NOMOS FTHIOTIDAS

LAMIA

Population (according to 2021 census): 47.529

Photo source: https://www.travel.gr/

History

Lamia: From Antiquity to the Present

The Turbulent History of Lamia: From the Lamian War to Zitouni and Liberation

Ο Αδριάντας του Αθανάσιου Διάκου στην ομώνυμη Πλατεία

-The history of Lamia is multi-faceted and inextricably linked to its geographical position as a strategic passageway. -Archaeological research at neighboring sites (Lianokladi, Fteri, Amouri) shows that the Spercheios River valley has been inhabited since the 5th millennium BC (Neolithic Era). The area was described by Homer as "erivolos" (with rich soil). -The city of Lamia is first mentioned in writing in 426 BC, following a major earthquake. It was built on a strategic site, on the southern foothills of Mount Othrys, and had a role in controlling the Spercheios valley and the passage to Thessaly. The first sections of the fortification on the Acropolis date back to the end of the 5th century BC. -The Lamian War (323 BC) is the most famous historical event of antiquity associated with Lamia. After the death of Alexander the Great, the Athenians and other Greek cities revolted against Macedonian domination. The conflict took place mainly around the city, where the Macedonian army of Antipater was besieged. The war ended with the defeat of the Greeks and essentially marked the definitive prevalence of Macedonian power in central Greece. -The city was destroyed by the Romans in 190 BC and was permanently incorporated into the Roman Empire in 146 BC. -During the Byzantine Era, the city was renamed twice. First, around 19 AD, it was briefly named Sevasti, in honor of a Roman Emperor. Later, at an unknown time, it was renamed Zitouni (or Zitounion, Zitonion, Situn). This name likely has either a Turkish (or Arabic) origin (from Zeitun, which translates to olive) or a Slavic origin (from sitonion, the grain-producing region). It appears for the first time in written sources in 869 AD (at the 8th Ecumenical Council). -Zitouni was an important commercial and administrative center, while the city's Castle was a key fortress. During the Frankokratia (after 1204), the city came under the rule of Frankish lords and later Catalans (El Sito). -During the Ottoman period, Zitouni became the seat of a kadi (judge) and a mufti, a fact that underscores its importance as a center of administration and trade in the Ottoman era. -The wider region of Eastern Central Greece, including the area of Lamia, rose up in the third ten-day period of March 1821. In general, the contribution of the area to the Revolution of 1821 is well-known. -Lamia is inextricably linked to the sacrifice of Athanasios Diakos. After the Battle of Alamana (April 23, 1821), Diakos was captured and taken to Zitouni (Lamia), where he was executed in a horrific manner (it is reported he was impaled). -The city was permanently liberated in 1832 and with the establishment of the modern Greek state, it regained its ancient name, Lamia, and was designated the capital of Phthiotis. -Lamia emerged as the most prosperous city of Roumeli and an important commercial and administrative center. The region was the scene of significant events during the Occupation, with resistance centers in the surrounding mountains (Oiti, Othrys) and the actions of leading figures such as Aris Velouchiotis. Lamia was liberated on October 18, 1944.

Traditions

Customs and Traditions of Lamia and Fthiotida

Feasts, Customs and Gastronomy in Fthiotida: From the Lazarines to Haskari

-The urban tradition of Lamia focuses mainly on the festive cycle and gastronomy. The main annual event is the Festival of Agios Loukas (Saint Luke) on October 18th, where the celebration of the patron saint is combined with a large and historic trade fair in the city center, preserving its commercial identity. During the Carnival season, the city comes alive with carnival events and parades, while the custom of "Haskari" (or Haskas) is maintained in homes and clubs. In the realm of gastronomy, Lamia is famous for its wonderful sweets, with Galaktoboureko and Baklava holding a special place. -The wider region of Fthiotida (Roumeli) maintains a strong agro-pastoral and folkloric character. The musical tradition is based on the clarinet, accompanying the brave dances of the Klephts, such as the Tsamikos and the circular Kangeli. In the cycle of customs, the Lazarines stand out; these are girls who sing the "Lazarika" (Lazarus songs) in the villages on Lazarus Saturday, as well as the particular Easter customs of Ypati (such as that of Panagia i Zoodochos Pigi). In the summers, villages like Moschochori and Gorgopotamos celebrate with lively festivals (panigiria). Finally, the region is renowned for its gastronomy, with Roumeli-style grilled meats (Kontosouvli with zigouri, Kokoretsi) and the exquisite agricultural products (olive oil, peanuts) from the fertile Spercheios River valley.

