Petra

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Petra

Petra is located at the northwest tip of the island, 55 km from the city of Mytilene and very close to Molyvos. The landmark of the village is the church of Panagia Glykofiloussa, built on a 40-metre-high rock. It is one of the most important pilgrimages of the whole island with a breattaking view from the top. To go up to the church you have to climb up 114 carved steps. The village is named after that rock (Petra = rock in Greek). The area of Petra has been inhabited since ancient times, as can be seen from the tombs revealed on the Keramidaria site.

Well-preserved mansions of the 19th and the 20th century and picturesque cobbled pathways that lead to the church of Panagia compose the image of the village. Panagia Glyfofiloussa celebrates on the 15th of August. On that day people from all over the island come on foot to honor Virgin Mary and then to take part in the big fiesta organized in the main square with local music and dances. Petra also attracts a large number of believers the Good Friday (Easter) where the Epitaph goes around the paved narrow streets of the village. The mansion of Vareltzidena, near the main square, which today serves as a museum, is characterized as unique in Lesvos due to its interior design and its beautiful frescoes.

After dark, Petra develops a sociable nightlife scene focused around its traditional seafront tavernas. The beach is one of the largest and most organized beaches on the island ideal for swimming and water sports. Directly opposite of the beach are the uninhabited islets of Ai Giorgis, Mikro Nisi, Glaronisi and Myrmigi which are a protected wild bird area and act as ecological observatories. The area of Petra is one of the most tourist developed areas in the island. There you can find many hotels, rooms to let, restaurants and a very organized Agricultural Women’s Association providing many local products and daily freshly cooked food.

Not far from Petra lies the small coastal village of Anaxos with its sandy beach and Petri a typical traditional mountain settlement from where you can enjoy stunning sunsets. Moreover, the village boasts a fountain known as the “Achilles’ Fountain”. According to tradition that was the source from where it is said that the mythical hero Achilles drank water. There are more picturesque villages nearby like Lafiona, Skoutaros, Stypsi and Ypsilometopo.

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