📍 Agia Paraskevi
The “Little Paris of the Aegean” — a blend of elegance, historical significance, and the everyday rhythm of life in the heart of Lesvos.
🏛️ History & Culture
Agia Paraskevi is one of the island’s most historic and vibrant settlements. Its elegant mansions, the emblematic Primary School, the old Town Hall, and the Church of Taxiarchis highlight architectural influences from the Venetian and Roman periods. The village takes its name from the eponymous chapel located in a cave, while the entire area has been designated a Historic Site.
Noteworthy archaeological sites include the ancient temple of Klopedi, dedicated to Apollo, with impressive columns and capitals from the 6th century BC, and the Sanctuary of Messon, at the geographical “navel” of Lesvos, a place of worship for all the island’s city-states in antiquity.
The Kremasti Bridge, a medieval construction dating to around 1300, is a unique architectural marvel wrapped in legend. Tradition says the master builder entombed his wife within the foundations to bind the bridge to eternity.
Finally, the Early Christian basilica of Chalinados, the old watermills of Mylopotamos, and the industrial olive presses—crowned by the Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production—form a mosaic of history, culture, and technological evolution.
🌿 Villages & Locations
🏘️ Agia Paraskevi
A rural and urban hub with traditional architecture, a lively marketplace, and vibrant cultural activity. An ideal starting point for exploring the inland of Lesvos. Known for its dairy products, olive oil, and local sweets.
🏘️ Napi
Built on the slopes of a hill, Napi is a quiet village ideal for birdwatching and hiking. It hosts an important Archaeological and Folklore Collection, featuring traditional artifacts and Aeolian capitals. The Church of Saint John the Theologian stands out, with its 18th-century Byzantine iconostasis.
📸 Activities & Nature
- Hiking to the Sanctuary of Messon and Klopedi.
- Exploring the legends of the Kremasti Bridge.
- Ecotourism in Napi with birdwatching activities.
- Cultural walks through mansions and museums.
🍽️ Gastronomy
- Excellent olive oil and dairy products from local cooperatives.
- Traditional spoon sweets, honey, and handmade goods.
- Local festivals with abundant food and wine — perfect for authentic gastronomic experiences.
🎭 Local Events
- Carnival & Feast of Saint Charalambos with local delicacies, music, and traditional custom revivals.
- Summer cultural events at the main square of Agia Paraskevi.
🗺️ Map & Access
✨ Don't miss it:
- The unique Kremasti Bridge and its legend
- The ascent to the archaeological site of Klopedi
- The Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production
- The local celebration of Saint Charalambos
- A stroll through the folkloric village of Napi
