NOMOS FOKIDAS

ITEA FOKIDAS

Population (according to 2021 census): 4.546

Photo source: https://www.newsbeast.gr/travel/destinations/arthro/3014157/itea-stin-agkalia-tou-korinthiakou

History

Itea: A Historical Retrospective

The Historical course of Itea, from its foundation until today

-Itea is a beautiful coastal city in Phocis, which is a significant tourist destination and the largest port in the prefecture. -The city of Itea was officially founded by a decree of the first Governor of Greece, Ioannis Kapodistrias, on August 13, 1830. As the port of Amfissa, the settlement began to develop substantially from 1855 onwards, when it was settled by inhabitants from Amfissa, the surrounding villages, and Souliotes. The city's urban plan, based on the Hippodamian system (rectangular grid), was designed by the engineer Andreas Kalandros. -Prior to the foundation of Itea, the settlement of "Skala Salona" existed in the same location, which consisted of a wooden pier, a customs house, huts, and warehouses. At the end of the Ottoman rule, this settlement belonged to the widow of Omer Aga. -A pivotal event of the Greek War of Independence took place in the Gulf of Itea on September 17, 1827. This was the Battle of Skala Salona (Agali), where the English Philhellene captain Frank Abney Hastings, leading a Greco-British squadron with the steamship "Karteria", managed to destroy a Turco-Egyptian fleet. This victory was of crucial importance, as it gave the Greek revolutionaries a "breathing space" and led to the restoration of Greek control in the Gulf of Corinth. It was also one of the main reasons that accelerated the Battle of Navarino on October 20, 1827. -During the First World War, Itea was used as a base by the Entente (Allied) powers, and the remnants from this period are the "French Moles" (breakwaters), which are still preserved. -Itea continued to develop thanks to the roadworks and the railway that connected it to Athens and Patras. During the Second World War, the city suffered damage from bombings, while in the post-war period it emerged as a tourist destination due to its sea and its proximity to Delphi.

Traditions

The Traditions and Customs of Itea

The Cultural Identity of Itea

-Although the city does not have a long-standing folklore tradition with distinct, unique customs of its own due to its recent foundation, its heritage is inextricably linked to the culture and customs of the wider region of Phocis and Roumeli. -The ceremony of the Great Blessing of the Waters (Megas Agiasmos), with the immersion of the Holy Cross, is one of the most important and impressive events in Itea. It takes place every year in the city's harbor, attracting a multitude of believers. -Cultural associations are active in the city, with the primary aim of preserving and promoting local traditions. Through these associations, traditional dances from Roumeli and the rest of Greece are taught, and events are organized to disseminate our folk heritage. -Itea actively participates in the regional festivals (panigyria), which, although not exclusively its own customs, are an integral part of its social life. Characteristic is the festival of the Annunciation (Evangelismos), the patron saint of the city, celebrated on March 25th. -Itea, as a city of Phocis, has adopted the traditional dances and music of Roumeli. Dances such as the Kangelotos, the Tsamikos, the Syrtos, and the Kalamatianos, accompanied by traditional instruments like the clarino (clarinet) and the violin, are a fundamental element of local festivals and events. -The residents of Itea participate in the Carnival events of the wider area, such as the famous "Flour Smudges" (Alevromoutzouromata) in the neighboring Galaxidi, which is one of the most unique and well-known customs of the Greek Carnival.

Local products

Itea: Flavors and Products of Phocis

The Local Gastronomy of Itea

-Itea, as the port of Amfissa, has an inseparable connection with the rich agricultural production of Phocis, offering a variety of traditional products that highlight the region's gastronomy. -The Amfissa Olive Grove, which surrounds Itea, produces the famous Amfissa olives, which have received Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) certification. -A characteristic product of the area, made from the famous Amfissa olives, is Olive Paste (Paté Eliás). It is a rich-flavored spread, ideal as an appetizer or side. -From the mountains of Phocis (Giona, Parnassos) come excellent dairy products and cheeses. The most well-known is Formaela, a traditional cheese with a strong, spicy flavor. -The variety of the region's flora favors the production of different kinds of honey, such as thyme, pine, and fir honey, all with a rich aroma and high quality. -Itea, as a coastal city with a significant port, is renowned for its fresh fish and seafood, which are caught daily in the Corinthian Gulf. Visitors can enjoy them in various restaurants in the city.

Tourism

Itea: Tourist Destinations and Sights

Exploring Itea and the Surrounding Area

-Itea is an excellent tourist destination that combines mountain and sea, while also being a pivotal point for exploring the wider region of Phocis. -The Poseidon Coast is ideal for walks with a view of the Corinthian Gulf. Itea also has a modern marina, ideal for mooring boats. -From this lush green hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, the Gulf of Itea, and the surrounding islets. -In the Gulf of Itea lie the picturesque islets of Agios Georgios, Ai Thanasis, Agios Dimitrios, and Molemeno, which you can visit by boat. -At the Syros-Kastro location, the ruins of the ancient city of Medeon are preserved, while the ancient Baptistery and the "Lykotrypa" (Wolf's Hole) are also visitable. -Itea serves as a gateway for exploring the wider area of the Phocis region. Delphi, the "Navel of the Earth," with its famous archaeological site and museum, is only 17 km away. Galaxidi, the picturesque maritime town that feels like an island, is about a 15-20 minute drive away. Amfissa, the capital of the Phocis region, known for its historic castle, is 13 km away.