Local products

The Gastronomic Wealth of Roumeli

From Kontosouvli and Feta P.D.O. to Syrup Pastries: The Authentic Gastronomy of Fthiotida

-Fthiotida, as a central and fertile land, possesses a rich and authentic gastronomic identity based on both livestock farming and agricultural production. -Fthiotida excels in the livestock sector, offering select dairy and meat products. In cheeses, Feta P.D.O. (aged in oak barrels) and the distinct, creamy Tiri Domokou P.D.O. dominate. In gastronomy, Roumeli-style grilled meats are the ultimate speciality, with key dishes including local lamb and kid, juicy Kontosouvli, and elaborate offal dishes, such as Kokoretsi and Splinantero. Finally, local producers make quality sausages with leek and orange, highlighting the richness of the region's pastoral tradition. -The fertile land of Fthiotida, particularly in the Spercheios River valley and coastal areas, yields a multitude of agricultural products with a Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.). In olive products, the table olive Konservolia Atalantis P.D.O. stands out, while among nuts, the Shelled Pistachio of Fthiotida P.D.O. (mainly in Molos and Lokrida) takes center stage. The region is also famous for its Spercheios Kiwi P.D.O., for pulses like Fakes Vouziou (Vouzii lentils), along with Domokos apples and varieties of rice. -In the realm of sweets and drinks, Fthiotida offers traditional flavours with history. The pastry-making of Lamia is widely known for its syrup-soaked pastries, with its flagship creations being the famous Galaktoboureko and Baklava with handmade filo pastry. The gastronomic experience is complemented by traditional kourambiedes cookies and handmade pasta, such as hylopites (egg pasta) and trahanas. For drinks, local vineyards cultivate varieties like Malagouzia and Xinomavro, while the aromatic tsipouro and the rich honey from Mount Oiti complete the picture of the region's taste treasures.

Tourism

From the Castle of Lamia to Thermopylae: The Historical and Natural Sights of Fthiotida

History, Nature, and Wellness in Fthiotida

-Lamia and the wider region of Fthiotida offer a rich combination of historical, cultural, and natural destinations, as they are located at the crossroads of Greece. -The Lamia Castle (Acrolamia) is the most important landmark. The medieval castle, built on the hilltop, offers a panoramic view of the Spercheios River valley, the Malian Gulf, and the surrounding mountains (Oiti, Othrys). It houses the Archaeological Museum of Lamia. -The Archaeological Museum of Lamia, housed in the city's historic castle, presents the cultural journey of the region from the Neolithic era to Byzantine times. Its collections include tools, figurines, Mycenaean finds, funerary stelae, statues, Roman mosaics, and Byzantine objects, highlighting the daily life, religion, and art of the inhabitants. -The central squares (Parkou, Diakou, Eleftherias, Laou) form the core of social life. In Diakou Square stands the statue of the hero Athanasios Diakos, while in Laou Square you can find the statue of Aris Velouchiotis and the Cenotaph of Athanasios Diakos. Also, the Hill of Agios Loukas offers another beautiful viewpoint of the city, accessible by picturesque steps from Laou Square. -Besides the Archaeological Museum, the city is home to the Municipal Art Gallery "Alekos Kontopoulos" and the Folklore Museum of Fthiotida (inside the Folklore Museum, exhibits of local tradition are displayed). -The wider region of Fthiotida is a melting pot of tourist experiences, offering excursions that combine history, nature, and wellness. For history enthusiasts, Thermopylae and the Bridge of Gorgopotamos are key sites, with Thermopylae also offering free thermal springs. In the realm of thermal spa tourism, the seaside spa town of Kammena Vourla and the Loutra Ypatis (Baths of Ypati), famous for their therapeutic properties, also stand out. Finally, mountainous Fthiotida, centered around the National Park of Mount Oiti and the historic town of Ypati, invites visitors to engage in nature activities, hiking, and visits to cultural monuments such as the Byzantine Museum.