We linger a little longer in the hinterland of Southern Euboea to discover more wonders hidden in the mountains. This time it was the turn of the enigmatic “dragon houses”. These megalithic, archaic constructions known as drakospita are scattered throughout the central and southern part of the island. We visited the group of Palli-Laka which is easily accessible from Styra and we’ve been fairly impressed!
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We start our journey from Karystos staying on the main road and heading north towards Styra (the inland village, not the coastal one which is called Nea/New Styra). Once we get there, we look for the signs to “Drakospita”. The road is only 3km long but it is unpaved and not in the best conditions. Anyway, it’s doable by almost any vehicle, just drive attentively. We park our camper in the clearing [38.15269,24.26272] and we proceed on foot following the signs (photo bellow). The path is quite steep but not long. It takes only 5 minutes to reach the first of the three dragon houses found there.
It is unclear the exact time and the purposes for which they were built. Most likely they were constructed between the 6th and the 2th -1st c B.C and they were in use until recently as livestock enclosures. Of course this was not the original plan. Given that almost all the drakospita found in Euboea are situated on craggy hillsides or mountain tops with excellent views and next to quarries, there is a possibility that they might be used as temples, warehouses, outposts, beacons, shelters for the quarrymen or for the Roman guards.
The megalithic edifices are truly spectacular and we cannot but admire the technical expertise of the ancient craftsmen. What is certain is that they were applying a specific construction plan, the same in all the cases. They were using lifting machines to carry and pile up on top of each other huge stones which are stacked without mortar. How could they achieve perfect weight distribution, this is a kind of … miracle.
The path continues further up the slope and after ten minutes of climbing we get to what was probably the quarry from where the stones were dug for the construction of the dragon houses..Although it is a pleasant hike with excellent views there are not much more to see.
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We’re going to Evia in a few weeks, and I found out about the Dragon Houses. I’ve been trying to see exactly where they are to plan a trip, and your information has been by far the most useful. Map and everything! Well done and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words! Enjoy your stay in Evia and send us your feedback!!! 🙂