LIMNI EVIA
Although its name implies the existence of a nearby lake (‘limni’ in Greek means lake), history points to a different viewpoint. Its name derives from the ancient Greek city ‘Elimnion’ or as characterized in an excerpt from Sophocles’ play “bridal Elimnion”, it is associated with the first union of Zeus and Hera.
A few words about the place
A nested village, one of the most picturesque ones in Northern Evia filled with narrow passageways and a strong flare of its marine background. This is Limni, a beautiful village overlooking the crystal-clear sea of the Northern Gulf of Evia.
Although its name implies the existence of a nearby lake (‘limni’ in Greek means lake), history points to a different viewpoint. Its name derives from the ancient Greek city ‘Elimnion’ or as characterized in an excerpt from Sophocles’ play “bridal Elimnion”, it is associated with the first union of Zeus and Hera.
Moving to the present, it is worth noting that tourism growth has not prevented it from maintaining its traditional and picturesque features.
Its architecture is one of the things you will fall in love with. Traditional roof-tiled houses, well-cared small gardens, and bougainvillea-filled passageways dot each and every little corner.
Although the 2021 catastrophic wildfires left deep scars, the little town still excites and impresses you.
Its welcoming inhabitants are its strongest asset. They make you feel at home, ease you into their traditions and offer you a great experience.
Traditional Greek cafes and “ouzeri” (seafood restaurants) abound at the promenade offering local delicacies with a view to kill for.
What to see/highlights:
Besides its wonderful beach, there is a plethora of places to explore nearby.
In the centre of the town, you can visit:
- The Folklore Museum of Limni & the Museum of Folk Costumes.
The Folklore Museum of Limni was founded, in 1993, by Ekatherine Evaggelinou-Flockou, who came from a wealthy seafaring family and made a generous contribution. It is housed in the two-storey manor of the family, which was donated with the sole purpose of being turned into a museum.
Its collection contains traditional costumes, household items, and tools worn or used by the locals and is preserved to this day.
On the ground floor, you will find the archaeological collection containing old coins, inscriptions, ancient pottery, and mosaics, all from the surrounding area.
The exhibits will take you back in time, enabling you to visualise the simple little habits of everyday folk. Every history enthusiast will definitely be moved and admire the effort made by the inhabitants and volunteers of Limni to preserve the exhibits.
Every history enthusiast will definitely be moved and admire the effort made by the inhabitants and volunteers of Limni to preserve the exhibits.
- The Monastery of St. David the Elder & the Monastery of St. Nicholas (Galataki)
The spectacular and well-known Monastery of St. David the Elder is in Rovies, North Evia, Municipality of Mantoudi – Agia Anna just half an hour drive from Limni. It is 16 km from Rovies and 22 km from Limni. Built in the 14th century, it survived the 2021 wildfires and is fully operational, welcoming pilgrims or anyone who wishes to visit. It is located between the villages of Drymonas and Kalamoudi at an altitude of 500 metres.
The Convent of St. Nicholas, also known as Galataki, is located 9 kilometres away from Limni at an altitude of 110 metres with a view of
Mount Candili. It is considered the oldest convent in Evia, and in 1958 it was declared an archaeological monument.
- Drymonas Waterfalls
Near the Monastery of St. David, the Elder, you will find the Drymonas Waterfalls. The fire has completely reformed the scenery but remains exciting and invites exploration. The waterfall, the cold-water springing from high up the mountains, and the sounds of nature will take you to magical places. The greening of the areas where age-old plane trees were rooted acts as a reminder of nature’s self-healing power, provided we respect and preserve it.
How to get here:
1. From Athens, head to Chalkida (60 minutes) by road and then head north through the town of Nea Artaki towards “Agios Ioannis o Rossos”. Continue on towards Mantoudi. A few kilometres further on, a sign will direct you to the left towards Limni.
2. From Edipsos, take the ferry boat from Arkitsa Port to Edipsos. It is a further 30-kilometre drive to the south.
