A town with a tale to tell
Discover it for yourself
The story of Naoussa goes back to ancient Macedonian times, where a young prince Alexander would learn from the wisdom of Aristotle before overcoming the known world, with the wisdom he had gained. Since then Naoussa has gone through various evolutions, from a Roman colony (where it got its name), a famous last stand against the ruling Ottoman empire, a proud textiles giant and fine wineries; all creating stories, traditions and identity for what has now become a modern town ready to reveal its story. Enter. The door is already open.
A carnival, the likes of which, you won’t see anywhere else
The carnival season of Naoussa is something really quite extraordinary. Combining ancient Dionysian fertility celebrations and heroic fights throughout history, the “Boules” is rich in costume, music, dance and celebration and has remained unchained for centuries. It is celebrated at the beginning of Greek Lent and at its heart has the recognition of young men coming of age, being called out by the other men of the town to fight together for their freedom. You won't want to miss a thing.
Freedom comes at a price
A story that defines Naoussa
Our freedom is something much of us take for granted, since many of us have never had it seriously threatened. In February 1822 Naoussa was the site of a rebellion that was put down by the occupying Ottoman forces in April. At "Stoumbani" nine woman of the town valued freedom above life itself preferring to be thrown together with their children into the rushing waters of the Arapitsa, the river that runs through the city of Naoussa, than be enslaved again. In their honour Naoussa is now called "Heroic town of Naoussa."
Reclothing a reborn Greece
Reclothing a reborn nation
Textiles became the industrial powerhouse of Naoussa, employing 4,500 alone. So large was the industry that it was called Manchester of the Balkans. The first spinning mill in Greece and the Balkans was erected there in 1874 from which a nation could not just adequately, but proudly cloth itself once again. The factories have closed now, but their history, impact and even their buildings continue to live on and shape today's story of the town. Read more about this fascinating period in Naoussa's history from the town's mayor, himself.
The home of a renowned international film festival
The story of the town's young people who really made a difference
Naoussa may be an average sized town, but it's film festival, running since 2003, is the biggest digital cinema in South Eastern Europe and the biggest short film festival in Greece. It was brought to life by young locals who wanted to liven their town up more.
Over the five days more than 200 films are screened from all over the world. Every year between 100 and 150 young volunteers oversee its smooth running as many parallel events such as concerts and exhibitions all combine to make each festival a real event. Visit the site and the latest festival video to get a better idea of what really goes on.
Unravelling the past
Visit Naoussa's museums
Naoussa’s museums offer you the glimpse into the Naoussa story as seen through the eyes of the Naoussans themselves. Delve into the tradition of the “Boules” or get to grips with why Naoussa was willing and able to take the last stand against the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. Just stroll through their doors to piece together a story you can learn from.
Been there, seen it, now you can read the book!
Naoussa's has a fascinating past that when you start getting to know it, you won't want to stop until you can piece together the whole story. For those of you who can read Greek a book was written, "A New Town" to really satisfy the keenest mind. You won't have to wait too long for an English copy, so check back here periodically. Until then download the Greek version.
