NOMOS IOANNINON

METSOVO

Population (according to 2021 census): 2.337

History

Metsovo: History, Privileged Status, and the Great National Benefactors

The Dynamic History of Metsovo: Autonomy, Privileges, and the Legacy of the Great Donors

Η ιστορική Πινακοθήκη Αβέρωφ

-Metsovo is a beautiful, mountainous town in Epirus, built on the slopes of the Pindus mountain range. It is famous for its rich history, tradition, national benefactors, and unique traditional products. -During the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, the first reference to Metsovo is made in 1380 AD. During the Ottoman conquest of Epirus in 1430 AD, Metsovo acquired significant privileges from Sultan Murad II. These privileges were granted as a reward for the service of the Metsovites as "derbentsis" (guardians of the mountain passes), ensuring the safe passage of troops and trade caravans. -These privileges were renewed in 1659 by Sultan Mehmed IV. According to them, Metsovo and the surrounding villages (Anilio, Votonosi, Malakasi, Milia, Anthochori) constituted an "autonomous democratic state" within the Ottoman Empire. They were exempted from most taxes and were governed by local officials. This status contributed to the impressive economic and demographic development of the area, as many residents from neighboring regions settled in Metsovo. -These privileges were temporarily abolished by Ali Pasha of Ioannina around 1795, a fact that led many Metsovites to emigrate to cities abroad. In 1854, Metsovo suffered a great destruction by the Turkish troops of Avdi Pasha, an event known as the "Destruction of Grivas" (Chalasmos tou Griva). The town was finally liberated on October 31, 1912, during the Balkan Wars. -Some of the most important national benefactors originate from Metsovo, offering vast amounts for education, culture, and development, not only of their hometown but also of the whole of Greece. -Michael Tositsas (1787-1856) was a prominent merchant and banker in Alexandria, Egypt, and became an advisor to Muhammad Ali. He bequeathed a huge fortune for the establishment of educational and charitable institutions. -George Averoff (1815-1899) was one of the greatest national benefactors. He moved to Cairo and became the largest merchant in Egypt. He funded the restoration of the Panathenaic Stadium, the construction of the Hellenic Army Academy (Scholi Evelpidon), the National Technical University of Athens (N.T.U.A. - Ethniko Metsovio Polytechneio), and the battleship "Georgios Averof". -Nikolaos Stournaras (1806-1853) was a businessman who lived and worked mainly in Alexandria. In his will, he left his fortune for the establishment and operation of the National Technical University of Athens.

Traditions

Metsovo: The Living Vlach Tradition of Epirus – Language, Arts, and Dance

Metsovo: Expressions of the Vlach Soul – From the Metsovian Dance to the Art of the Loom

Διαδρομή με φόντο την Κεντρική Πλατεία Μετσόβου

-Metsovo is one of the most important Vlach communities in Greece. The Vlachs, or Aromanians, are an indigenous Balkan group with a Latin-derived language and a rich tradition. This tradition is expressed through language, customs, arts, and way of life. -The Vlach language, known as "Aromanian," belongs to the eastern group of the Romance languages. Although today it's mainly spoken by the older generations, it remains a fundamental element of the cultural identity of the Metsovites. -The traditional festivals of Metsovo, such as Easter and the Assumption of Mary (Dekapentavgoustos), are celebrated with particular splendor. During these days, residents wear their traditional costumes, dance the local dances, and participate in communal feasts. -Art in Metsovo is an integral part of daily life. The area is renowned for the high quality and expertise of its craftsmen. -Wood carving has a long history in Metsovo. Artisans create elaborate objects, from furniture and icons to decorative utensils, primarily using beech and walnut wood. -Weaving is another art that flourishes in Metsovo. Women traditionally wove rugs, blankets, carpets, bags, and tapestries on the loom with colorful geometric patterns. -Music and dance are a vibrant part of Metsovo's tradition. The most famous dance is the Metsovitikos (Metsovian Dance), a slow, ritualistic circular dance that requires great skill. Other traditional dances of the area include the Tsamiko, the Pogonissios, the Peratikos, and the Sygkathistos. The traditional instruments accompanying the dances and songs are the clarinet, the violin, the lute, and the def (tambourine).

