Epirus is a breathtaking region of Greece that is rich in contrasts and natural beauty. Every corner of this picturesque area is steeped in history and mythology. One such place is the village near the so-called gates of Hades, where legend has it that the dead pass into the other world. This village is Glyki (“sweat” in Greek) in Thesprotia, a lush green destination that is perfect for nature lovers. Its stunning beauty is no accident, as the crystal clear waters of the Acheron River flow through it.
The two Greek ports that separate them 30 meters and… 2,500 years
Glyki: The village next to the gates of Hades
In the area, there is a site of great historical significance – the ancient Necromancy of Acheron. According to the famous poet Homer, this was the location where the river Acheron merged with two other rivers – Cocytus and Pyriphlegethon. This convergence occurred on the northwestern shores of Lake Acherousia, which was believed to be the entrance to the world of souls.
Today, however, the area has shed its dark and foreboding past. Thousands of people visit every year to take in the natural beauty of the place. They stroll along the riverbanks or take boat rides on the turquoise-clear waters of Acheron. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike!
The unknown story of the dragon
Beyond the well-known mythology of the gates of Hades, there is another lesser-known tale that has been passed down through generations. This story explains the origin of the village’s name – Glyki. According to legend, Saint Donatus once vanquished a dragon that had made its home in the springs of Acheron. The dragon had poisoned the water, making it deadly to both animals and humans. After defeating the dragon, Saint Donatus blessed the water, purifying it and making it sweet to drink. It is believed that this miracle is what gave the village its name – Glyki.
Travel to Greece – Google news – Follow us
Why did this famous Athenian statue stay in the workshop for 38 years?
The ancient triangles of Greece: Journeys of mystery and unparalleled beauty
Follow exploringgreece.tv on Instagram and Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions
Glyki is a small village located in Thesprotia, Epirus, Greece. It sits on the banks of the Acheron River in a picturesque natural setting surrounded by springs, plane trees, and wooded areas.
According to Greek mythology, the Acheron River flowing through Glyki was believed to be one of the rivers leading to the underworld. An oracle of the dead was located on its banks, and it was thought to be the passage where souls crossed to reach Hades' kingdom with Charon the ferryman.
The name Glyki, meaning 'sweet' in Greek, comes from a legend about Saint Donatus who defeated a dragon that had poisoned the waters of the Acheron springs. After vanquishing the dragon, Saint Donatus blessed the water, purifying it and making it sweet to drink, which inspired the village's name.
Visitors to Glyki can stroll along the scenic riverbanks of the Acheron, take boat rides on the crystal-clear turquoise waters, explore the natural springs and wooded areas, and visit the ancient Necromancy of Acheron site. It's popular for nature lovers and those interested in Greek mythology and history.
The Necromancy of Acheron is an ancient site of great historical significance located near Glyki where the Acheron River merges with the Cocytus and Pyriphlegethon rivers. According to Homer, this convergence occurred on the northwestern shores of Lake Acherousia, which was believed to be the entrance to the world of souls in Greek mythology.
