A meeting of tradition and history in Chrisso, Phocis, a village hidden at the foot of Mount Parnassus.
Just a few kilometers from majestic Delphi at the foot of Parnassos, Chrisso remains untouched by mass tourism and crowds. It is a beautiful preserved village with restored houses with tiled roofs and well-tended gardens, with a long history dating back to antiquity.
Chrisso took its name from the ancient city of Krisa, which was built – according to Homer – in the 14th or 15th century BC, and south of today’s village the ruins of its walls survive. The Krisaean Plain stretches across the olive-filled lowlands that reach the sea at Itea. In antiquity the Hippodrome of Delphi was located there. The village’s permanent residents are engaged in olive cultivation, either to meet their own needs or for professional purposes.
Chrisso’s heart beats in the central square with its centuries-old plane tree and running water that brings coolness to the residents. This quiet village is an ideal outing for those seeking tranquility away from the crowds or a lovely stop while visiting the surrounding areas. Stroll its narrow lanes, admire the beautiful houses, pause to enjoy the view as far as Itea and the sea, and sit at the traditional tavernas for food.
Chrisso Ethnological Folklore Museum
One of the village’s most important sights is the Chrisso Ethnological Folklore Museum - Ilias E. Daradimos Collection, which stands out for its architecture and more. The neoclassical building served as the village’s school until 1978. It was likely founded in the 1890s, following the model of the first schools built by Ioannis Kapodistrias. Since the end of 2015 it has operated as a museum with a large collection of objects that bear witness to the area’s history and daily life.
A highlight is the collection of 200 Greek costumes from the pre-revolutionary, revolutionary, and Othonian periods up to the first decades of the 20th century. They are considered unique in quality and variety, while the embroidery and color combinations make them distinctive.
Prophet Elias Monastery, Phocis
About 7 kilometers northwest of the village lies the Monastery of Prophet Elias, built at an altitude of about 500 m. above the olive grove of Amfissa, with wonderful views toward the Gulf of Corinth. The monastery is known from the years of the 1821 Revolution, as it served as a base and refuge for the fighters of Eastern Central Greece until August 1825. After two destructions, the church was rebuilt on the same site in the 1960s. Today you will admire its carved wooden iconostasis as well as handwritten documents and letters from the period of the revolution.
Nearby excursions from Chrisso
Chrisso is an ideal base for trips to the surrounding villages. The village of Delphi is 10 minutes away by car and Arachova about 20 minutes. The area’s most important attraction is the imposing archaeological site of Delphi, one of the most significant in Greece. Setting off from the village, you can explore the vast Olive Grove of Amfissa and reach its town. For a seaside stroll, there is Itea with its beach, as well as nearby Galaxidi.
Activities in nature
In Chrisso you will have the chance for hiking and walks in nature, on trails that lead to landscapes of unique beauty. On Parnassos you can hike, among others, the ancient Kirra–Delphi path, the Delphi – Corycian Cave trail, or the popular E4, the famed European trail that links Agoriani with Delphi through the impressive fir forest. In addition, for those who love action there are opportunities for climbing at the Amfissa climbing area.
Food
The local cuisine is based on pure ingredients and traditional recipes. In the village tavernas you will taste local meze prepared with the area’s famed olive oil and meat dishes. Try kontosouvli and burgers at Fourlas taverna with views all the way to the sea and kokoretsi at Taverna Basanos. Take a seat on the balcony of Liostasi taverna for sausages and chops and for traditional home-cooked dishes at Restaurant-Cafe Peinakothiki.
Accommodation
Chrisso Guesthouse: Features traditional rooms with a fireplace and a playground.
Elia Apartments Chrisso: Apartments with kitchen and access to the private garden.
Alexandros Pension: With stone-built rooms and balconies.