Local products

Metsovo's Gastronomy: Metsovone, Katogi Averoff, and the Wealth of Traditional Products

The Unique Traditional Products of Metsovo: Cheeses, Wines, and the Legacy of the Tositsas Foundation

-Metsovo stands out for its traditional products which are an integral part of its local identity, making it a distinctive destination. -Cheeses are the spearhead of Metsovo's gastronomy. Cheesemaking in the area has a long history, with recipes passed down through generations. The Tositsas Foundation played a pivotal role in the revival and development of cheesemaking in the region. -The most famous product of Metsovo is Metsovone, a semi-hard, smoked cheese made from cow's milk, or a mixture of cow's milk with a small amount of sheep's or goat's milk. Its production process is unique and includes aging and natural smoking over flames from vine shoots, cedars, pines, and other aromatic plants, which gives it its distinct aroma and flavor. It is a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product. -Metsovella is a hard cheese with a slightly spicy flavor, produced from cow's milk. Its name comes from the fact that the Metsovites made cheeses with the milk (vella) remaining from the cows. -Besides the above, other cheeses are produced in Metsovo, such as Graviera, Piperato, and Parmesan. The Tositsas Foundation Dairy continues the tradition, using local milk and old techniques. -Winemaking in Metsovo has developed significantly in recent years, thanks to the initiative of Evangelos Averoff who, in 1960, planted the first vineyard with the Cabernet Sauvignon variety at such a high altitude, on the vineyards of Katogi Averoff. -Katogi Averoff is one of the most famous wineries in Greece, with a significant historical course. The winery is open to visitors and offers a unique experience of touring the production areas, the old cellars, and wine tasting. -The vineyards of Katogi Averoff are located at an altitude of up to 1,000 meters, which affects the quality and aroma of the grapes. -The winery produces a wide variety of wines, mainly from the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah varieties. -In addition to cheeses and wines, local production includes other products such as cured meats—livestock products from the area are used to produce excellent cured meats, such as Metsovo sausages; honey from the flowers and herbs of the Pindus; and traditional pasta, such as chilopites and trahanas. Complementary to the consumable products, handmade weavings and wood carvings reveal the creativity and passion of the Metsovites.

Tourism

Metsovo's Sights and Experiences: From the Averoff Gallery to the Ski Centers

The Metsovo Experience: Cultural Wealth and Nature Activities in the Pindus

-Metsovo is not just a mountainous settlement, but a complete destination, offering a variety of experiences that make it an ideal choice for different types of travelers, all year round. -The E. Averoff Art Gallery houses a remarkable collection of works by Greek painters of the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as a significant collection of sculptures and engravings. The museum, built in 1985, is an important cultural landmark. -Housed in the restored mansion of the Tositsas family, the Folklore Museum of Metsovo offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and culture of a wealthy Metsovian family of the past. Its exhibits include traditional costumes, furniture, weapons, and tools. -The Tsanakas Folklore Museum focuses on Vlach art and the history of Metsovo's folklore. It contains rich photographic material and historical archives related to the region. -The Averoff Garden is a unique park that functions as a microcosm of the Pindus nature. It is an ideal place for a walk and for admiring the different species of trees that grow in the area. -The Anthochori Museum of Hydropower is an outdoor museum located in the nearby village of Anthochori, where restored watermills, fulling mills (mantania), and sawmills are exhibited, highlighting the industrial history of the region. -Metsovo is a popular winter destination with three nearby ski centers: Anilio, Karakoli, and Politsies. They offer a variety of slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers. -The area is crossed by many hiking trails, including the famous European Long-Distance Path E6. You can hike to enjoy the dense forests and the magnificent mountain views. A well-known route is the "Ursa Trail," a circular route of about 40 kilometers. -The Artificial Lake of Aoos Springs (Techniti Limni Pigon Aoou) is located about 15 kilometers from Metsovo and is a beautiful spot, ideal for hiking, cycling, and picnics. The lake and the surrounding landscape offer a serene and picturesque environment.