Pelopi
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The village of Pelopi consisted of 17 villages, whose ruins can be found in the areas of Kambos and Paliochori, near the summit of Ai Ilias. The villages were scattered throughout the area due to the invasions of pirates that caused many problems. When the inhabitants, however, found a proper and forested area they abandoned their villages and built their houses there. They named this area “Gelia” (Laughter) because they no longer feared the pirates and their lives were joyous. A different version of the etymology says that the village was built on a spot where the rays of sun (Helius) shined on it and that is why it was named Ielia, and then renamed to Gelia. A third version mentioned that the village took its name from the numerous flocks (Ageles).  After World War II, and more specific in 1954, the village was again renamed to Pelopi, as it is named until today. There are two versions for the new name: According to the first one, the Turkish “Firmani” (decree) from Constantinople, named the village “Pelempe” and the second version asserts that the name derives from pel + opsis which means beautiful look. According to local tradition, King Pelopas also traversed this area.  The village of Pelopi is beautiful, located on one of the slopes of mount Lepetimnos, with a flume running through it, that few years ago gave life to the village. Flour mills, olive press, fields, all were generated and watered by this flume. Numerous little traditional cafes, lying under the shadow, give a rest to the visitors’ eye.  |
