Discover the Springs of Aravissos

If you start your journey from Giannitsa and head west towards the picturesque mountain Paiko, you will reach its lush southern slopes. There, you will discover one of the most important and impressive sights of the Pella prefecture: the magnificent Springs of Aravissos. This location is not just a point of natural beauty, but a living organism that connects nature, history and the daily life of the wider area, constituting one of the hidden treasures presented by the Visi Pella guide.

The Heart of Thessaloniki’s Water Supply

The Springs of Aravissos play a vital role for the entire city of Thessaloniki. Here, a modern pumping station harnesses the wealth of water, supplying the capital of Northern Greece with drinking water. It is truly impressive to think that 11 boreholes continuously pump 4,700 cubic meters of water every hour! All this precious water load is methodically concentrated in three special wells, and from there, through an extensive pipeline, it is seamlessly transported to the city of Thessaloniki, ensuring its daily water supply. This function makes the springs a technological marvel, but also an integral pillar of life in the region.

A Paradise of Nature and Recreation

Beyond their useful role in water supply, the Springs of Aravissos compose a unique natural landscape that invites exploration and relaxation. The imposing Plane Tree of the Spring, with its dense shade, is a point of reference and coolness, while other smaller springs and a picturesque river cross the area. This complex creates a rich, hospitable and shady environment, ideal for a walk, a picnic or simply to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature. The sound of running water, the smell of moist soil and the lush vegetation offer a sense of peace and rejuvenation.

Deep Roots in History: From the Neolithic Age to the Romans

The importance of the Arabissos region is not limited to its natural beauty and its water-supplying role. People have recognized the value of abundant water and fertile land since ancient times, as early as the Neolithic era. This is evidenced by the discovery of an ancient settlement at the site of “Toumba”, which dates back to the 4th millennium BC and exceeded 100 acres in area, testifying to the intense human presence since the depths of the centuries.

Just north of this prehistoric settlement, on the hill called Paleokastro, was a Hellenistic city, known to the historian Thucydides as Kyrros. The continuous habitation of the area is also confirmed during the Roman and Byzantine periods, through important archaeological finds: a late Hellenistic statuette of Apollo playing the guitar, Roman marble inscriptions that reveal the daily life and organization of the city, as well as a preserved medieval wall, which adds another layer to the rich history of the place.

Roman Remains and Ongoing Excavations

Archaeological research continues to bring to light hidden treasures. Approximately 1.5 kilometers from Paleokastro, in the early 1980s, excavations revealed an impressive Roman building with an inner courtyard. From its architectural construction, the quality of the floors and especially the coins found, it dates from the 1st century BC to the early 5th century AD, offering valuable information about everyday life and the development of the Roman period in the area.

The Springs of Aravissos are a fascinating point of interest for any traveler who wishes to combine natural beauty with rich history. It is one of the attractions of the Municipality of Pella that you should definitely include in your itinerary. Discover more in the Visi Pella guide and get ready for a trip that will be unforgettable!