani are the highest points of the mountain range.

On the northern slope of the Olympic Mount is the Macedonian sanctuary of Dion. The Olympus National Park includes 1,700 species of native flora and approximately 250 species of Greek fauna.

Climbing Olympus today

Previously, no mortal could just climb Olympus. Today, organized ascents are made there, which begin at the local city of Litochoron.

From a height of 1100 meters, a hiking trail to Olympus stretches. This mark can be reached by taxi or private car. Climbing in a group is made from the village of Prionia. There you can also visit the monastery of St. Dionysius.

At an altitude of 2100 meters there are organized parking. From there the path leads to Skolio and Mitikas. The road to the summit must be overcome during the day, it is too dangerous to climb Olympus at night due to unpredictable weather conditions.

« When climbing Olympus, there are rules that can be found in the information center, so as not to anger the Gods, it is better to follow them strictly».

The peaks of Olympus were conquered for the first time in 1913. The ascent was made by Christ Kakalas.

Mount Olympus is considered amazing and very beautiful. It doesn't hurt to know the following about her:

• Olympus - native home for the twelve major Greek Gods;
• At Mitikas peak there is an iron box with a special magazine where those who managed to conquer the peak can leave their message;
• Olympus - an object included in the UNESCO list;
• The descendants of the Gods (Greeks) began to call themselves Olympians thanks to the name main mountain Greece.

The Greeks associated many myths and legends with this mountain. Since Olympus is the cradle of Greek civilization, everything that happens there affects the lives of mere mortals.

One of the myths says that once Hades fell in love with the daughter of Demeter herself and part-time the goddess of fertility, Persephone. He stole a girl from Olympus. Then prosperity left the mountain, and the first winter came. Zeus tried to get Persephone back, but she was already married to Hades. Then the Gods made a deal with their underground brother, according to which Persephone would have to spend 9 months on Olympus, and 3 months in the Underworld with her husband.

Olympus is a cultural heritage of the Greeks, a natural monument and an important historical site. His landscapes fascinate with colors and variety. Climbing Mount Olympus is still considered dangerous, although not forbidden. Earlier on sacred mountain people had no right to rise at all, unless they received the personal permission of the Gods. Today, the Gods have mercy, and tourist excursions are organized to Olympus.

culture Ancient Greece had a huge impact on the world. Even after several millennia, we study ancient history with interest and get acquainted with its heroes. The most important symbol of ancient Greek culture is Mount Olympus, where, according to legend, only selected Gods could live.

Today, the mountain peak receives thousands of tourists who want to touch the ancient shrine. How to conquer Olympus and what awaits travelers on its mountain slopes, we will tell in today's article.

Olympus is located in the mainland of the country, and more specifically in the area where the border of the regions of Thessaly and Macedonia is located.

The most famous mountain in Greece is not one peak, but a whole mountain range. The term Greek Olympus means a mountain range of 40 pointed rocks, covering an area of ​​500 km 2. Therefore, do not be surprised that when asked what is the name of the highest mountain in Greece, the answer to Olympus is not entirely correct. After all, the ridge is made up of peaks of various heights.

Mitikas is the highest mountain in Greece, which is included in the chain of peaks of Olympus. At its highest point, its height reaches 2,917 meters. This is the highest mountain in Greece, but there are several more rocks in the Olympus chain that are quite a bit behind the top of Mitikas. These include:

• Skolio (2912 m);
• Stephanie (2909 m);
• Skala (2886 m);
• Antonios (2815 m).

The mountain range is covered with snow, and even in summer time the temperature at the peaks does not exceed -5 degrees.

For a long time, the human foot did not set foot on the mountain rocks. Only in 1913, brave climbers conquered the famous Greek peak. However, this does not mean that the Greeks did not climb the mountain at all. Later, as a result of excavations, it turned out that the inhabitants of ancient Hellas climbed low rocks and even built altars and temples there.

Mount Olympus and Ancient Greece

The history of the Olympic Range, where the highest mountains in Greece are located, is closely connected with mythological tales.

Initially, the mountain range became the abode of the Titans generated by Gaia. They were so huge that the rocks served as thrones for them. The highest peak was occupied by Kron, the mightiest of the Titans.

But then Zeus came to Greek soil, who, as you know, never tolerated competition. A battle ensued between the Titans and the Gods, the winners of which emerged new deities. Thus, Olympus, as the highest mountain in Greece, became the abode of Zeus and eleven other major gods.

By the way, the famous heights of Greece got their name for the snow-white slopes of the peaks, brightly shining in the sun. According to a common version, the toponym Olympus is formed from the Indo-European word "ulu". It has two meanings: rotate and shine. Perhaps, in ancient times, the Olympic peaks were semicircular, which connected them with "rotation", "hemisphere". As for glitter, even today it is a frequent guest of snow-covered rocks.

