Pindus monasteries highlight historical heritage in Aspropotamos

The monumental monastic complex in the Aspropotamos region of Pindus is being highlighted for its historical and architectural significance. Krystallia Mantzana, Deputy General Director of the Ministry of Culture and Sports and head of the Trikala Ephorate of Antiquities, notes that many of these temples and monasteries are dedicated to saints or feasts celebrated during the summer months, reflecting the historical living conditions and seasonal movements of local populations.

In the village of Chalki, at an altitude of 1,150 meters, lies the Church of Agia Paraskevi. This large three-aisled basilica features a covered portico and an intricate wood-carved iconostasis, though the latter suffered poor restoration efforts in the 1960s. The church preserves frescoes signed by the painter Dimitrios of Samarina dating to 1748. Additionally, an inscription mentions Nikolaos Dimakidis, a figure described in local tradition as a harsh local ruler. An icon of Agia Paraskevi dated 1627 confirms the temple's historical renovation.