Introduction: Caryatis in Thessaly, Greece
I embarked on a fascinating journey to Thessaly Greece (Thessalía - Θεσσαλία, Central Greece), to capture the essence of its traditional costumes for my black-and-white photo project, Caryatis. This trip allowed me to discover the rich cultural heritage of the region, immortalizing the intricate designs and vibrant history of local folklore dresses. Each location provided unique opportunities and challenges, making the experience unforgettable.
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Thessaly region takes a big part of Greece's center, and is home to Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Greece. It is a region with beautiful mountains, including the mountain of the Centaurs, Pelion, according to Greek mythology. Thessalians do not miss the beach either, since there are many lovely beaches around Pelion. Sporades islands are also part of this region. Some of the important cities and towns include Larissa, Karditsa and Trikala. The latter is a beautiful town near the majestic Meteora rocks. Meteora is a top tourist destination because of the monasteries hanging on these rock formations. There is also Volos, the port that is the entrance to the Magnesia Gulf and Pelion. Of course, you shouldn't miss having the halva of Pharsalus, although there is a love-it-or-hate-it approach to this delicacy. Landscape photographers should finally pay a visit to the Plastiras Lake, a place with unparalleled natural beauty.
You can click on any clickable image to learn more or acquire a museum-grade print for your space from Thessaly. This way you help towards the realization of important ethnographic work. Or visit the full print collection from Thessaly.
Trikeri
Trikeri is a hidden gem located in Greece, off the beaten path of traditional tourist destinations. This picturesque village offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Whether you spend your days exploring the surrounding olive groves, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or simply savoring delicious Greek cuisine at the local tavernas, Trikeri is a place that will capture your heart and leave you wanting to come back for more.
A Hidden “Islandic” Gem
Trikeri is a remote village, surrounded by the Aegean Sea. In the old times, Trikeri was no different than a Greek island. Historically, there was no road connection, and people relied on boats, fostering a unique maritime culture, including a tradition of sponge gathering. My day in Trikeri began early, meeting a local group who would assist me in photographing the traditional costumes. I had a nice Greek coffee at the local café in the central square while waiting for my new friends.
Photographing Tradition
We chose a local house that had preserved its traditional character as our setting. The owner of this house is the lady you see in black, Lena. I waited in the beautiful home's yard for the ladies to wear their clothes, while having one more Greek coffee with a local, and chatted about everyday life in Thessaly. The authentic interior provided the perfect backdrop for the photos. The women donned their intricate costumes, and I captured the essence of their heritage through my lens. After wrapping up the shoot, I drove to Trikeri's port and indulged in delicious seafood, a delightful reward for a fruitful day.
