Lanes, village square and Kalderimia

Narrow lanes, tower houses, lush vegetation and flowing water characterise Drakia. As you explore the village on foot, you will encounter these features as part of its village scenery. You can also explore the cobbled Kalderimia on foot, with flowing water and lush vegetation accompanying these paths. Drakia’s village square is considered the oldest village square on Pelion.

History and churches

Drakia was built in 1655 by craftsmen from Epirus who settled in the area. In 2000, the village was included in Greece’s network of martyred towns and villages by presidential decree. The painter Ioannis Pagonis, who also came from Epirus, lived in Drakia. The two dates mark different milestones: one belongs to the village’s founding story, while the other refers to its later recognition. Pagonis adds another, biographical connection to the village’s history.

Agios Athonas lies on the southeastern edge of Drakia and was built in the 17th century. The church was later rebuilt after earthquakes and fires. Agios Spyridon was also built in the 17th century, but is located in the old quarter of Galatas. Among the best-known churches in Drakia are those of Saint Nicholas, Saint Athanasios and Saint Spyridon. The churches of Agios Athonas and Agios Spyridon therefore date from the same century, but are located in different parts of the village.

Hiking trails by route and destination

The Drakia–Agios Lavrentios route begins in the centre, near the Church of Saint Nicholas. It first follows a cobbled Kalderimi to the eastern edge of the village, passing an unpaved football pitch along the way. The path is marked throughout with yellow signs on trees and metal posts; at the beginning, however, the direction is unclear. Much of the hike follows a rough, little-used dirt road. On Pelion, this route is considered one of the shorter and easier hikes. Before setting out, check the current trail conditions and take the unclear direction at the start into account when finding your way.

The Alikopetra–Drakia route ends in the centre of Drakia, at the Church of Saint Nicholas. Along the way, it passes through a ravine rich in water, with small waterfalls, and descends a slope with tall vegetation and abundant water. The Profitis Ilias chapel is also on the route. In other sections, the path is worn; check conditions there before setting out.

The destination also helps when comparing the routes: the Drakia–Agios Lavrentios trail leads from the centre to the eastern edge of the village and onward towards Agios Lavrentios. Another hiking trail leads from Drakia to Chania, while the Alikopetra–Drakia route ends in the centre of Drakia. When choosing between these trails, you can first consider your preferred destination, then the route each one follows.

Discover more destinations: Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, Xinovrysi, Magnesia, Neochori, Chorto, Achillio

For the broader travel overview: Magnesia.