On Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Voice of Greece’s “Common Ground” took us to Palaiochora in Halkidiki, a large village of around 800 residents at the foot of Mount Holomontas. Through conversations with local people, we discovered a community deeply attached to its traditions and history.
Evangelos Arvanitis, Deputy Mayor for Zervochoria, traced the village’s history through to the present day. Eleni Malandri, President of the Palaiochora Local Community, discussed the challenges it faces today and the need to develop tourism and improve infrastructure while preserving its distinctive character.
Joining us by phone, Panagiotis Michalas, President of the “Elpis” Cultural Association, spoke about the many activities and events the association organizes throughout the year.
We also heard from Eleni Karadimitra, Vice President of Palaiochora’s Arts, Visual Arts and Culture Association, about the village’s cultural and artistic life. Among the initiatives she highlighted was a recent project, carried out with the help of the village’s painting teacher, to decorate house walls with scenes inspired by local traditions and folklore. The project has transformed the village’s appeal to visitors, earning it the nickname “the painted village.”
Finally, we spoke with Eirini Mouchtari, a young teacher who has lived in London for the past 16 years but returns to the village whenever she can—to enjoy its authentic way of life, reconnect with fellow villagers, and spend time close to nature and local traditions.
Produced and presented by Prokopis Agelopoulos