Description of the attraction
Ayyasos is a small pretty town in the southeastern part of the legendary Greek island of Lesvos. The settlement is nestled on the picturesque slopes of Mount Olympos, just 26 km from the island's capital, Mytilene, and is an important cultural and religious center of Lesvos.
Ayasos is an authentic Greek settlement with traditional architecture, narrow cobbled streets, ancient temples with elegant bell towers and a special unique flavor. The rich history of this old city, ancient traditions passed down from generation to generation, magnificent natural landscapes, a lot of attractions and an atmosphere of genuine cordiality and hospitality of local residents attract many tourists here every year. Ayasos is famous for its skilled craftsmen in pottery and wood carving, which have long been known far beyond the borders of Greece. You can still buy original products of local craftsmen in the shops and souvenir shops of Ayasos.
You should definitely visit the Church of Our Lady of Vrefokratousa, around which the settlement itself once grew. The three-aisled basilica with a magnificent collection of ancient icons, including the unique miraculous icon of the Virgin Vrefokratousa (4th century), is located in the very center of Ayasos and is one of its main attractions. Among the temples of Ayasos, it is also worth noting the Church of the Holy Trinity and the chapels of the Holy Apostles and Zoodochos Pigi.
You can get acquainted with the history of Ayasos culture by visiting the entertaining Museum of Folk Art, where you can see traditional costumes, textiles, embroidery, jewelry, ancient coins and much more. Equally interesting is the Church Museum with a very extensive collection of various church relics.
The picturesque surroundings of Ayasos deserve special attention. Lovers of long walks should climb the pine-covered peak of Kasteli. In addition to fantastic landscapes, along the way, you will see two small charming churches and the ruins of a medieval fortification. You can also walk to the Carini reservoir hidden in the shade of perennial plane trees, which has survived to this day since the Roman era.
After exploring the city and its surroundings, you can relax and enjoy traditional local cuisine in one of the cozy cafes on the Ayyasos Market Square.
