Parnonas on the side of Laconia

Parnonas, also known as Malevos, is the most extensive complex of the Peloponnese. It stretches over 2 million stremmas, 86% of which are forest and pasture land. It is one of the most important ecological zones in Greece - after all, many of its regions have been designated protected areas and have been incorporated into the European Natura 2000 Network.

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In ancient times, Parnonas or Malevos was considered a miraculous mountain, and its name means “peak that shines”. Its habitiation started as early as the Neolithic era. Most of the ancient castles and fortresses were built during the wars between Argos and Sparta, starting in the 11th century BC.

It is the most extensive complex of the Peloponnese. It stretches over 2 million stremmas, 86% of which are forest and pasture land. It lies in the eastern part of the Peloponnese, covering a part of Arcadia, and reaching Laconia. The southern part of Parnonas ends at Maleas Cape.

The ecosystem of this massif is of enormous ecological value, with very rich flora and fauna. It is covered in good part by forests, consisting mainly of plane trees, chestnut trees, black pine trees, Cephalonian fir trees, cedars, oak trees and carob trees. The cedar forest is of particular importance, in the area of the Monastery of Malevi,which is the only one existing in Europe, and has been designated a natural monument.

The flora of Parnonas includes a plethora of species, including several with therapeutic effects. More than 80 rare species of plants have been registered here, including 12 endemic.

On the side of Laconia, you’ll find beautiful villages built on the mountain, such as Vamvakou, Varvitsa, Vassaras, Veria, Vresthena, Karyes, Megali Vrysi, Polydroso (Tsintzina),  Agrianoi, Chrysafa.

Location

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