Megalos Valtos

Megalos Valtos is a beautiful, lush green village built on the northern edge of the plateau that hosts the Mougkoustou oak forest. It is located 15 kilometers southwest of Kiato, at an altitude of 540 meters. Today, it has around 450 inhabitants, who mainly engage in agriculture and livestock farming.

The most significant crop in the area is table grapes, particularly the sultana variety, along with olives.

In the Limiko area, next to the Sellianthros River, ancient wells, parts of a paved road, and an old aqueduct have been uncovered, while in the "Ktirio" location, remains of buildings and a beacon tower from the Classical period have been found.

During the Greek War of Independence, the village served as a safe refuge and stronghold for the Greek forces. Its excellent view of the Corinthian Gulf and the mountain passes into inland Corinth gave them a strategic advantage.

In August 1822, following the Battle of Kiato, the bodies of Anagnostis Petimezas and his 17-year-old son Sotirakis, who had died in battle, were buried in Megalos Valtos.

The "Sia" area, lush with massive plane trees, running water, and vibrant with colors throughout the year, attracts thousands of visitors annually. The area has been landscaped and is particularly inviting in the summer due to the coolness it offers. The Sellianthros River, which flows eastward through the villages of Lalioti and Dimini, and eventually reaches the beach of Pikragouri, draws most of its waters from this area.