NOMOS KOZANIS

SERVIA

Population (according to 2021 census): 6.123

Photo source: https://servia.gov.gr/

History

The History of Servia and Velventos: A Historical Walk Through the Two Strategic Centers of Kozani

From the Fortress of Servia to the Agricultural Valley of Velventos: Two Cities, One History

-The history of Servia is closely connected to its strategic position as a fortress. The city's name originates from the Latin verb "servo" which means "to guard" or "to observe", indicating its role as a fortress controlling the passage between Western Macedonia and Thessaly. -The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological finds such as tombs and pottery confirming the presence of people. During the Roman era, the ancient city of Phylakae was located in the area, which was renamed Servia by the Romans. -The Byzantine Period was the time of Servia's greatest prosperity. The imposing castle was built between the 6th and 7th century AD, and the city developed into an important military and religious center. In the late 10th century, the castle was captured by Tsar Samuel, but was recaptured by Basil II in 1001. During the 13th century, it came under the rule of the Despotate of Epirus and later the Empire of Nicaea. -After the conquest by the Ottomans in 1393, the castle was gradually abandoned. However, the city continued to be an important commercial and administrative center. In fact, in the late 19th century, Servia became the seat of the autonomous Sanjak (Prefecture) of Servia. -Servia was liberated during the Balkan Wars, after the Battle of Sarantaporo, on October 10, 1912. -The history of Velventos is closely linked to the rich agricultural valley of Aliakmonas and its spiritual tradition. -The area was inhabited as early as prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds at sites such as "Paliochora". The settlement's name is believed by some scholars to derive from the Latin phrase "Bene Ventum" ("Welcome" or "fertile land"), while another version connects it to the ancient Thracian deity Bendo. -During the Byzantine times, the area experienced development, which is documented by the existence of many Byzantine churches and monasteries that are preserved to this day. These monuments and their frescoes constitute important testimonies of the religious and artistic life of the era. -During the Ottoman rule, Velventos emerged as a center of economic and spiritual flourishing, as agricultural production was particularly significant. Spiritual life developed around the churches and monasteries, which played a decisive role in the preservation of the Greek identity. -With its incorporation into the Greek state in 1912, Velventos continued its agricultural development, while during World War II and the Greek Civil War, the area suffered significant losses of life. Today, it remains a vibrant center with a rich cultural tradition.

Traditions

Customs and Traditions: Servia and Velventos Live to the Rhythms of the Land and Tradition

The Folklore of Servia-Velventos: A Journey through the Customs, Feasts, and Dances of the Region

-Tradition in the Servia-Velventos area is rich and vibrant, with many customs and festivities preserved to this day. A significant part of their cultural identity (and more) are the religious feasts, which, beyond their function, are places of social gathering, with music, dance, and local delicacies. -The best-known festival in the city of Servia is the Carnival, which takes place during the Apokries (Lent/Mardi Gras) period. The events include parades of floats and masquerades, as well as traditional feasts that gather large crowds. -Every year on May 21st, the feast day of Saints Constantine and Helen, a panigiri (local fair/feast) is organized in honor of the city's patrons, featuring music and dance. -A unique custom in the region of Velventos is the Loukanikofagia (Sausage Eating), which is revived every year on January 18th, the feast day of Saint Athanasius. After the Divine Liturgy, residents gather at the chapel of Saint Athanasius, where they grill traditional sausages and celebrate with wine and music. -Velventos has a particularly rich dance tradition. Well-known are the dances "Tou Ai-Giorgiou" (of St. George) and the "Tranos Horos" (Great Dance), which used to be danced in specific threshing floors of the area during major holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Apokries. -Given the large peach production in the area, the Peach Festival is organized every summer in honor of the local product. The festival includes music events, tastings, and performances. -In the settlement of Agia Kyriaki, as well as in other villages, the custom of the Lazarines is revived on Lazarus Saturday, where women dressed in traditional costumes sing the Lazarika songs. In the same settlement, another distinct and rare custom is revived, which demonstrates a characteristic example of the folklore of Velventos, combining ancient belief with Christian tradition: the "Vilvita". It is revived every year on Cheesefare Sunday (the last Sunday before Lent/Apokries) and is a custom associated with the fertility of the earth and eueteria (a good year, a year with a good harvest).