The ancient inhabitants believed that the Gods live at an unattainable height, where the passage is closed to mere mortals. Therefore, no one thought to climb the sheer peaks. But in order to be under the protection of the famous Gods, the Hellenes settled at the foot of the mountains. So, on the eastern slope is located ancient city Dion, Cultural Center Macedonia. The settlement is named after the almighty Zeus, to whom a majestic temple was erected here. The ruins of the building have survived to this day.

If we talk about the inhabitants of the Olympic peaks, then according to legend, 12 gods lived here. Among them was the famous blacksmith Hephaestus, who made lightning and aegis for Zeus. By special occasions demigods and heroes could climb the mountain. On the peaks, ancient bohemia led an idle life, drinking nectar and watching the deeds of mere mortals.

The significance of Olympus for modern Greece

Oddly enough, with the advent of Orthodoxy, the attitude of the Greeks towards the shrine did not change. On the contrary, now Orthodox monasteries are located on the mountain slopes: the monastery of the Holy Trinity, Kanalon and the monastery of St. Dionysius. So the Greek Olympus remains a place where religion is revered and the divine power is revered, only now it is associated with the monuments of Orthodox culture.

The modern Olympus in Greece is also a protected reserve, on the territory of which more than 1,700 plant species grow. Previously, lions were even found in these places, but they were exterminated in ancient times. Today there are roe deer, wild boars, eagles, vultures and other animals. The reserve is not so much the property of a country or a city, but of the whole world, therefore the Olympic Mountains are under the protection of the international organization UNESCO.

Where is Olympus and how to get there on your own

As already noted, the mountain range is located in the northeast of Thessaly, where its border with Macedonia is located. In ancient times, the rocks were the natural border of the regions, but today the mountain complex is completely included in the possession of Thessaly. For a better understanding, see how Mount Olympus is marked on a modern map of Greece.

There are several ways to get to the hill, which is located 90 km from Thessaloniki. Firstly, organized and individual excursions depart from the city to the mountain. Secondly, direct buses run from Thessaloniki to Litohoro (a village at the foot of the mountain). Flights depart every 1.5 hours and the cost of the trip is 9.5 euros. And finally, for an independent trip, you can rent a car or order a taxi. The Thessaloniki-Katerini route runs along the E90 highway, after which you should turn onto the E75 road and head to Litohoro.

The largest mountain in Greece remained unconquered for a long time, despite the fact that ancient Hellenes lived here. Until 1913, not a single person dared to conquer the peak of Mitikas, although the ascent to it from Litochoro is quite simple for climbers. Perhaps the ancient cult is to blame for this, according to which Mount Olympus and Greece were perceived as the home of the gods, because it was here that Zeus and his associates lived.

Today, climbing the mountain range is a popular tourist attraction. Conquering the peaks depends only on the seasons, because. in winter period only ski slopes are open. For the most part, Mount Olympus in Greece is not sheer and tourists do not need special training to climb. The only exception is Mitikas Peak, which is better to conquer with professional equipment.

Excursions to Olympus

A trip to the mountain ranges and the conquest of the heights of Mount Olympus in Greece will be an excellent addition to the cultural and beach holiday in Greece.

Climbing mountains - interesting way full of unique landscapes. An excursion to Olympus along the paths of the popular route to the peaks is safe even for beginners, because. the path is equipped with the necessary infrastructure and numerous signs that will not allow you to go astray. In addition, you can always use the services of an experienced guide who will lead the most interesting route, as well as tell local legends and history.

Climbing routes

The way to the top sometimes takes two days, so there are shelters in the mountains where you can spend the night. If desired, you can make the ascent in a day, but in this case there will not be enough time to visit local shrines and capture panoramic views of nature.

The process of climbing Mount Olympus consists of several stages:

• Litochoro - Prionia (3-3.5 hours);
• Prionia - Shelter A (3 hours);
• Shelter A - Rock (2.5 hours);
• Skala – Skolio (20 min) or Skala – Mitikas (60 min).

The beginning of the path is at the foot of Mount Olympus in the town of Litochoro. From here, the route leads to the settlement of Prionia, located at an altitude of 1100 m. This part of the path does not have to be covered on foot: Prionia is easily reached by a rented car or taxi. So you will save strength for further ascent, but, of course, you will lose in the beauty of the views and the sensations of conquering the mountain.

