Katerini

Historical roots: between faith and transformation

The history of Katerini is a mosaic of influences layered over the centuries. Although traces of ancient settlements are numerous in the surrounding area, the modern city began to take clearer shape during the period of Ottoman rule, when it was known as Haterini. A defining turning point came in 1912, with the liberation of the city and its annexation to the Greek state, followed a few years later by the massive influx of Greek refugees from Asia Minor and Pontus after the population exchange of 1923. This event profoundly shaped Katerini's social and cultural identity, bringing new traditions, flavours and a work ethic that accelerated the region's post-war economic development. Today, the city presents itself as a proud custodian of its own past, capable of honouring the memory of its forebears through cultural institutions and monuments that recount a thousand-year-old resilience.

The Municipal Park: an urban oasis

A true green lung of the city, Katerini's Municipal Park is a masterful example of how public space can elevate the quality of urban life. Spread over several hectares, the park is characterised by lush vegetation, small pools of water, dancing fountains and pedestrian paths that invite long, rejuvenating walks. It is the place where families gather at weekends and where young people meet at the cafés dotting its edges. Throughout the year, the park becomes a natural stage for cultural events, open-air concerts and Christmas markets, becoming the centre of the city's social life. The care with which it is maintained testifies to the residents' love of nature, offering a cool, shaded refuge even during Macedonia's hot summer days.

Ancient Dion: the sacred city of the Macedonians

A few kilometres from Katerini lies the archaeological site of Dion, one of the most evocative places in all of Greece. An ancient sacred city dedicated to Zeus and the gods of Olympus, Dion was the religious centre of the Kingdom of Macedonia, where Philip II and Alexander the Great celebrated victories and offered sacrifices. The archaeological park is extraordinary because it unites monumental remains with a watery natural setting: the sanctuaries of Isis and Demeter literally emerge from spring-fed waters, creating a mystical, surreal atmosphere. Walking among the remains of the ancient theatre, the Roman villas with their splendid mosaics and the baths, one has the sense that time itself has stopped. The adjacent museum houses the Hydraulis, one of the world's oldest keyboard musical instruments, rounding out a cultural experience that alone makes the trip to this region worthwhile.

Paralia Katerinis and the Olympic Riviera

Katerini's seaside face is found at Paralia, a coastal district just six kilometres from the centre. Characterised by a very long stretch of golden sandy beach and shallow waters, Paralia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in northern Greece. The seafront is an unbroken succession of hotels, seafood restaurants, fur boutiques (a local tradition) and nightspots that draw visitors from all over Europe. Despite its strong tourist character, Paralia's harbour retains an authentic charm early in the morning, when fishermen return with the day's catch. The nearby beach of Olympiaki Akti, connected by a pleasant cycling and pedestrian path, offers a slightly quieter atmosphere, ideal for those seeking relaxation without giving up the amenities of a modern seaside resort.

Traditions and flavours of Pieria

Katerini's cuisine is a happy union of the land's produce and the treasures of the sea. The Pieria region is famous for producing top-quality kiwis, cherries and chestnuts, often found in local markets. Traditional cheeses such as feta and manouri are always on the table, accompanied by the celebrated local tsipouro, a strong, fragrant spirit often flavoured with anise. In the tavernas of Paralia, fresh fish takes centre stage, simply grilled or cooked in a light stew, while inland, meat dishes such as souvlaki and kleftiko, slow-cooked in wood-fired ovens, reign supreme. One cannot leave Katerini without tasting the syrupy sweets typical of Macedonian tradition, a legacy of the Greek communities of Asia Minor, which end every meal on a note of sweetness and hospitality.

• Exploring the archaeological site of Dion early in the morning to enjoy the magical light among the ruins.
• Walking the trail through the Enipeas Gorge starting from Litochoro to admire the waterfalls of Olympus.
• Enjoying a sunset from the walls of Platamon Castle looking out over the Aegean Sea.
• Tasting fresh mussels from Makrygialos at one of the harbourside tavernas.
• Visiting the traditional village of Elatochori to discover the region's mountain and ski side.
• Strolling through Katerini's weekly market to buy local honey and spices.