About the village
In an area with lush vegetation, flowing waters and incredible views towards the Aegean Sea is Makrirachi, a charming northeastern Pelion village.
What sets it apart from the other villages of Pelion, its special feature, is the great tradition in floriculture. Also know as the “flower village”, Makrirachi offers to visitors unique flower scents and colors, that only its people know to grow and trade so well. Gardenias, camellias and magnolias are among the flowers that flourish in the village in which the Horticultural Women of Makrirachi Association "Gardenia" is located. Many, referring to the village call it as Gardenia-village since it was the first flower that was cultivated and brought economic growth to the village.
Makrirachi was founded during the Ottoman Empire without knowing the exact date, however in Banikas beach, which is shared with Anilio, ancient findings have been discovered, and in the top of a nearby hill lay the ruins of a medieval castle the PalaioKastro (Greek: Old Castle). It is known that during the Ottoman empire the village was famous for its silk and faced great periods of wealth on the 19th and 20th century after the benefactions of Egypt emigrant G.D.Kaniskeri who allocated large amounts of money for charitable projects in the village. Its name was given by the people and derives from the fact that the village is built on a long (Makri) ridge (rachi) of the mountain that extends to the sea.
Religious monuments are present here. Of special interest is the basilica of Agiou Ioanni tou Prodromou (St. John the Baptist) that was renovated on 1851 and has magnificent stone reliefs and also the chapels of Profitis Ilias, Agion Anargiron and Agiou Konstantinou Kai Elenis.
For relaxing moments, we suggested going to the lovely paved square with its scenic taverns, while if you seek something more you can always go for a visit to the nearby village, Anilio which is separated by Makrirachi by a deep ravine called “Mega Rema”
You won’t regret visiting Makrirachi any season of the year. Its short distance from the Agrioleukes ski center and also from the beautiful Aegean beaches set it as an ideal destination for every season.
For swimming head to the beach of Agioi Saranta, regarded as one of the best in Pelion, featuring golden sandy beach, crystal clear waters and rocks around. It’s only 3km away from the village and was named after the small church of Agioi Saranta that exists there. Also very close is Ai Giannis and Papa Nero.
Finally, it’s good to know that during the summer months, the Womens horticultural association of Makrirachi organizes a horticultural exhibition where one can admire the various colors and francs and buy their favorite flowers. If you’re there at that time, it is worth supporting this effort!
