Serres: The city that never sleeps

 

 
The city of Serres, situated about 40 miles away from the Macedonian capital, Thessaloniki, is a city with rich history and a bevy of hidden secrets worthy of discovery. 

 

Serres and its greater area have beautiful natural landscapes that are worth visiting, including mountains, forests, rivers, Kerkini lake and Lailia ski center. Herodotus was the first to mention of the town, using the name “Siris” and used the word “Siropaeones” to refer to the citie’s inhabitants. Today, it is a vibrant city that never sleeps – especially on the weekends. 

When visiting the city center be sure to visit “Bezesteni”, the city’s covered market that houses the Serres Archaeological Museum. Stroll down the beautiful pedestrian walkways and sneak into some of the city’s renowned establishments to enjoy the ouzo of Serres. And definitely do not forget that the city of Serres is famous for its souvlaki restaurants and famous bougatsa vendors (a delicious pie filled with cream or cheese).

Visit the orthodox centers of Agioi Theodoroi, Agios Georgios, Agios Nikolaos in Koula and of course the Orestis’ Tower in the “Acropolis” of the city. Visit the “Valley” of Agioi Anargyroi – a recreation and sporting venue for children and adults – and be sure to take in the picturesque suburb of Agios Ioannis.

The monastery of Timios Prodromos is situated about six miles from the city center. It is here where the first patriarch (following the conquest of Constantinople) Gennadios Scholarios lived. In Serres, there is an abudance of holy and historic places worth visiting are the Byzantine church of Aghios Nikolaos, the Holy Monastery of Panagia Vissiani of Metochi and the Holy Metropolis’ Ecclesiastical Museum where an invaluable collection of post-Byzantine period exhibits are presented.

In addition to the archaeological and historical sites of Serres there are many places of unique natural beauty to visit. Lake Kerkini is very well known, here visitors will find rare species of birds along with a number of fishes and reptiles. The creatures have lived in in this peaceful protected area for centuries. Ideal for birdwatching, it is also truly a place of unique beauty.

Motor sports enthusiasts will find Serres a paradise! The city boasts the largest Racing Circuit in the Balkans that meets both the FIA (International Automobile Federation) and FIM (International Motorcycle Federation) standards and can host international and European championships- as well as Formula 3 races!

Take home a taste of Serres with you – be sure to buy “akanedes”- the traditional sweet of the city. It looks like a loukoumi, but is flavoured with fresh butter from goat’s milk rather than sweet fruites. Originally called akanes halva, which means royal halva in Turkish, this regal treat will remind you of sweet times in Serres!

To learn more:
www.serres.gr