Kato Vermio (Kato Seli)

Seli (or Kato Vermio) is one of the most well-known Vlach villages. It is a beautiful mountainous village in the Municipality of Veria, in the Regional Unit of Imathia, built on the western slopes of Mount Vermio at an altitude of 1,400 to 1,500 meters, making it one of the highest villages in Greece. It is located 24 kilometers from Veria, 17 kilometers from Naousa, and 100 kilometers from Thessaloniki.

Seli is famous for its rich vegetation, variety of herbs, and its ideal climate depending on the season. About 2 kilometers from the village lies the National Ski Center of Seli, the first organized ski resort in Greece, which began operating in 1934. The permanent residents throughout the year do not exceed 100, while in the summer months the population reaches around 2,000. Due to its climate, proximity to urban centers, and heavy snowfall during the winter months, it serves as both a summer and winter resort for thousands of visitors.

The village was founded between 1826 and 1835 by Vlach shepherds who came from the Pindus mountains. The first settlement was established in the southern end of the village in the area of Kryes Vryses. Initially, Seli consisted of two neighborhoods (mahallades): "Marousia", whose residents were called "Marousiani", and the opposite neighborhood "Naparti", whose residents were known as "Napartiani".

Seli is a village with a rich history, folklore, and traditions. Apart from the famous Feast of the Assumption on August 15, a significant celebration is also held for the Nine Days of the Virgin Mary, with a divine liturgy taking place at the Church of Panagia Seliotissa, located within the forest in the area called "Prionia". In the permanent folklore exhibition on the first floor of the building that houses the Cultural and Tourist Association of Seli, just a few meters from the main square, visitors can view a rich collection of traditional items donated mainly by local residents, showcasing the local heritage.

In Seli, visitors can admire many traditional stone-built houses, the beautiful environment with its diverse natural forest, the fresh air, and the stunning views offered from various points of the village. A notable aspect of local tradition is the folklore associated with various sites in the wider area, such as the "Witch’s Rock", whose legend a local villager will gladly recount.

Finally, no one should leave Seli without tasting traditional dishes made with local meats, cheeses, and wines at the village’s taverns and cafés.

Of particular interest are the routes leading to the two large stone-built churches, the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and the Church of the Holy Apostles, as well as the traditional building that houses the Cultural and Tourist Association of Seli, with its folklore exhibition featuring traditional costumes, household items, and photographs that preserve the memories and lives of past generations. Visitors should also explore the various small streets of the village to discover traditional buildings that are still preserved today.

Just two kilometers from the village center and at an altitude ranging from 1,530 to 1,890 meters lies the Seli Ski Resort, which offers excellent snow conditions, a wide selection of slopes for recreational and professional skiing, abundant sunshine, and easy access from both Veria and Naousa.