Eptamyloi: Pontian History and Traditions

Eptamyloi is shaped by its Pontian history and the Church of Saint George. Built in 1925 by Pontian refugees, the church and the association “Οι Ακρίτες” offer two distinct insights into the history of the place: one is a tangible building, the other the preservation of traditions, customs and dances. When choosing cultural themes for your trip, you can take account of both historical connections and the significance of customs passed down through generations.

Pontian Traditions in Eptamyloi

The association “Οι Ακρίτες” aims to preserve Pontian traditions, customs and dances. It was founded in 1997 by Pontians from the former municipality of Eptamyloi. Its purpose and founding history tell different stories: the association’s purpose focuses on cultural continuity, while its founding records the founders’ connection with Eptamyloi.

A dated example of an event organised by the association is the 21st Cultural and Traditions Night with Pontian dishes, held on 12 November 2022. It took place at the association’s premises in Eptamyloi. The programme featured dishes from Pontian cuisine, live music and a traditional celebration. This specific event brought food and music together with a festive occasion; it can be seen as an example of the themes that came together at that event.

Cultural Sites in the Wider Serres Destination

Serres also offers a distinct cultural focus, from buildings dating to different periods to museums. The Holy Monastery of Timios Prodromos was built in 1270 and houses a museum of Byzantine art. The King’s Tower, also known as the Tower of Orestes, stands in the Acropolis of Serres: it was built around 1350 and is about 20 metres high. The Zincirli Mosque is located in the southwestern part of the city of Serres and is architecturally one of the late 16th-century Ottoman buildings attributed to the school of Sinan.

The churches in Serres also illustrate different historical periods. Saint George Krioneritis is a Byzantine church dating from the late 13th century. The Church of Saints Theodoroi dates from the 5th or 6th century AD; Saint Nicholas is located in the Acropolis of Serres. Together with the King’s Tower, these buildings invite visitors to consider both earlier Byzantine and Ottoman architecture when planning their trip.

The museums offer a different focus: the Sarakatsani Folklore Museum displays exhibits relating to Sarakatsani culture and has been in existence since 1979. The Serres Ecclesiastical Museum displays icons, silver artefacts, liturgical vestments and orphreys. The Olive Museum in Eleonas features an old olive mill, its machinery and methods of olive oil production from the 19th century. The cultural spectrum thus ranges from religious art and everyday culture to the history of olive oil production.

Regional Cuisine and Travel Interests

Serres’ culinary tradition includes buffalo meat and products such as cold cuts, sausages and kavourmas. Bougatsa from Serres has also been a hallmark of the city for decades. These regional specialities add a culinary aspect to the historical and museum-related themes, without requiring a particular place to sample them.

When looking for a holiday rental, your preferred focus for the trip can help guide your search: Eptamyloi combines Pontian traditions with the history of the Church of Saint George; the museums and buildings mentioned belong to the wider Serres destination. Consider which of these themes you would like to focus on and tailor your search accordingly.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Kerkini, Lygaria, Ano Vrontou, Amfipoli, Neo Petritsi, Alistráti, Chrisochorafa, Serres.

Back to the wider travel guide: Serres.