Photography by Kapetanakis Ilias

Makrinitsa is 17 klm from Volos, but this is a datum for the mind only. The eye is overwhelmed by the village's unique position on the mountain right above the city. Makrinitsa has a well-earned second name: The Balcony of Pelion, for the visitor of its main square will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city spreading out below at a depth of 600 meters. Beyond the captivating whiteness of the city lie the azure waters of the Pagasitikos Gulf in Pelion's loving, green embrace. Anyone planning a trip around the world in 80 days will undoubtedly include Makrinitsa on his list of stopovers.

Makrinitsa's history is long and rich and its contribution to the prosperity and progress of the area praiseworthy. Though it was set to the torch in the past, the imposing mansions have like the Phoenix been reborn from their ashes, and today they stand tall and proud and beautiful, perennial reminders of their glorious past.