Vamvakou, Laconia Greece

Vamvakou is a village in the heart of Parnonas Mountain; one of the two mountains that dominate the landscape of Laconia. The history of the village goes back to the 15th century when it was created there, in order for the inhabitants to find safety in a mountainous and inaccessible area. The tradition says that the name of Vamvakou comes from Vamvakia, the name of a resident of the area, while it may also indicate there the cultivation of cotton (vamvaki in greek).
 
The inhabitants of Vamvakou, which were 1,345 in 1853, currently number 6 permanent residents. Internal and external migration, since the late 19th century, has significantly affected the village and caused the loss of its human capital.
 
During the German-Italian occupation, the area of ​​Parnonas became an important center of resistance against the conquerors. With the withdrawal of the occupying troops, the area suffered - once again - during the Civil war. After the end of the war, the region did not manage to recover.
 
The area owes much to the migrants who, originating from Vamvacou, traveled to foreign countries but did not forget their homeland. Thus, in various phases of the history of the village, from the past till the present, families like the one of Ioannis Koumantaros, George Tsochonis and Spyros and Stavros Niarchos have greatly benefited the village.
 
Among the attractions that visitors of Vamvakou can see is the main church dedicated to the Assumption of Virgin Mary, the central clock of the village, the monument for the victims of the period 1941-1949 along with the traditional architecture present in various villages of Parnonas.
 
The Teaching School of the Poetry and Folktale Academy is located just next to the village square, while our activities extend throughout the village with the placement, in various places, of wooden plaques with proverbs, poems’ quotes, exhibits related to folktale etc.

Distances
from Sparta approx. 55 km (1 hour)
from Tripoli approx. 50 km (1 hour)
from Kalamata approx. 130 km (2 hours)
from Patras approx. 250 km (3 hours)
from Athens approx. 200 km (2.5 hours)
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Area of Parnonas Mountain
Vamvakou is located within the Protected Area of Mount Parnon and Moustos wetland. More information can be found on the website of the Management Body of Mount Parnon and Moustos wetland.

Discover Vamvakou within the framework of organized guided tours that are designed for all ages and groups and include the narration of folktales and poems.