Parnon, Mountain range in Peloponnese, Greece
Parnon is a mountain range in Peloponnese stretching from the northern Tegea plateau to the southern Cape Maleas, defined by numerous high peaks. The highest point, Megali Tourla, rises above 1,934 meters, with ten other summits also exceeding 1,500 meters in elevation.
In ancient times this range was known as Kronion before taking the name Parnon, possibly linked etymologically to Mount Parnassus. The area was later also called Malevos and played a role throughout the region's historical development.
Mountain villages here maintain traditional stone building methods, and many residents still speak Tsakonian, a rare local dialect. This distinctive way of speaking and building has shaped daily life in these communities for generations.
The range spans two administrative regions and several municipalities, so it helps to plan your approach from either north or south depending on your route. Best conditions for exploring occur during warmer months when paths and higher elevations are most accessible.
The area contains rare juniper forests and the remarkable Lepida gorge with a seasonal blue lake and waterfalls. These waterfalls are particularly impressive from December through April when rainfall and snowmelt feed the springs.
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