Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus at 2917 meters high is the highest mountain in Greece. It is surrounded by deep chasms and its summit is covered in snow. Mount Olympus is located on the east coast of mainland Greece, near the Aegean Sea. Mount Olympus is part of a mountain range that runs north to Bulgaria and south to Turkey. The border of Thessaly and Macedonia runs along this chain.

General information

According to Greek mythology, Mount Olympus is the place where Gaea gave birth to the Titans. They were so great that the mountains of Greece served as their thrones, and Kron, the most powerful of the titans, sat on Mount Olympus. Olympus later became the home of the ancient Greek gods. According to Homer, they dwelt in crystal palaces on top of the mountain, fed on nectar and ambrosia, the “food of the gods” that gave them immortality.

Alexander the Great came here before starting his military campaigns to offer sacrifices at the foot of Olympus.

Olympus is not only a historical and mythological symbol, but also a natural monument. Located within the nome of Pieria and partly within the nome of Larissa Thessaly, the National Reserve of Olympus is characterized by a huge diversity of flora and fauna. There are 1700 plant species, which corresponds to 25% of all species found in Greece. 23 of them are endemic species, i.e. species found only here. The fauna is represented by 8 species of amphibians, 22 species of reptiles, 32 species of wild mammals, and 136 species of birds.

The city of Litochoro, meaning “City of the Gods” is the usual starting point for any climb to Olympus. It will take 2 days to ascend and descend – although experienced hikers can wrap up in one day. Shelters are set up along the trails where you can spend the night. A beautiful area of pristine beauty. There are 1,700 plant species, with some found only here.