The Averoff Gardens in Metsovo, Greece, offer visitors more than just a natural retreat; they are a window into the town’s rich history and culture. Situated a short walk above the main square, the gardens offer an unparalleled view of the Pindos National Park. They are named after Georgios Averoff, one of Greece’s greatest benefactors and a native of Metsovo, who made his fortune in Egypt.
The gardens are a tribute to the region’s natural beauty, featuring a variety of trees and plants that are native to the Pindos Mountains. At the heart of the gardens stands the church of St George (or Agios Georgios), a significant historical and religious monument. It was in this church that Georgios Averoff prayed before leaving for Alexandria in Egypt in 1837.
Averoff’s impact on Metsovo is immense. After the town was destroyed following an uprising against the Ottomans in 1854, Averoff funded its reconstruction. His contributions extended beyond Metsovo; he also funded numerous schools, refurbished Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium before the first modern Olympics in 1896, and even funded Greece’s premier battleship at the time.
The current layout of the Averoff Gardens was designed by a gardener from Alexandria whom Averoff sent specifically for this purpose. The church within the gardens is a basilica that houses icons dating back to the early 18th century, adding another layer of historical and cultural depth to this already significant site.
Visiting the Averoff Gardens provides an enriching experience that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural depth, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Metsovo.
