Palaioseli

Palaioseli is built at an altitude of 1080m on the southern slopes of Smolikas between pine and oak forests. The village is 31 km away from Konitsa and it is worth making a stop on the way to the villages of Lakka Aoos.

The village is characterized by many running waters, dense vegetation as well as an impressive view of the peaks of Tymfi. One of the main characteristics of the inhabitants of Palaioseli (as well as of the other neighbouring villages of Lakka Aoos) is their specialization in professions that are directly related to the exploitation of forests (lumberjacks, saw operators etc.). Among other things, they are engaged in agriculture and some are millers.

The history of the village is important. It was in the center of important battles during the 1940s and the German occupation. Only the church of Agia Paraskevi remained intact. The church dates from 1864. It is a three-aisled wooden-roof basilica with a narthex at the south entrance. The interior of the church is impressive with 19th century frescoes, beautiful iconostasis, remarkable icons, as well as a wood-carved ceiling (1781). It is a monument which is definitely worth visiting.

Walking along the narrow streets of the village, you will be enchanted by the stone houses, the building of the Primary School and mainly with the centuries-old plane tree in the paved square of the village and the ornate fountain next to it. It is also worth visiting the watermill of Kapetis, which is located relatively close to Konitsa. This watermill operated and offered its services until the end of the 70’s and today it has been reconstructed. It is of Byzantine or Eastern type and according to information, it was built in the distant 1846. It has been built on a slope in such a way so as to take advantage of the impetuous force of the water during its fall.

Palaioseli is ideal for nature lovers but also for those who want to escape from the noise of the city. In the northern part of the village, in the place of “Nane”, at an altitude of 1660m, a wooden shelter is built. It has a capacity to accommodate 20 people. A little higher and at an altitude of 1750m is the new stone shelter with a capacity of 30 people. The new shelter has a fireplace, dormitories for accommodation and organized kitchen where food is offered. The new shelter is open all summer and by appointment in winter. To reach the shelters, there is a 5 km and 7 km long dirt road. You can also follow the hiking trail which is about 2 hours away from the village. 

In the village, there are appropriate facilities for food. Every year on the 15th of August, the traditional festival is organized.