A Strong and Fearless Nation
The people of Thessaly have long been known as a warlike nation, and even in later times they were still considered a bold and sturdy people. During my stay, I often heard the Turks complain about them. They described the Thessalians as strong, fearless, and sometimes desperate men. According to the Turks, these people were not easily ruled and did not forget injuries done to them Rivers and Dry Seasons in Thessaly.
It was said that if a Thessalian was wronged, he would wait patiently for the right moment to take revenge. Because of this spirit, several Turks were reportedly surprised and killed by them. These stories were often repeated and served as a warning that the people of Thessaly, though living under foreign rule, still carried the courage and pride of their ancestors.
Famous Battles on the Plains of Thessaly
The wide plains of Thessaly have been the scene of many famous battles throughout history. The open land, flat and spacious, made it suitable for large armies and cavalry. Because of this, many generals believed it was the perfect place to test their strength and skill in war.
One of the greatest battles that might have taken place there never happened. During the invasion of Greece by the Persians, Mardonius, the Persian general, sent a challenge to the Greek forces. He urged them to come out of their strong defensive positions and fight him in Thessaly, where there were wide plains and open fields enough to show true bravery and military power.
However, the Greeks wisely refused this challenge. They chose to remain in their fortified positions, knowing that open battle on the plains would favor the Persian army, which was larger and stronger in numbers. This decision proved their wisdom, even though it denied Thessaly the chance of hosting what could have been the greatest battle in Greek history Sofia Day Trip.
Appearance and Character of the People
The Thessalians are generally a handsome people. They often have black hair and dark eyes, and their faces are fresh and lively in color. Their complexion is healthy and rosy, much like the fresh complexions commonly seen among people in England. Because of this, strangers often admired Thessalian women and spoke highly of their beauty.
Travelers sometimes used the phrase “the fair blood of the Greeks” to describe this pleasing appearance. In contrast, the Macedonians, who live in more mountainous regions, tend to have a rougher and darker complexion. The Moreans, or Peloponnesians, who live farther south, are usually even darker in skin tone, likely due to the stronger sun and warmer climate.
Horses, Animals, and Local Food
The Thessalians have always been famous as excellent horsemen, and this reputation still continues. The land of Thessaly produces many fine horses, strong and well-shaped, suitable for riding and warfare. Even in later times, the country was known for the quality of its horses.
In addition to horses, Thessaly also has large buffaloes, considered the biggest in Greece, except for those found in Santa Maura in Epirus. There are also large tortoises, beautifully marked with yellow and black shells. These animals were considered good food by the local Christians.
However, the Turks mocked the Christians for eating tortoise meat. They claimed it was foolish to eat such creatures when better food, such as mutton, chickens, and partridges, was easily available. This difference in taste showed the contrast between local customs and Turkish habits.
A Land of Strength and Tradition
Overall, Thessaly remains a land shaped by strength, courage, and tradition. Its people, plains, animals, and history all reflect a region that has long played an important role in warfare, culture, and daily life in Greece.
