Sarakatsan are an ethnic minority speaking Greek language, nomadic, present mainly in Greece and Bulgaria and in lesser numbers in Albania and Macedonia. Every year at the end of June, on a plateau in the mountains near Meteora, is held their most important gathering. Absolutely not touristic, it is a wonderful opportunity to take a dip in the tradition of this welcoming community.
[sam id=”7″]
The last weekend of June, with the peak of the happenings on Sunday morning, on the plateau of Pertouli [39.55770,21.50560] takes place the gathering of Sarakatsan. A large area is reserved for campers and motorhomes so there are no problems to stop. During the shows, you can see traditional games, folk dances and short plays showing the daily lives of different clans.
At the meeting involved representatives of all families and nationalities, each with their traditional clothing that distinguishes them.
Taking a tour in the neighborhood, just outside Agios Nikolaos you meet this beautiful monastery [39.55161,21.33308]
Below is another very nice monastery, more to the north. This is Timios Stavros, at Doliana [39.63118,21.34384]. Unfortunately, we found it closed and we could not visit the interior. Open from April to October, from 10.00 to 18.00, closed on Wednesdays.
The parking lot, although a bit isolated, is also suitable to stay overnight.
[sam id=”7″]