If there is a city that has seen rapid tourist growth in recent years in Greece, then Trikala can easily be this city. The river that runs through the city, the charming old town and the many attractions make it a winter-summer destination. In fact, Trikala is on the list of the 10 oldest cities in Europe that is continuously inhabited.
Trikala and its history
The ancient city of Trikka was founded 5,000 years ago, close to 3,000 BC and took its name from the nymph Trikki, daughter of Pinyos (the river). Certainly one factor that has made it grow and prosper for many years is its riverside location. Maybe that’s the main reason. The city was an important centre of antiquity. It was there that Asclepius also lived and worked, and today he is the emblem of the city as he was also its king.
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Trikala today
I’m sure you’ll see a great many things, eat well and have a good time. One of the most famous sights is the Fortress with its tower and clock. Having a height of about 33 meters, you can see it if you look from most parts of the city. Under the Fortress lies a separate section of Trikala, named Varousi. It is the old quarter of Trikala and one of the places we recommend you to not miss. I’m sure you’ve heard of the Sakaflias Straits. Well, that’s where they are. It is very picturesque and nice for walking. At the entrance of the city, you will also see the Kursum Mosque with an impressive lead-covered dome. It is no coincidence that it is on the list of Unesco World Heritage Sites.
And after you take your walk, you will return to the pedestrian street of Asclepius. The best spot for a walk at Trikala and also a relaxing place for a cup of coffee. You will find many shops with happy hours and coffee at a price lower than normal and also very good food.
More than that on your trip you can make a visit to the nearby awesome Meteora.
How to get to Trikala
The distance from Athens is about 3.5 hours by car. You take the National Road to Athens – Thessaloniki towards Lamia. You go out to the exit node of Roditsa and continue on to Trikala. The signs on the way will help you.
Photo Source: trikalacity.gr
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Trikala is on the list of the 10 oldest cities in Europe that is continuously inhabited. The ancient city of Trikka was founded approximately 5,000 years ago, close to 3,000 BC, and was named after the nymph Trikki, daughter of Pinyos, the river that runs through the city.
The main attractions in Trikala include the Fortress with its 33-meter tall tower and clock, the Varousi old quarter with the picturesque Sakaflias Straits, the Kursum Mosque with its impressive lead-covered dome (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the pedestrian street of Asclepius, which is ideal for walking and enjoying coffee.
Trikala is approximately 3.5 hours away from Athens by car. Take the National Road Athens-Thessaloniki towards Lamia, exit at the Roditsa node, and continue towards Trikala following the road signs.
Trikala was an important center of antiquity and is historically significant because Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine, lived and worked there. Asclepius is now the emblem of the city and was also its ancient king. The city's riverside location on the Pinyos River has been a key factor in its growth and prosperity throughout history.
In Trikala, you can enjoy shopping and dining on the pedestrian street of Asclepius, which features many shops with happy hours and affordable coffee prices. The area also offers excellent food options. Additionally, you can take a day trip to the nearby Meteora, the mystical mountains located close to Trikala.
