In this article we will present you a very beautiful destination in Macedonia and what to see in Goumenissa
Goumenissa is one of the most beautiful places in Kilkis prefecture. It is known for its wines, if you have a chance to visit a winery, for its famous musical “Halkina” and for its popular women’s cooperative with its wonderful jams. But few people have visited this part of Kilkis. And yet it is so close to Thessaloniki. A perfect place for a day trip, and not only because it is worth our attention to do more in the area and get to know it better.
Okay, I know. If I don’t praise my house, it will fall down on me. But in this case the above saying doesn’t apply. Goumenissa has so many beautiful things to see and do. And there’s so much history in this little town.
A little history about Goumenissa
From the time of Herodotus, who refers extensively to the adventures of the Peyans. The first mention of the name Goumenissa is in 1346. The inhabitants of Goumenissa fought important battles in the Macedonian Struggle and the First World War, making Goumenissa one of the most historic regions of Macedonia.
What to see in Goumenissa – Attractions
Just take a walk and explore the town and you will find many gems that will surely fascinate you.
In Goumenissa you will find 108 listed buildings, many of which are examples of Macedonian architecture. Unfortunately, most of them with few examples of restoration. We had a delightful walk through the narrow streets of the “old town” of Goumenissa and couldn’t stop poking our heads into the old courtyards and taking pictures of the brick buildings with wooden beams.
Its most famous place is of course the central square of Thanos Zelegou. Another square is that of October 23rd. A historical date for Goumenissa, as it is the date of its liberation (10/23/1912) from the Turks. Around both squares there are many cafes & restaurants.
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In the middle of the main square there is a large fountain which was built by the French allies in 1918, during the First World War, as a commemoration of their passage through the area and it reads “PASSAGER SOUVIENS-TOI LE SOLDAT FRANCAIS”.
On the way to the square you’ll also see a large building, the Historical School (1882 – 1894). It housed the Greek schools of Goumenissa.
We should note that at the exit of the city is the ruined silk mill Chrysalis. It was built in 1920 and was an important part of the economic development of the region and one of the best silk mill in the Balkans. The machinery remains in the building and we hope that one day it will become the museum it deserves.
Two Rivers & nearby excursions in the area
Just 2km from the small town of Goumenissa there is a wonderful place, The Two Rivers. A place for walks, hikes and picnics. The place is crossed by two streams that form small waterfalls making the natural landscape magical. And all this is complemented by beautiful wooden bridges, century-old plane and oak trees.
The trails are in very good condition, apart from the seasonal fallen leaves, and you won’t get lost.
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Read also:
Byzantine Hammam in Agistro Serres: Relaxation in the oldest hammam
A trip to the municipality of Paionia
Also very close to Goumenissa are the waterfalls of Skra with the wonderful Blue Lake, a dreamy place. Other activities you can do in the area, besides hiking on Mount Paiko, is to get to know the beautiful villages of Skra, Kastaneri, Grivas and Livadia.
Goumenissa is a place I love very much, as I have wonderful family memories of our Sunday outings when I was a child. I was delighted to be back after all these years, and of course now with an abundance of desire to explore more of the area.