Local products

The Land of Flavors: The Agricultural Products that Highlight the Servia-Velventos Area

From Velventos Cherries to Servia's Tsipouro: Flavors and Aromas of a Fertile Land

-The land in the Servia-Velventos area is particularly fertile, thanks to the microclimate and the proximity to Lake Polyfytos. This results in the production of excellent quality agricultural products that form the basis of the local economy and tradition. -Velventos cherries are the most famous product of the region. Their cultivation began in the 1950s, and today they are widely known in Greece and abroad for their quality and flavor. They are recognized as a product with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), which certifies their quality and origin. -Peach and nectarine trees cover large areas in the Velventos region. Their production is significant, and these fruits are known for their wonderful taste and intense aroma. They are widely used for consumption as fresh fruit, as well as for the production of juices and spoon sweets. The peaches are particularly well-known throughout Greece, as evidenced by their recognition with PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certification. They are produced by the Velventos Agricultural Cooperative. -Wine production and tsipouro (pomace brandy) production are flourishing in the Servia-Velventos area, a testament to the fertile land. Velventos tsipouro has a long tradition in the region, to the extent that it is considered that almost every family produced its own. -Tsipouro is produced from the grape marc (the remnants of winemaking), and the distillation takes place in special stills (ambykes). Velventos tsipouro is famous for its purity and strong flavor. Commercial production began systematically in recent decades, while the traditional distilleries (kazania) still constitute an integral part of the local culture. -The region has developed wine production in recent years, with local producers making excellent quality wines. The vineyards are cultivated on slopes with an ideal climate for the ripening of the grapes. Wines are produced from various varieties, both indigenous and international, such as Xinomavro and Moschato (Muscat), Merlot, and Syrah.

Tourism

Servia and Velventos: From the Byzantine Castle-City to the Magical Gorge

Nature and History: The Unique Sights of the Servia-Velventos Area

Η Υψηλή Γέφυρα Σερβίων, η μεγαλύτερη της Βορείου Ελλάδος

-A natural landscape that, in many respects, constitutes a significant factor for both regions (Servia-Velventos) is the artificial Lake Polyfytos. It was created in 1973 following the construction of the namesake dam on the Aliakmonas River, which stands at a height of 112 meters and was built by the Public Power Corporation (PPC/DEH) for the purpose of electricity production. -It covers an area of 74 square kilometers, making it one of the largest artificial lakes in Greece. The largest part of its surface (about 70%) is located within the Municipality of Servia. It is crossed by two structures: the High Bridge of Servia and the smaller Bridge of Rymnio. -The High Bridge of Servia is the main crossing to access the city of Servia and, simultaneously, one of the most recognizable sights in the area. Its construction was completed in 1975, parallel to the creation of the lake. It has a length of 1,372 meters and is the second-longest bridge in Greece. -Although it belongs to PPC/DEH, it has been granted to the residents of the surrounding areas for fishing and eco-tourism exploitation. Recently, a modern floating harbor was also created with the aim of developing water sports and fishing activities. -The Byzantine Castle-City of Servia, also known as the Servia Castle, is one of the most important fortification complexes in the region, built in a strategic position between two gorges, above the modern city of Servia. The name "Servia" comes from the Latin verb servo, meaning "to guard, to observe," reflecting its historical role as a guardian of the passage from Macedonia to Thessaly. -The castle was built between the 6th and 7th century AD, during the reigns of Justinian or Heraclius, and reached its greatest peak from the 10th to the 13th century. -The castle-city was divided into three levels of walls, which ensured maximum protection in case of a siege, while also reflecting the social stratification of the era. The levels were divided as follows: -Lower City: Covered 75 stremmata (7.5 hectares) and included the residences of farmers and laborers. -Upper City: Covered 20 stremmata (2 hectares) and was where the middle class and officials resided. -Acropolis: Located at the highest point, covered 2.5 stremmata (0.25 hectares) and was the residence of the military commander. -It is often referred to as the "Mystras of Macedonia" due to its similarity to the namesake castle-city. -One of the most impressive natural landscapes in the Velventos area is the Gorge of Skepasmeno (Covered Gorge). It is a beautiful, lush green gorge, ideal for nature lovers and hikers. -Its name, "Skepasmeno" (Covered), comes from the dense and tall plane trees that cover the river and the path, offering a sense of coolness and mystery. -The Skepasmeno Gorge is a small natural paradise, offering a unique opportunity for relaxation and contact with nature. The path is well-formed and easy, follows the riverbed, and is accessible to most hikers. The hike lasts approximately 30-40 minutes (to reach the end). Along the route, you will encounter small waterfalls and picturesque ponds, creating an enchanting landscape. The chapel of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), which is integrated into a cave, is also located in the gorge. -According to tradition, the gorge was a refuge for the residents of Velventos during the Ottoman rule, which explains the existence of the ecclesiastical cave. It is also said that the name comes from a myth where someone, trying to cross it, lost their way and was "covered" by the gorge's vegetation.