All this, in combination to the traditional architecture it hosts, adds to the particular charm of this town. The houses in Arachova are in general stone-built and sturdy.
However, unlike other Greek towns, they are not all alike in Arachova. Some of them are made of grey rocks, while others have regular walls. Most of them are two-storey buildings, have red-tiled roofs and are very close to each other.
In relation to most Greek streets, the mentioned steps in many cases go up to the point of taking you to the same level of the second storey of many houses, due to the mountainous relief of the areas they are perched on.
The older houses in this picturesque location are settled on the slopes of the small hills that are part of the town, while newer constructions can be found over the plains covered by lush vegetation. Other example of the characteristic architecture of Arachova are its churches |
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famous Cretan painter of the 16th century- and the tomb of the saint, although his bones were sent to Rome.
The catholicon is built over a large crypt that houses this tomb along with other two. It is a cross-in-square church, and has imposing vaults that shape the roof. The wall-paintings of this crypt also date from the 11th century.
The other church is smaller and is dedicated to Theotokos. It dates from the 10th century, and is the earliest known example of an architectural shape known as the ‘cross-in-square’ type with four columns. |
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There is another interesting church, dedicated to Agios Georgios. This is the largest on Arachova, and can be found on the top of the highest hill, so the views from this point are very good. Its has white plaster domes and great arches that contribute to the stunnig feature of its architecture.
The mentioned places constitute some of the attractions in Arachova, in part because they have been well preserved. Those who are fond of architecture and religious monuments should come to experience the vibe of the place by themselves, and keep their cameras at hand! |
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