Neighbouring villages Palaio and Neo Mikro Chorio are located 13 and 10 km. respectively from Karpenissi at the foot of Mount Helidona. Many houses in Mikro Chorio were destroyed by a landslide in January 1963, when, after 13 days of continuous rain, a large part of the mountain “Kri” came off and crushed most of the houses, taking the lives of thirteen locals. A Monument for the 13 victims stands today at the entrance of Palaio Mikro Chorio. However, all houses that survived, are well preserved.
If you follow the handwritten inscription and the dirt road next to the monument you will get to the lake that was created after this tragic event. Willows and plane trees adorn its shore while in its waters reflect the beauty of nature.
Here the land narrates stories unchanged in time: At the church of Metamorfosi Sotiros, according to tradition, in 1823 Markos Botsaris prayed before embarking on the battle of Kefalovrysso that cost him his life. Outside the village, Velouchiotis set an ambush on the Italians. At Ano Longoves, the Italians retaliated by executing 13 people at the exact location where today stands a monument.
The jewel of the village is its square with the six fountains and the vigilant guard of the village, a plane tree counting more than two centuries of life.
When you visit Metamorfosi Sotiros, remember to take a closer look at the digits of the belfry clock, which have been replaced by the letters of the name of the donor’s daughter, Eleni Sideri. Catch your breath at the courtyard of the church to enjoy the lovely view of Kaliakouda, Karpenissiotis and Velouchi. Next to it you will see the old historical school of Palaio Mikro Chorio, which now houses the Folklore Museum.
A network of trails starts from Palaio Mikro Chorio with the longest route leading to the top of Helidona.
Here foodies will enjoy good and traditional food. Alternatively, head south to the village of Gavros, with its famous taverns to taste fish farm trout and juicy meat dishes. In the past and up to the 70s, pilgrims going to the monastery of Proussos used to make a stop here before they resumed their journey to the monastery on mules.
