The Veroia region is actually known for producing fruits and vegetables, thanks to the large planes that stretch across this part of Macedonia. Delicious peaches, cherries, apples and pears grow in their respective seasons, contributing to the local recipes and desserts of the different communities (Greeks from Asia Minor, Vlachs, Pontians) who have settled here over the last couple of centuries. While the area is also known for meat, pork and game hunting, we urge you to order the delicious vegetarian (and some vegan) dishes such as the broad bean stove-top dish called Fasoulontavas, the savory Vlach nettle pie, and of course the spinach pie. In fact the region is known for its savory pies such as leek pie (prasopita), Sauteed mushrooms, boiled greens, and leafy green salad are also part of the local cuisine. Batzos is one of the local sheep’s milk cheeses here, a white semi-hard cheese originating in the region’s mountains and surprisingly low in fat, served in pies or grilled. It also features in a local dish called Matza, made with a medley of fried red bell pepper and eggplant.

Pixabay - rugilepask

Sweeten your tooth with the area’s well-known semolina cake, Ravani, as well as the more unique Kores of Naoussa, a dessert made from sweet pumpkin cooked in a petimezi (grape molasses) and often served on a local type of cornbread. Yum!

Pixabay - ulleo

The region of Imathia was mentioned in Homer’s classics and featured a prehistoric/Neolithic civilization (Nea Nicomideia) dating from 6250 BC – one of the first inhabited regions in the country. This makes the 8th century BC settlements from Macedonian times seem modern by comparison. The archeological museum of Veroia boasts finds from Nea Nikomideia and another notable ancient site called Polyplatanos. From jewelry and weapons to sculptures and vases, the museum will delight amateur and professional alike.

That said, you must definitely visit Aegae or Aigai, the first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia and where the Royal Tombs Museum lies today. The impressive tombs lie under earth mounds and are now part of an impressive museum.

In the time of Christ, it is reported that the Apostle Paul visited Imathia to preach to the Hebrews. Today, noteworthy monasteries such as Panagia Soumela, Panagia Dovra and Saint George Peristeriotas stand witness to the Byzantine Christian tradition in Imathia. The Byzantine museum of the city of Veroia is definitely worth checking out.