In Prionia there is everything you need for a tourist halt. Here you can have a bite to eat, take a shower and even stay overnight in the hospitable monastery of St. Dionysius. If time permits, it is better not to try to conquer the mountain "in one day". Mountain sunsets, clean air and natural beauty are worth extending the trip for a couple of days.

The next part of the path is aimed at reaching the mark of 2100 meters, where the shelter A (Refuge A) is located. This is Spilios Agapitos Pension, which offers travelers a hotel, a cafe and a camping area. Further, the road will lead to the top of Skala, at a height of 2886 m. Here, tourists come to a fork: the turn to the right leads to Skolio, and to the left to Mitikas. A convenient tourist route has been laid to the peak of Skolio, and the ascent to Mitikas is more difficult.

Attractions Mount Olympus

In 1961, the temple of Zeus was found. Ancient statues, a stadium, a theater and even shopping malls, coins, remains of animals sacrificed were discovered. Also found were the temple of Apollo and the tomb of Orpheus. You can also visit monastery of St. Dionysius, built by himself around the middle of the 16th century.

Since then, the monastery has changed a lot, time has not been kind to him. Reconstruction of individual buildings is still ongoing. The monastery is active, so visitors must be dressed accordingly, which is indicated on the sign at the entrance. Half an hour's walk is the cave where the saint originally lived. On the way there is a river with a cold and delicious water where swimming is prohibited.

Since 1938, the Olympus mountain range has been declared a national reserve. And in 1981, Mount Olympus was declared part of the natural heritage of the world and protected by UNESCO. In 1985, the massif was recognized as an archaeological and historical monument. The ecosystem of Olympus is represented by a huge variety of living organisms (more than 1700 species). Here you can see rare plants that are not found anywhere else, from the mountain you can enjoy an amazing view of Greece. Many tourists want to conquer the ancient abode of the gods, but it is very difficult to get to the very top.

The steep and rocky slopes of the mountain range are cut by deep gorges with mountain streams flowing through them. The lower parts of the slopes are overgrown with forests of maple, beech, chestnut, oak, and cypress. Fir and pine forests grow above. Here you can meet curious chamois and roe deer. There are many of them here. Even higher, meadows and rare thickets of shrubs are increasingly common.

At an altitude of about 2500 meters, there is practically no vegetation.

Here a good place for nesting vultures, eagles. The upper part of the massif is almost always covered with snow and shrouded in clouds.

in winter The best way to get acquainted with the Greek mountain peaks is to go to the ski track. The mountains are open for skiing from January to March. Tourists are brought to the slopes by modern lifts, named after the ancient Gods. A single visit to the ski base will cost 11 euros, and accommodation in local hotels costs 50-60 euros per day.

An excursion to Olympus means panoramic views, unique vegetation, fresh mountain air and a unique sense of pride from visiting the impregnable abode of the Gods. Fascinating journeys and conquering new peaks!

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ascent

Olympus is a center of world tourism and pilgrimage for climbers. Crystal waters and clean air enchant numerous tourists and nature lovers from different corners the globe. Especially for tourists, a safe route to conquer Olympus has been developed.

Just a few steps and civilization is left behind. Climbing Olympus begins in the small town of Litohoro, but many prefer to take a taxi or rented car along the serpentine to the village of Prionia. Thus, you can save about two hours of travel. Prionia has a car park and a restaurant. You will have to spend the night in the monastery of St. Dionysius, located nearby.

Experienced travelers are advised to spread the climbing route over two days. The first part of the journey (to the boarding house), although not difficult, is very tiring and requires some endurance. But there is an opportunity to meet and capture the pink dawn on Mount Olympus. It must be remembered that you will have to not only climb Olympus, but also descend from it. It is important to calculate your strength and not rush to go all the way in a day.

The path goes through the forest. Lianas, trees, waterfalls, mountain rivers - everything attracts the attention of the traveler. There is a beautiful view of the neighboring cliffs and valleys. On the way, unfamiliar plants come across, chamois see them off with a curious look. The trail is marked, even for an inexperienced tourist it is difficult to get lost here. It is advisable to dress warmly, but do not wrap up, because the closer to the top, the colder.

At an altitude of about 2000 meters is the shelter "Agapitos" or, as it is also called, shelter A. The shelter is a small boarding house where you can relax and prepare for the most important part of the route. The cost of an overnight stay in a shared room is 10 euros per person. They will provide you with a pillowcase and a blanket, but many travelers prefer to use their own sleeping bags. The guesthouse is open from May to October. At the disposal of travelers there are two dining rooms, open until late in the evening, and 110 beds.

