Achilleio is a seaside village, spread out in a distinctive closed embrace of the Pteleos bay beach. It began to be inhabited around 1918. It originated from the village of Chamako, which, according to tradition, was named after Ali Pasha’s mother, Hamko, who used to spend her summers there. The ruins of the old settlement of Chamako, as well as remnants of an old windmill, can still be seen by visitors to the area.
The name Achilleio was given in 1844 to the village built by the local chieftain Ioannis Velentzas at the location “Trachili.” However, this site was quickly abandoned after the chieftain’s death, and the inhabitants initially returned to the old Chamako site, then (in 1915) to Kalyvia Chamako, and finally to the current location of the village. Archaeological findings (mosaic floors of Christian churches, capitals, columns, etc.) indicate that it had been inhabited since early Christian times. Other archaeological discoveries, such as box-shaped tombs found at the Xirorachi site, suggest that the area was inhabited even in pre-Christian times. During the Homeric era, the region belonged to the kingdom of Protesilaus, while local tradition, reinforced by the village’s name, associates it with the kingdom of Achilles, the first Homeric hero renowned for his bravery.
Today, Achilleio, built on a small cove at the exit of the Pagasetic Gulf, is a wonderful holiday settlement with clean, crystal-clear beaches. Its inhabitants are engaged almost exclusively in olive cultivation and small-scale farming, while visitors can enjoy not only their vacation but also a unique “journey” through the many rich monuments and attractions of the surrounding area. The Maritime Museum is certainly one of the places that must be visited. Additionally, the beach of Agios Dimitrios in Achilleio is a favorite destination for those who love fishing in pristine waters combined with unspoiled nature.
Since January 1, 2011, following the implementation of the new law on Municipalities and Communities (Kallikratis), Achilleio has been a Local Community of the Municipality of Almyros.