Kremmydia: The Greek Village That Made It Into the Guinness Book

Several places in our country attract visitors mainly due to their architecture, history, and rich natural landscapes. However, there is one village that stands out from the rest as it entered the Guinness Book of Records about 25 years ago—an achievement unmatched by any other place in Greece. Kremmydia, located in the Messinia region and administratively part of the municipality of Pylos-Nestoras, is approximately 15 km from Pylos and 40 km from Kalamata. Situated at an altitude of 322 meters in the Pylia area, this village has around 500 residents and originated from the union of three older settlements: Fourtzi or Froutzi (renamed Velanidia or Velanidia in 1927), Ano Kremmydia, and Kato Kremmydia, with its oldest settlement dating back to the Venetian era. Despite its name suggesting a connection to onions, this is not why it made it into the Guinness Book. Most villagers are engaged in agriculture and livestock farming, yet they achieved significant success. In 1999, the village was recognized in the Guinness Book for having the highest percentage of science degree holders (about 30%) among its population. From the opening of the local school in 1893 until 1999, the village produced over 810 graduates. Unfortunately, a few years ago, the only primary school closed due to a lack of students. Visitors can enjoy traditional Messinian cuisine in the village. Besides the historic houses and the old primary school building, the Holy Temple of the Dormition of the Mother of God stands out, belonging to the Holy Metropolis of Messinia. Nearby attractions include the Tomb of Kamini, a significant archaeological site from the Middle Helladic and Mycenaean periods (circa 2200 BC to 1200 BC). Just 500 meters away lies the Fourtzi spring, while the Malakasa ravine runs west of the village.