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The community of Lihada covers the biggest part of the Lihada
Penisula in Northern Evia. When looking at a map of Evia, you
can see that the peninsula gives a distinctive form of shape to
that of Evia. The name of the region comes from Lihas, servant
of Hercules, who without knowing and intending, caused his masters
death.
Hercules was at mount Keaneon offering a sacrifice to his father
Zeus, after destroying the ancient city Oehalea. According the
myth, Lihas was sent from Deianheira Herculess wife, bringing
a hiton ( robe ), which was imbueted with the poisonous blad of
Centaur Nessos.
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Deiahnera following Nessos advice sent this
magic robe to Hercules, hoping that he would love her and be faithful
to her forever. What she didnt know though, was that Nessos
was planning to destroy Hercules, and he used her without showing
his real motives.
When Hercules wear the robe the poison came in contact with his
flesh, so he started suffering in great pain. In pain, Hercules
grabbed and throws the unsuspicious servant towards the sea.
The pieces of the dismantled body of Lihas fall on the sea around
the Keaneon, where Poseidon, transformed them in to small islands.
These islands were named Lihadonisia and the peninsula area named
Lihada. According to the myths, the small island of Strogyli is
identified with Lihass head. |
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The area of Lihada was inhabited constantly since the Neolithic
period, and was always present during the historical events of
the ancient and new history of Greece. Many archeological researchers
believe that the Keaneon Zeus sanctuary is situated at the cape
of Keaneon, at the position of Agios Konstantinos, while the chapel
of the saints "Konstantinos" and "Helen",
were used for ancient building materials.
From the spot where the church is situated is a road that leads
to mountainous paths of the Lihada peninsula. From the Venetian
castle ( Pyrgos ) you can be lead to the deserted village of Paleohori
( Old village ), which is presumed to be one of the oldest of
Lihada.
Walking up hill from the Pyrgos and the ruins of Paleohori, you
will meet at the top of the hill the Post Byzantine temple of
Prophet Helias. From this spot the view is magnificent, with the
whole area covered in pine trees and rich fauna. The whole mountainous
area from Lihada up to Yaltra, is ideal for trekking and 4x4 routes,
through beautiful sceneries and charming forests.
Walking outwards of Lihada, you will meet many chapels and also
the deserted temple of Saint Vlasis, built in the 12th century,
close to a picturesque bay with the same name, Agios Vlasis.
For visitors to Lihadi, there are many beautiful villages and
towns that one can visit, and where you will find a lovely selection
of accommodation available. There are also some perfect beaches
in Lihadi, where you can spend great summer holidays, enjoying
the beach and sun.
The region is well catered for tourism, and also has a wonderful
selection of tavernas and restaurants where one can enjoy a tasty
home cooked meal, including a variety of fresh sea food. There
is also a selection of cafe bars where one can enjoy a refreshing
drink, and sit back and enjoy the inspiring and magical landscape
all around.
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