Sykourio Folklore Museum "Ioannis Prapas"

Housed in a beautifully restored watermill at the entrance to the gorge leading to the mountain village of Spilia, the museum has transformed a historic landmark of rural production into a vibrant space dedicated to local history and cultural heritage. The watermill originally belonged to Michalis Kittas, whose descendants, Nikolaos and Christos, generously donated it to the community of Sykourio.

The museum was founded by folklorist Giannis N. Prapas, who devoted decades to preserving the traditions and cultural heritage of his homeland. His collecting journey began in 1986, and today the museum houses more than 2,000 exhibits, offering a fascinating insight into the daily life, traditional occupations, and history of Sykourio and the wider region.

Exploring the Museum

The visit begins in the open-air exhibition area, where visitors can admire millstones, stone watering troughs, architectural stones from old houses, and a traditional well mechanism. Inside, on the ground floor, the collection includes farming tools, viticulture and beekeeping equipment, as well as artefacts from traditional crafts such as shoemaking, tailoring, and blacksmithing—occupations that have now almost disappeared.

Particularly impressive are the collections of old coins, vintage radios, musical instruments, ecclesiastical books, historical photographs, and weapons and military memorabilia dating from the period between 1912 and 1949.

Upstairs, an authentic Thessalian home has been faithfully recreated, complete with traditional furniture, woven textiles, and local costumes, creating the impression that its residents might return at any moment. The floor also preserves valuable archival material from the former Municipality of Nessonas, along with the original voting pellets used in Greek elections until 1926. These gave rise to the well-known Greek expression "dagkoto", meaning to vote decisively or without hesitation.

As the museum's founder, Giannis Prapas, often said, "The Museum is the link of tradition that connects the past with the present and the future." It is a statement that perfectly captures the spirit of a museum dedicated to preserving the living memory of an entire community.

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About Sykourio

Sykourio is one of the largest and most historic villages in the Municipality of Tempi. It is identified with the ancient settlement of Sikyrion, while during the Ottoman era it was known as Buyuk ("Great") Keserli. Following the liberation of Thessaly in 1881, the village welcomed settlers from both the newly liberated Greek territories and regions that remained under Ottoman rule. In 1927, a royal decree officially established its present-day name.

In late winter and early spring, the blossoming almond trees surrounding the village transform the landscape into a sea of white and pink blossoms. Just a short walk from the museum lies a picturesque artificial lake, one of the area's favourite natural attractions. It is also renowned as the venue of the annual Barra Party, a lively summer celebration organised by the village's young people and the local Cultural and Beautification Association.

Museum Contact: +30 24953 50406