Larisa is the largest prefecture in Thessalia covering an area of 5,381 square kilometres and of exceptional natural beauty, with mountains and beaches. The prefecture of Larissa is a perfect destination for those who enjoy touring all year round.
Prefecture Capital
Larisa : The main town of the prefecture and a commercial and agricultural trading centre for the region. The town is on the east bank of the River Pinios, with the Alkazar Park on the other bank. The town, according to archaeological indications is on the site of a much older town. The city has undergone many transformations in its long history; but the city leaders have managed to save some of the neoclassical hoses and squares in the city centre. Larisa is a university city also, a major military base, therefore it can be active in the city at night and weekends. Hippocrates lived for many years in Larissa and died here in 370 BC.
Places of interest in the city
The Acropolis: situated on Agios Ahillios, excavations has revealed that the area had been occupied 6000 BC and used as an acropolis for the settlement, and later the site of the fortress.
The Archaeological Museum: display many artefacts from the Neolithic and later periods.
Historical Museum : on display are artisan’s tools and equipment from the pre-industrial age and other artefacts from finds around the district.
The Ethnographical Historical Museum: has on display artefacts relating to the way of life in the region, that include costumes displays of jewellery, coins, ceramics and weapons.
Alkazar Park : during the hot days of the summer, the park is a delight in which to relax and cool down from the day sighting.
Ancient Theatre A at Larissa: lies on the slope of the hill called “Phrourion” (Fortress) at Larissa. It dates from end of the 3rd century B.C. and continued to be used as a theatre by the Romans.
Ancient Theatre B at Larissa: is the second larger ancient theatre at Larissa, also used in the Roman period.
Sights of special interest in the region
Ambelakia: The famous Schwarz mansion, built in 1787, is now a house-museum, with its murals, wood carved adornment, and stained-glass skylights and detailed fireplace. The churches of Aghios Georgios and Aghia Paraskevi also merit a visit. The women of the village have set up a Tourism Co-operative, which have a few rooms to provide somewhere to stay for visitors.
The Vale of Tembi: is 29km north of Larisa between Mt. Olympus and Mt. Ossa. This scenic route along the National Highway to Thessaloniki goes through this narrow pass alongside the River Pinios. The area is stunningly beautiful, lush vegetation sparkling springs. These springs, once were dedicated to the Goddess Aphrodite, there was also a temple dedicated to Apollo, said to be older than the site at Delphi. The castle of Orias perched upon the rocky hill overlooks the vale.
Elassona: Northwest of Larissa, here one can visit the 14th century monastery Panagia Olympiotissa, built on the hill of the ancient acropolis.
Tsaritsani: is a traditional village northwest of Larissa, with mansions, tower-houses and interesting churches.
Mount Olympus: the mountain of the Gods, situated in the northeast of Thessalia. Olympus has many towering peaks and its slopes are suitable for winter sports.
Roman Baths at Neromyloi: includes the remains the cold and hot-water bath chambers, reception and resting rooms decorated with mosaic floors.
Archaic Tholos Tomb at Pharsala: Dates from the 6th century BC, and used until the Hellenistic period.