Conquest of Mythikas

They leave backpacks at the shelter and move on at dawn. The journey to the top takes three hours. It is dangerous to go to Mitikas at night. Climbing equipment is optional. From the shelter there is a stony path to the Skala pass with a height of 2882 meters, then the path goes along the rocky slopes to the top of Skolio with a height of 2912 meters.

From here begins the ascent directly to the top of the highest peak of the mountain range. From here you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the meadows and valleys stretching out at the foot. Although all the trails are quite passable and provided with the necessary signs, it is advisable to take an experienced guide with you. He will not only guide you through the most interesting places, but also tells in detail about interesting facts from life Greek gods.

Mitikas has a special journal in which the conquerors of Olympus leave their autographs and greetings to their followers. It is stored in an iron box. In the shelter, tourists receive a document confirming the ascent to Olympus.

Greece is a wonderful place for a vacation, honeymoon, vacation. You can swim in the warm sea or go snorkeling. Mountain forests and gorges, as it were, invite you to take a walk, and Olympus is waiting for its new conquerors. It has been noticed that many couples, having visited Olympus once, will definitely come back here again.

In contact with

Classmates

The top of Olympus in Greece cannot but excite the imagination of all, even the most sophisticated travelers. Every year tourists come here from all over the world. What attracts all these people? Is there still a place left somewhere that it is simply impossible not to visit at least once?

This article will introduce its readers to such a stunningly interesting vacation destination at any time of the year as Greece. Olympus in this case will be considered as the main attraction of the ancient country. And this is not surprising, because it was here, according to legend, that the gods ruling the Earth once lived. How can you not visit such a place?

Greece. Olympus. general information

The 2917-meter Olympus is rightfully considered not only the highest point of the state, but also a world-famous national park, which is now visited with great pleasure by both local residents and numerous guests of the state.

The highest peak of Olympus (Greece) is located in the northeast of the historical region called Thessaly. By the way, not everyone knows that in ancient times it served as a natural border between this country and Macedonia.

It should be noted that an excursion to Olympus (Greece) suggests that the traveler will have the opportunity to see three peaks at once - Skolio, Stephanie and Mitikas. It is because of their presence that this mountain is often called the three-headed.

National park of the same name and its features

As mentioned above, Olympus is not only a snow-covered mountain peak, but also a popular natural monument of the planet. Geographically, this territory is located in the vicinity of the nomes of Pieria and Larisa-Thessaly.

The national reserve is characterized by a huge variety of biological species. On the this moment here you can find more than 1700 species of representatives of the flora, and this is about 25% of all that are found on the territory of the country. 23 of them are considered endemic, which means that they can only be found in this region.

Of the fauna, it is worth mentioning 8 species of amphibians, 32 species of mammals, 136 species of birds and 22 species of reptiles.

Is it possible to climb to the top of a state like Greece (Olympus)?

This is the question most often asked by tourists coming here. “Of course you can!”, the locals joyfully answer, who are ready to endlessly talk not only about the myths of Greece (“Olympus and its gods”, “Hercules”, “Dionysus” and others), but also about the unique places of their country.

It would not be superfluous to note that trying to climb to the very top is not worth it. Why? The fact is that today a British military radar is installed there, so the territory is considered closed to outsiders.

But in its vicinity to visit, of course, you need. Walking here, you can meet real mouflons, rare ruminants. By the way, it is this artiodactyl that now adorns the emblem of the famous Cypriot Airlines brand. Hunting them, of course, is prohibited. But it is quite possible to take some successful photographs. The main thing is to have time to catch a good shot, because the mouflon is considered a very nimble and shy animal.

Professional ascent to Olympus

Those who have the skills to conquer mountain peaks are advised to start climbing from a settlement called Litohoron. There is a specialized information center, which also provides mountain equipment rental services.

It is recommended to take a taxi to the point of Prionia, although the most desperate can go on their own, because there is still a walking route. At an altitude of 1100 meters, a parking lot and modern latrines have been built, in which it is even possible to take a shower. By the way, you can spend the night in the monastery of St. Dionysius, located next door.

From Prioni, travelers head to Shelter A, located at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level. There is also a kind of recreation area, consisting of a hotel and a more budget camping. From here you can easily climb the Rock or go further to other mountain shelters. From the Rock, as a rule, they get to Skolio and Mitikas. By the way, it is worth paying attention to one important point. It is recommended not to climb the last of the above peaks in bad weather or for those who do not have special training.

local mythology

The myths of Ancient Greece, in which Olympus occupies one of the main places, are known to many. Perhaps now even the average student will be able to remember a few of them.

This peak is known as the residence of the main ones. Legends say that it was here that the Cyclopes, liberated by Zeus from realms of the dead built majestic palaces. In gratitude, they also rewarded him with power over lightning and thunder.

