Ano Lousi brings together an archaeological site and historic landmarks in the village. This allows travelers interested in cultural history at different scales to explore ancient structures alongside village history. You can choose your focus depending on whether you are primarily interested in archaeological architecture or would also like to include local memorials, church history and the history of the village.
Location and former place name
Ano Lousi lies on the slopes of the Aroania Mountains at an elevation of 1,140 meters. The village was formerly called Soudená Theotókou. This description combines its geographical setting with a former name, adding the surrounding landscape to the cultural themes.
The archaeological site
The archaeological site of Áno Lousoí is located in the village of Lousoi, also known as Soudená. It is home to a Doric temple dedicated to Artemis, built in an unusual ground plan at the beginning of the 3rd century BC. The site also includes remains of an older Geometric temple, a bouleuterion, a well and a propylon. The entire area around the site is designated as an archaeological site.
The dedication, Doric architectural style, construction date and ground plan describe different aspects of the Temple of Artemis. The Geometric remains, by contrast, belong to an older temple. Along with the other structures mentioned, they show that the archaeological focus extends beyond a single temple. If you are planning a visit to the area, check the current visiting conditions in advance.
Historic landmarks in the village
A monument to the Greek Resistance stands in the village square. The main church is dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God and was completed in 1932. A stone spring has been in Ano Lousi since 1865. The village is also associated with Assimakis Skaltsas, a captain from 1821. The monument, church and spring offer points of interest distinct from the archaeological site: remembrance, religious dedication and a historic feature of the village.
The dates refer to different features: 1865 is associated with the stone spring, while 1932 marks the completion of the church. The association with Skaltsas is a separate biographical thread in the area's history. This distinction helps avoid reducing the village's history to a single period or structure.
Ancient Louses nearby
Ancient Louses is another archaeological site in the surrounding area. It opened to the public in July 2004. Ancient Louses is a separate site and should be distinguished from the archaeological site of Áno Lousoí. This allows you to consider the two archaeological landmarks separately. Check the current visiting conditions before visiting Ancient Louses.
Discover more destinations: Mánganos, Tsivlos, Niforeika, Petrochori, Agia Eleousa, Kernitsa, Agia Varvara, Selianítika.
For the broader travel overview: Achaia.
