On Tuesday, 19 May 2026, the Voice of Greece program “Common Ground” introduced listeners to Anavryti, Laconia — a village that once experienced periods of remarkable prosperity, particularly during the years when tanneries operated there and traditional saddle blankets were produced.
Historical records mention that in 1830 Anavryti had a population of 3,500 inhabitants, significantly larger than that of Sparta at the time. Today, only a few permanent residents remain. However, during the summer months, many visitors arrive to explore the trails of Mount Taygetus using the village as a base, while also discovering its outstanding examples of local architecture and important religious landmarks, such as the Monastery of Faneromeni.
Among other distinctions, emigrants originating from Anavryti established the oldest Greek Diaspora association in New York, dating back to 1901. As became clear during the program, one of the main reasons for the village’s decline has been emigration, primarily to the other side of the Atlantic.
Unfortunately, as today’s guests noted, visitor numbers have dropped significantly in recent years — especially after the pandemic — a development that, combined with the gradual depopulation of the area, poses serious risks to the preservation of Anavryti’s architectural heritage.
Speaking about the village were Ioannis Bagiokos, Professor of History; Giorgos Kanellopoulos, mountain guide; and Giorgos Yaxoglou, architect. Joining the program from New York was Matina Valioti, treasurer of the Association of Vryseis of Anavryti of New York.