Nymphopetres: The Geological Park with Strange Rocks

Nymphopetra is a picturesque village located near the northwest tip of Thessaloniki. The village hosts a significant number of white stork nests, but it is more famous for its geological park nearby, which has been declared a Natural Monument. The ‘Nymphopetres’ consist of a series of upright travertine rocks with various shapes, resembling human figures, thus surrounded by local myths and legends. According to one local tale, during a wedding procession to the church, a bride remembered halfway that she had forgotten to take her dowry from her mother’s house, so she sent people back to fetch it. The bride was so greedy that she took everything from her mother, leaving nothing behind. Her mother became so enraged by her daughter’s greed that she cursed her, turning the bride and her entourage into stones. Another legend tells of a group of hunters who accidentally encountered a band of forest nymphs bathing in the crystal-clear waters of a spring. When the goddess Artemis discovered this disrespectful act, she turned them into stone where they stood. However, beyond these myths lies a scientific explanation for the formation of these strange rocks, which are thousands of years old. During prehistoric times, there was a lake in the area. Today, the Nymphopetres are one of the most unique and atmospheric natural monuments in Thessaloniki. They are not only a geological wonder but also a place chosen by newlyweds for photoshoots, and educational excursions and geological studies are held periodically.