Mount Olympus Facts: Is It The Highest Mountain In Greece?
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The mythological Greek Mountain, Mountain Olympus, is the highest mountain in Greece.
It is a great treasure of Europe, located in the Olympus Range. Interestingly, the highest peak, 'Mytikas,' is believed to be a home for the 12 Greek gods.
It has 52 summits and deep gorges. The highest peak amongst all the summits is 'Mytikas peak' (meaning 'nose'), standing at 9,570 ft. (2,917 m).
Mount Olympus is considered a National Park in Greece since 1938. It is also the second-highest in the Balkans. Due to its magnificent natural landscape with cultural importance, it was proclaimed as a Biosphere Reserve in 1981 with its inclusion in the UNESCO.
Trekking And Climbing On Mount Olympus
Did you know the first successful summit of Mount Olympus in Greece was in 1913?
Mount Olympus has an extensive network of more than 60 hiking trails, with a total length exceeding 100 mi (160km). Over the years, with improvised tourism, it has become a popular travel destination for adventure seekers and hikers.
It is estimated that Olympus witnesses around 10,000 climbers in a year. Most of the climbers achieve the adventure of reaching the third-highest point 'the Skolio summit.'
It typically takes two to three days to climb this mountain, depending on the choice of the route selected and the point of start. There are provisions for emergency refuges and manned refuges that cover almost every side of the mountain.
Muses Plateau - Profitis Ilias - Toumba (30 mins) with 0.62 mi (1 km) is an extremely easy route that leads to Profitis Ilias chapel built in the 16th century. Vrysopoules - Skolio summit (three hours) for 2.48 mi (4 km) gives the mountain's best and easiest route, especially in the winter season.
Prionia - Spilios Agapitos (three hours) for 2.79 mi (4.4 km) route is in very good condition, and the majority of the walk is through the forest. Prionia is considered as the highest point where cars can go.
It is facilitated with appropriate parking areas. Spilios Agapitos Refuge - Muses Plateau (90 mins) 2.36 mi (3.7 km) route is quite steep and difficult, also known as Kofta (meaning 'sharp'), where the snow rarely melts.
Muses Plateau - Koryfes - Louki - Mytikas (1 hour) 0.93 mi (1.5 km) is a very difficult and dangerous route due to the risk of landslides. Xerolakki - Naouam Steam - Muses Plateau (four hours) 3.1 mi (5 km) is a thrilling route that paves the way across the streams and under the caves.
The best time to visit these gigantic mountains in Greece would be from June till the end of September. If you're going alone for a hike, it is recommended to hire an official mountain guide for the safety and appreciation of the trip.
Group sizes exceeding 10, camping within 200 ft. (60.9m) of water bodies, or staying for more than three days are strictly prohibited.
National Parks Around The Mountain
Olympus biosphere reserve in Greece covers the eastern limestone foothills, and the summit is managed as a national park. It is primarily managed by the Olympus National Park Management Agency.
The core area of the biosphere reserve spreads over 4000 ha (40 sq. km), with the landscape comprising mixed conifer and deciduous forests, evergreen sclerophyllous vegetation, montane grasslands, alpine meadows along with rivers and streams.
Olympus biosphere reserve is home to unique wild flora and fauna. More than 17,000 species of plants have been discovered in this astounding ecosystem, which contributes to one-third of the flora of Greece.
The main type of vegetation in the reserve is black pine. And, the height of coniferous woodlands and forests in the sphere roar to a height from 1640 ft. (500 m) to 5577 ft. (1,700 m).
The biosphere reserve is home to more than 100 species, including seven species of woodpeckers and 32 species of mammals. But it is distressing to hear that several animal species, namely the Golden eagle, Geoffroy’s bat, the Chamois, and the Bearded vulture, have been Endangered or Near Threatened with extinction.
The national park has certain rules and regulations outlined for tourists. Children below the age of 14 are not allowed without an official guide.
The lighting of fire or outdoor camping is also not allowed. Hunting of any type of animal or bird or destruction of types of fauna is strictly prohibited. Also, damage to geological formations is a punishable offense here.
Mythological Associations
According to ancient Greek religion and mythology, Zeus was the ruler of Mount Olympus. This mountain was frequently visited by his wife, Hera, Athena, and Poseidon.
The Greeks believed that this mountain is a zone of great power and possibly the meeting point of heaven and earth. They also believed that the Twelve gods (also known as Olympians) lived on this mountain. In Greek mythology, Zeus is the god of the sky and thunder, and he is the one who rules the Olympians.
FAQs
What are some fun facts about Mount Olympus?
This mountain in Greece spreads almost in a circular area that has been formed over time by wind and rain.
Where did Greek gods live?
According to ancient Greek mythology, the Twelve Greek gods (Olympians) and the god Zeus lived on Mount Olympus.
Is Mount Olympus real?
Yes! This is a real mountain in the North-East of Greece.
Is Mount Olympus a volcano?
Yes. It is a shield volcano mountain with approximately 374 mi (624 km) in diameter.
How to draw Mount Olympus?
Mount Olympus, the home of gods, is often drawn with a giant castle atop the mountain.
What type of mountain is Mount Olympus?
This mountain in Greece is formed of sedimentary rock.
How old is Mount Olympus?
According to Geological scientists, it is formed about 200 million years ago with the sedimentary rock formation.
Who guards the gates of Olympus?
Greek mythology states the three Horacio, also known as Horae, guard the golden gates of Olympus.
What did Prometheus carry down from Mount Olympus?
Greek god Prometheus, also known as the god of fire, stole the fire from Zeus and gave it back to humankind for warmth and light at night.
How many gods lived on Mount Olympus?
According to ancient Greek mythology, the Twelve Greek gods (also known as Olympians) lived on this mountain. The highest point, 'Mytikas,' is believed to be the site of the throne of God Zeus.
How long does it take to climb Mount Olympus?
It typically takes two to four days to climb the highest mountain in Greece. In constraint with the time, tourists generally go for easy day hike which takes a duration of 1 hour to 10 hours. It all depends on the choice of the route selected at the point of the start.
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