Dragon Houses Hiking, South Evia

A magical mystery tour!

Ohi mountain with a maximum altitude of 1.400m is situated on the most southern part of Evia.

Ohi, along with Dirfi and Kandili are the most important mountains on the island.

Ohi is particularly known due to its mysterious, ancient, giant rock constructions that locals call “Drakospita” (Dragon Houses). The most famous “dragon house” is built on the Ohi summit.

We meet at the village Mili, in Karystos and we drive (each one on his car) until the mountain lodge, the starting point of the trek. The route varies in difficulty levels, however, the impressive view and the cool fresh air boosts one with energy to continue walking.

One and a half hour later we reach the stone-built church of prophet Ilias, which is located near the Drakospito and the Ohi summit at 1.400m.

The mountain is like a balcony over the Aegean overlooking Karystos and, visibility permitting, one can see the mountains of Chios and Samos islands as well as the Peloponnese.

In ancient times Ohi mountain was a place of worship for goddess Ira and in current times this of prophet Ilias. Nature lovers must undoubtedly see and touch a Drakospito on the summit. The hike there is a unique experience for those who dare….

Interesting information about the Drakospita mystery: In south Evia, between the towns of Karystos and Stira, there are 25 peculiar buildings that locals call Drakospita.

Some say that they were built around the 12^th century B.C. whereas others claim that the houses were built around the 6^th century B.C.

These “dragon houses” are solid rock constructions without foundations or windows. To this day their use or purpose is still uncertain.

Could they have been homes to gods or humans?

Could they have served as tombs or shelters for stone cutters?

Temples or shepherds’ huts?

In either case, the fact that they are built near quarries leads to the conclusion that the Drakospita were temples dedicated to protecting god of stone cutters or semi-god Hercules, who is considered the epitome of strength.