MOUZAKI - Sentinel of the Plain Within the bounds of the Municipality of Mouzaki, a region that strikes a captivating balance between the wide-open plains and the beckoning mountains, lie three of the prefecture's most charming semi-mountainous villages. Here too, awaits Thessaly's best-preserved castle, a true historical gem, alongside a fascinating array of diverse monuments whispering tales of bygone eras. At the northern edge of the Karditsa Regional Unit, Mouzaki serves not only as the area's commercial and administrative heart but also as a crucial crossroads connecting routes to and from Argithea, the stunning Lake Plastira, and the historic Pyli of Trikala. This relatively "new" and vibrant town, despite suffering setbacks from destructive storms in recent years, spreads proudly at the foothills of Mount Itamos, marking the eastern end of the mighty Agrafa range. It nestles beside the Pamisos River, a major tributary of the Pineios. Peeking through a dramatic cleft in the sheer rock faces, Mouzaki gazes upon the passes of the Southern Pindus, offering a captivating introduction to its wondrous mountainous realm. Image A Wealth of ChoicesRadiating outwards from Mouzaki, a multitude of routes unfold, each holding secrets waiting to be discovered by the curious visitor. Heading west towards Argithea, just 3 km from town, lies the "Palaiokamara" of Porti, a 16th-century stone bridge, a legacy of Saint Vissarion, Metropolitan of Larissa, of which only one arch remains today. Ascending towards the village itself, you'll find a launch site for hang gliders and a challenging climbing field. Porti, beyond its sun-drenched panoramic setting, boasts the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos dating back to 1592, remnants of ancient walls at the Palaiokastro site, and for caving enthusiasts, numerous caves await exploration at the location known as "Skala". Drawing ever closer to the realm of Argithea, we reach Oxya, a village of scattered hamlets gazing across at the peaks of Mount Karava, neatly bisected by the Pamisos River. In one of its settlements, Mesorrachi, stands the Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) of Oxya, its walls adorned with smoke-darkened frescoes from 1682.Heading towards Lake Plastira, which lies about 30 km from Mouzaki, a stop in Anthochori is well worthwhile. A pleasant 20-minute hike from the stone watermill leads to a small yet impressive waterfall. Equally charming is the Kamara Anthochoriou, a small stone bridge in a delightful setting, reachable after a 5 km drive along a dirt track. Image Heading EastwardA few kilometres east of Mouzaki sits Ellinopyrgos. This traditional settlement derives its name ('Greek Tower') from the ruins of a 4th-century BC tower found on the village's northern side. Easily accessible, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views. Your gaze can stretch from Mouzaki and Pyli of Trikala all the way to Fanari and even further, towards Domokos. Although often called a 'castle', it likely served as a phryctoria (beacon tower), maintaining visual contact with the harder-to-reach towers at Ellinokastro and Pyrgos Ithomis. Nestled amidst lush vegetation, 1 km from Pyrgos Ithomis, the Church of the Twelve Apostles marks the entrance to the Mega Gorge. This ravine is dramatically carved between the hill of the local 'acropolis' and a rock formation known as "Stefani tis Panagias" (Our Lady's Crown), where a cave shelters a miracle-working icon. Image In Karaiskakis's BirthplaceReturning towards the plain, a detour to Mavrommati is a must. In the birthplace of Georgios Karaiskakis, the legendary, famously outspoken general of the Greek Revolution, visitors are greeted by his imposing equestrian statue. The illegitimate son of a nun known as "Kyra-Zoi," he was born in 1782 in a cave (which you can visit) located north of the village. From there, it's another 2 km to reach the historic Monastery of Agios Georgios (St. George). Back in the village square, a visit to the house where Karaiskakis lived until the age of 17 can be perfectly paired with the adjacent, wonderful Museum of Folk Art, a lifelong passion project of Mrs. Melpomeni Tziouvara. Image At the easternmost edge of the municipality, two of Karditsa's most beautiful villages await. The neighbouring settlements of Fanari and Kanalia share a strategic position, commanding views over the ancient routes from Epirus into Thessaly. Indeed, the formidable Fanari Castle was one of the most significant Byzantine strongholds of its era. Kanalia, with its almost 'suspended' square hosting delightful tavernas, its winding alleys touched by hints of Epirote architecture, and its sweeping vistas encompassing Fanari Castle, distant Mount Olympus, and the boundless plain, provides the perfect, picturesque 'epilogue' to your explorations.
