The prefecture of Viotia is one of the 7 prefectures of the region of Sterea Ellada. It borders to the prefectures of Fokida, Fthiotida, Evia and Attica, while it is bound by the Evoic and Corinthian gulfs.
Seat of the prefecture: Livadia
Prefecture population: 131,085 (2001 census)
Distance of the prefecture seat from Athens: 119 km.
The main areas of the prefecture are: Arahova, Distomo, Thiva, Livadia.
The prefecture presents significant tourist activity all year round. Of interest are the many archaeological sites and museums, the beautiful beaches, the ski centre in Fterolakka of Parnassos Mountain, the picturesque town of Arahova and the natural landscapes of the area. The modern tourist infrastructure of the prefecture makes it ideal for summer and winter holidays, as well as for weekend excursions.
The city of Livadia, seat of the prefecture, built on the foothills of Elikonas Mountain, is a significant financial and commercial hub. It is a modern city with many points of interest. In the area of Livadia, worth visiting among others are the ancient sources of Lethe and Mnemosyni (Forgetfulness and Remembrance), the medieval castle with remnants of its surrounding walls and the bastions, the ruins of the Oracle of Trophonio, the little church of Prophitis Ilias (Prophet Elias), built next to the ruins of an ancient Temple devoted to Zeus and the statue of the Lion of Chaeronia. Livadia also has a Historical and Ethnological Museum and a Public Library.
Arahova is a picturesque mountain town built on the foothills of Parnassos Mountain, at an altitude of 950m. Arahova offers modern amenities and it is an important winter tourism centre, which, despite its popularity, still preserves its traditional character. The traditional stone-built houses, the narrow stone-paved streets, the running waters, the rugged beauty of the landscape and the enchanting view, all compose a landscape of unique beauty. Offering a vibrant nightlife and a wide choice of winter sports, Arahova is the ideal winter destination for visitors looking for adventure or for quiet and relaxing moments.
Here, you can visit the Byzantine church of Agios Georgios (Saint George), the church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) and the statue of the Greek fighter Georgios Karaiskakis. The area of Arahova also produces fine agricultural products, such as: table olives, olive oil, wine and cheese (famous is the variety formaella). Also famous are the locally made traditional Arahova rugs.
The town of Distomo is an ideal vacation place thanks to its good climate and the harmonic coexistence of sea and mountain landscape. An important point of interest of the area is the Byzantine monastery of Ossios Loukas, built in the 12th century. Its unique architectural design and its mosaic decorations give it a place among the most important works of Byzantine art. The settlement Paralia, close to Distomo, has a nice beach and it is a pole of attraction for many tourists.
The city of Thiva presents a great historical and archaeological interest. In the area of Thiva, one can see the ruins of the Palace of Kadmos, the foundations of a Temple devoted to Apollo, tombs of the Mycenaean period, paleochristianic catacombs, a medieval tower and many Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches. Also worth visiting is the archaeological museum of Thiva, where items from the ancient town of Thiva are on exhibit, as well as other archaeological findings from the surrounding area. The Vlach Wedding, a traditional event taking place on Ash Monday in Thiva, is a top tourist attraction, attended by many visitors.
Other areas in the Prefecture of Viotia with interesting sights and archaeological interest are: Aliartos, Orhomenos, Platees, Tanagra, Chaeronia.
The mountain of Parnassos has many and steep peaks and is an ideal place for mountain hiking and rock climbing. The Parnassos Ski Centre is the biggest ski centre in Greece, as well as the most popular, at a distance of only 180 km from the capital, Athens.
Actually, in the area operate three ski centres: Fterolakka, Kellaria and Gerontovrahos. These centres are fully equipped to cater to the needs of both novice and experienced ski fans. Ski and snowboard schools, rental and retail ski shops and boutiques operate on the site. Other amenities include: parking, helicodrome, reception areas, café, bar, restaurant, first aid station, road assistance and baby sitting.
The prefecture of Viotia with its important archaeological sites, the rich cultural tradition, the plethora of sights, the many natural beauties, the picturesque mountain villages and the beautiful beaches, the interesting choices for summer and winter tourism and the modern tourist infrastructure, promises to offer you new and exciting experiences.
How you can get here:
By road
By bus: There is frequent daily bus service with KTEL busses from Athens to Livadia, Thiva and Arahova.
By car: You can get to Viotia by car:
The distance from Athens is 130km.
The distance from Thessalonica is 428km.
The distance from Patras is 186km.
By train: There is passenger train service from Athens to Livadia, Thiva and Aliartos.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
(Calling code for Greece 0030)
Livadia Municipality 22610 25330 Livadia Hospital 22610 20051, 22222 Livadia Police Station 22610 88835 Livadia Traffic Police 22610 88845 Livadia Bus Station 22610 28793
Thiva Bus Station 22620 27512 Arachova Bus Station 22670 31356 Athens Bus Station210 8317173, 210 8317179 Livadia municipal Library 22610 25340 Heronia Museum of Livadia 22610 95270
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