Ellinikon brings together a distinctive topographical description and a specific historic structure: the village lies on three small hills at an elevation of 700 metres, and the cistern is linked to the course of an aqueduct. Its byname, “Trilofo” (“Three Hills”), sums up the landscape. This offers two different points of interest when choosing a destination: the layout of the village and its water infrastructure.
Three Hills as the Village’s Defining Feature
“Trilofo” means “Three Hills” and refers to the terrain that defines Ellinikon. The additional information that it stands at an elevation of 700 metres complements the byname with a measurable detail about the village. Together, they form a clear landscape profile based on the number of hills and the elevation, rather than a merely general description. The name and the elevation serve different purposes: the byname sums up the terrain in a memorable way, while the elevation provides a specific detail about the village. This may matter to travellers choosing a destination who want to consider a place’s topography as well as its cultural heritage.
Cistern and Aqueduct
The cistern was opened on 20 February 1955 and served the village. The course of the aqueduct was also altered so that it passed through the cistern. The structure is therefore not merely located beside an aqueduct, but is incorporated into its altered course. Two facts can be distinguished in the village’s history: the date marks the opening of the cistern, while the aqueduct’s course explains its connection to the water supply. This distinction makes the historical context tangible: one detail dates the cistern, while the other describes the structural relationship between it and the aqueduct.
Construction and Benefactor
An earthen embankment faced with stone forms part of the cistern, leaving only its front visible. A marble plaque above the entrance bears the benefactor’s name. These two details describe different aspects of the structure: the wall explains its visible form, while the plaque records the benefactor by name. This makes it possible to understand the cistern not only in terms of its role in the water infrastructure, but also through its construction and the reference to its benefactor. Travellers interested in cultural history when choosing a destination will find a specific point of interest here, bringing together technical function, design and the benefactor’s connection.
Archaeology Nearby
Another historical point of interest lies nearby: the French Archaeological School conducted excavations at Ancient Gortys in 1954–55. This adds an archaeological site in the surrounding area to Ellinikon’s water infrastructure. The years refer to the excavations; 20 February 1955, by contrast, is the date the cistern opened. This distinction is useful when choosing a destination: those more interested in historic water infrastructure will find it in Ellinikon’s cistern, while those looking at archaeological work can visit nearby Ancient Gortys.
Discover more destinations: KarĂtaina, Pragmateftis, Nymfasia, Agios Andreas, Orini Meligou, Leptini, Manthirea, Leonidio
For the broader travel overview: Arcadia.
