Pilgrims Flock to Panagia Soumela in Vermio

Pilgrims are flocking to Panagia Soumela on Mount Vermio, ahead of the major Orthodox holiday. Visitors from around the world, including Greeks from India, Australia, the USA, England, and the Netherlands, have arrived in Imathia.

Dimitris Mantzios, president of the Imathia Hotel Association, stated that there is a large influx of visitors, noting that the region traditionally receives a large group from America. This tradition has continued for the past six to seven years.

Mr. Mantzios mentioned that religious tourism boosts the local economy and that visitors have developed personal relationships with the hoteliers.