Gravia
Gravia: A Place of History in the Heart of Fokida!
Gravia is a picturesque town, situated in the northeastern part of Fokida, in the heart of Greece. Following the local government reform of 2011, it was integrated into the Municipality of Delphi, now functioning as a vibrant municipal unit within it. The municipal unit spans an area of 161.651 square kilometers, offering a rich natural landscape.
The municipal unit of Gravia is located at the foothills of the imposing Giona and Parnassos mountains, two of Greece's most impressive peaks. Its northeastern part embraces the western edge of the wide valley of the Kifissos River, an area renowned for its extensive agricultural lands. Gravia borders the Fthiotida Prefecture to the north and northeast, while National Road 27 seamlessly connects it with Itea, Amfissa, and Lamia. It is strategically positioned south of Lamia, northwest of Livadeia, and north of Amfissa and Itea, making it easily accessible.
The Origin of the Name and the Medieval Monastery of Pantanassa
The name "Gravia" is of Slavic origin, indicating settlement in the area after the 6th century. Initially, it was the name of a local river (today Koukouvistianos), which was later transferred to a historic monastery, the medieval Monastery of Panagia Pantanassa, located approximately 5 km northwest of the modern settlement, above the acropolis of the ancient settlement of Pindos.
The Monastery was probably erected by the Crusaders in the early 13th century, first mentioned in 1259, when the Prince of Achaia, William II Villehardouin, passed through the local defile en route to the Battle of Pelagonia. In 1275, it was one of the buildings ceded by the ruler of Thessaly, John I Doukas, to the Duchy of Athens, as a dowry for his daughter, Helena Angelina Komnena. The subsequent history of the Monastery remains largely unknown, apart from a brief mention in 1304.
The Battle of Gravia Inn: A Symbol of Freedom
Gravia is widely known and etched in history due to the legendary Battle of Gravia Inn, which took place during the Greek Revolution of 1821. It was in May 1821 when the fearless Odysseas Androutsos, leading a Greek military contingent, successfully repelled a fierce attack by the Turkish army under the command of Omer Vrioni. This battle stands as a shining symbol of resistance and freedom for the Greek nation.
Gravia is a picturesque town, situated in the northeastern part of Fokida, in the heart of Greece. Following the local government reform of 2011, it was integrated into the Municipality of Delphi, now functioning as a vibrant municipal unit within it. The municipal unit spans an area of 161.651 square kilometers, offering a rich natural landscape.
The municipal unit of Gravia is located at the foothills of the imposing Giona and Parnassos mountains, two of Greece's most impressive peaks. Its northeastern part embraces the western edge of the wide valley of the Kifissos River, an area renowned for its extensive agricultural lands. Gravia borders the Fthiotida Prefecture to the north and northeast, while National Road 27 seamlessly connects it with Itea, Amfissa, and Lamia. It is strategically positioned south of Lamia, northwest of Livadeia, and north of Amfissa and Itea, making it easily accessible.
The Origin of the Name and the Medieval Monastery of Pantanassa
The name "Gravia" is of Slavic origin, indicating settlement in the area after the 6th century. Initially, it was the name of a local river (today Koukouvistianos), which was later transferred to a historic monastery, the medieval Monastery of Panagia Pantanassa, located approximately 5 km northwest of the modern settlement, above the acropolis of the ancient settlement of Pindos.
The Monastery was probably erected by the Crusaders in the early 13th century, first mentioned in 1259, when the Prince of Achaia, William II Villehardouin, passed through the local defile en route to the Battle of Pelagonia. In 1275, it was one of the buildings ceded by the ruler of Thessaly, John I Doukas, to the Duchy of Athens, as a dowry for his daughter, Helena Angelina Komnena. The subsequent history of the Monastery remains largely unknown, apart from a brief mention in 1304.
The Battle of Gravia Inn: A Symbol of Freedom
Gravia is widely known and etched in history due to the legendary Battle of Gravia Inn, which took place during the Greek Revolution of 1821. It was in May 1821 when the fearless Odysseas Androutsos, leading a Greek military contingent, successfully repelled a fierce attack by the Turkish army under the command of Omer Vrioni. This battle stands as a shining symbol of resistance and freedom for the Greek nation.
The Chani Of Gravia
The historic inn in Gravia, built of brick, was once a welcoming haven for weary travelers. Yet, this humble building was destined to be etched forever in hearts and in history!
On this very day, May 8, 1821, the brave Odysseas Androutsos, along with approximately 120 fearless fighters, fortified themselves here. They resisted with incredible courage the fierce attacks of Omer Vrionis's Turkish troops. It was a battle that not only repelled the enemy but also significantly boosted the morale of the revolutionary Greeks, writing golden pages in our history.
Unfortunately, the original building collapsed over time. However, in 1999, a faithful replica was inaugurated, with every space lovingly crafted to revive the atmosphere of that era and transport us back in time.
Inside this building, there's also a wonderful Museum, where the battle comes to life every hour with captivating screenings. It's an awe-inspiring experience that brings you closer to the events.
And every year, with great honor and pride, we celebrate this anniversary with magnificent commemorative events, honoring the heroes who fought for freedom.
On this very day, May 8, 1821, the brave Odysseas Androutsos, along with approximately 120 fearless fighters, fortified themselves here. They resisted with incredible courage the fierce attacks of Omer Vrionis's Turkish troops. It was a battle that not only repelled the enemy but also significantly boosted the morale of the revolutionary Greeks, writing golden pages in our history.
Unfortunately, the original building collapsed over time. However, in 1999, a faithful replica was inaugurated, with every space lovingly crafted to revive the atmosphere of that era and transport us back in time.
Inside this building, there's also a wonderful Museum, where the battle comes to life every hour with captivating screenings. It's an awe-inspiring experience that brings you closer to the events.
And every year, with great honor and pride, we celebrate this anniversary with magnificent commemorative events, honoring the heroes who fought for freedom.
➯ More info for Chani of Gravia
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