In general, Greece (Olympus in particular) is often associated with the name who, in his workshop, made decorations for all the aforementioned palaces. By the way, the entrance to his monastery was carried out through special gates, securely guarded less significant gods, which are not included in the category of the main ones.

Love in the legends of Ancient Hellas

Perhaps not a single myth about Olympus (Ancient Greece) and its environs is complete without mentioning such a sublime feeling as love.

We all know about the beautiful Aphrodite, whose beauty was truly unearthly. She was born from the blood of the titan Uranus mixed with sea foam. That is why, apparently, this goddess gained fame as an insidious and tough woman. According to legend, Aphrodite married Hephaestus, but the marriage was of little interest to the beauty. She preferred to spend most of her time on Olympus or traveling the world, falling desperately in love and falling in love with herself.

Aphrodite's most famous hobby was Ares. It was he who managed to arouse jealousy in Hephaestus, and he, without hesitation, forged a special net that caught lovers during one of the meetings. Burning with shame, Aphrodite fled to the island of Crete, subsequently giving birth to two sons there -

The favorite place of the goddess was the city of Paphos, built just in the place where she emerged from the sea foam. In ancient Greece, there was also a temple built in her honor. Curious to note interesting fact. According to local traditions, it was believed that if a girl who visited this place entered into a casual relationship in its vicinity, she would be guaranteed a lifetime blessing of the goddess.

Unfortunately, this temple was not destined to survive to this day. But locals believe that a heart-shaped pebble found while walking along the coast will give the lucky one a huge and only love for life.

Ski holidays on Olympus

Olympus attracts many travelers with the opportunity to spend time doing what they love. The so-called high season for skiers and snowboarders comes here from about January to March.

Each visitor will have a unique opportunity to stay in one of the small but very comfortable hotels, use a modern lift for a very modest fee and ride down the snowy slope. Equipment rental points will not disappoint even the most seasoned fans of these sports.

Most tourists note the high level of service in all, even the most modest hotels. And as an added bonus, absolutely from every balcony you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains.

What to do in the vicinity of Olympus?

In fact, none of those who came here on vacation have yet complained of boredom and the lack of opportunities for an interesting pastime.

In addition to walking in the fresh air and surrounded by unique landscapes, it is recommended to take courage and climb the Mitikas peak. Where else can you leave your message in a special iron box?

If you are just going to comprehend the art of conquering the snowy slopes, Olympus is just the place where you should go in the first place. Local instructors will be happy to teach you and your kids the basic tricks of this hobby.

Those who are lucky enough to be in the vicinity of Olympus in the warm season are advised to go with the locals for a regular walk in the mountains. Experienced guides are happy to tell their guests about the local flora and fauna, acquaint them with legends and myths, teach them how to navigate using a map and compass, and, finally, organize an amazing outdoor lunch, consisting mainly of dishes and drinks of local cuisine.

Greece has long been famous for its mountains. True, not so much because of the unprecedented heights, but because of the legends associated with them. Remember at least Olympus - the sacred mountain in ancient Greek mythology where, according to legend, Zeus himself lived. For this reason, the Greek gods are often referred to as the Olympians. The most interesting thing is that Olympus is the highest Greek mountain.

Olympus

Currently, Olympus is a mythological and historical symbol, as well as a protected natural monument. The reserve, located near the mountain, is interesting in that a huge number of plants are represented on its territory - more than 1,700 species, but animals are dozens of times less.

You can easily climb Olympus on your own. Usually the ascent starts from the city of Litochoron, where the information center for climbers is located. Here you can also take a taxi and get to the point of Prionia, which is located at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level. There is a restaurant, toilet, parking. There is no hotel, but you can spend the night in the monastery of St. Dionysius, which is located nearby. Then on foot you can reach the so-called Shelter A, located at an altitude of 2100 meters. From here you can get to other shelters and to the top.

The highest peak of Olympus is Mitikas, its height is 2917 meters. There are others, but they are somewhat lower.

Zmolikas

The second place is occupied by Mount Zmolikas. It is located in the northwest of Greece. The height of the largest peak reaches 2638 meters. The length of the mountain is, according to various estimates, from 15 to 20 km, and the width is about 10 km.

Near the mountain there are two nature reserves at once, and on one of the slopes you can find the lake Drakolimni of the alpine type.

nije

Bronze goes to Mount Nidzhe, which is located on the border of Greece and Macedonia. The most high point- Peak Kaimakchalan, which is located at 2521 m above sea level. Since the peak is quite popular, it is often called the mountain itself.

Nije is considered a very old mountain, older than many others in the country. It is very rich in animal species, there are not so many plants.