Municipality of Milies

Just 28km from the capital of the prefecture, Volos, is one of the most picturesque villages on Mt. Pelion, Milies, centre of the municipality of the same name. Unrivalled in its natural beauty, Milies has played a vital role in the history of Magnesia, and of Greece as a whole. The celebrated 'School of Milies', founded by Gazis, Konstantas and Philippidis, was an invaluable cultural centre in its day and a rallying point in the struggle for independence in 1821.

Visit the famous Milies library, which holds more than 3,000 rare books and manuscripts. At the Folklore Museum you will see the flag raised on 7 May 1821 by Anthimos Gazis to mark the rising of the people of Pelion against the Turkish oppressor. You can also admire works by the famous painter Theofilos, and a rare collection of photographs illustrating old crafts which have now been lost.

You must without fail take a ride on Pelion's picturesque miniature railway, which traverses one of the most beautiful corners of Europe. Starting at Lehonia, the train ascends through the olive groves, puffing and whistling just like the old steam engines used to do. It calls at the stations of Ano Gatzea, Aghia Triada, Aghios Athanasios Pinakates, and the village of Argyreika Vyzitsa, before stopping at Milies. For 76 years, from 1895 to 1971, the little train climbed Mt. Pelion, carrying people and goods, and made a vital contribution to the rapid development of the region. It was built by the Italian engineer, father of the famous painter Giorgio.

Many of the traditional Pelion houses and tower-houses you will see in the Municipality of Milies have been converted into guesthouses. Choose one of these as a place to stay and you will be treated to the hospitality of the present-day descendants of the ancient Magnites, the inhabitants of Magnesia from whom the prefecture took its name. Neighbouring Vizitsa, a village protected by law from unsuitable development, makes an instant and powerful impression on visitors. Enjoy the superb natural landscape, with the centuries-old plane trees, the fruit trees, olive groves and the sweet-smelling herbs growing in the rich, fertile soil of the area. Visit the Monastery of Aghios Ioannis Prodromos, the three-aisled basilica church of Zoodochos Pigis (1725) and the Mousga covered spring, dating back to 1888.

Walk to Pinakates and admire the glories of the natural setting, the abundant water and lush vegetation, and enjoy the even more precious tranquillity of the landscape. It is also worth visiting the picturesque Monastery of Aghia Triada, at Ano Gatzea and enjoying a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kato Gatzea and Koropi.

Κala Nera is a picturesque coastal community with a large sandy beach, buzzing with life every summer. Wonderful sand, crystal-clear water, water sports and activities, cafes, picturesque fish tavernas, folk art shops and many other attractions to satisfy the most demanding visitors. Make sure to visit the Chrysohoidis tower and the community of Argyreika.

The village of Aghios Georgios Nileias, set in lush vegetation at a height of 620 metres, is the highest of all the Pelion villages. We recommend a visit to the Ioannidis house, the Taxiarches Monastery (1309), and the churches of Aghios Georgios, Aghios Athanasios and the Dormition of the Virgin.

 more http://www.milees.gov.gr/