13.01.2023
Zirelia Lakes

The Zirelia Lakes, near Exeinoupoli, are a wetland of significant environmental interest. On a nearby hill (Zirelia mound), a prehistoric acropolis has been identified, contemporary with the settlements at Dimini and Sesklo. Recent scientific research has shown that the Zirelia lakes were formed by meteorites that fell to Earth.

From approximately the middle of the southern ring road of Exeinoupoli, a rural road begins heading south. After crossing a river, its direction turns west, continuing through the fields. About three kilometers further, it passes by two small lakes—the Zirelia Lakes.

This area is one of the most remarkable spots in the region, and it is a missed opportunity for visitors to Almyros if they do not visit it. It combines three distinct features: a) it is a rare geological phenomenon, b) it is a small but unique wetland, and c) there is a significant archaeological site between the lakes.

There are two circular lakes. The larger one (west) has a diameter of 300 m, and the smaller one has a diameter of 250 m. They are situated at an altitude of 130 m above sea level, with their centers 500 m apart. Their bowl-shaped bottoms reach a maximum depth of 10.5 m for the larger lake and 9.5 m for the smaller one.
Their formation is relatively recent and is solely due to gas eruptions; in other words, it was the beginning of a volcanic formation, which, in this case, did not continue. The craters formed by the eruptions were later filled with water, creating Maars-type lakes.

East of the larger lake, there is a small hill that has been used by humans for settlement for centuries. Over time, a mound (Magoula) developed at that spot. Archaeological excavations from the early 20th century revealed eight distinct levels of settlement and habitation dating back to the Neolithic period.

Today, two exploratory archaeological trenches are ongoing: one by the 13th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities and one by the University of Thessaly. We believe that upon the completion of these two excavations, we will know the history of this site with accuracy, which undoubtedly is directly related to the development of the wider region.

The shores of the lakes are covered with aquatic vegetation forming fairly thick rings, within which fish live. This vegetation, by providing food and shelter, has created wetland conditions that attract thousands of birds. If one is there at sunset, just before nightfall, when the birds settle, they will have the pleasure of enjoying a symphony of chirping from thousands of birds, while in front of them the entire Krokio plain, the Pagasetic Gulf, and Pelion will unfold.

From the Almyros – IN ACTION video, March 2008