Parnitha Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Parnitha
Πάρνηθα
Parnitha as seen from Nea Filadelfia, Athens
Highest point
Elevation	1,413 m (4,636 ft)
Prominence	10 to 15 km, north to south approx. 10 km from east to west
Listing	National park
Geography
Location	north of Athens, Greece
Parent range	Parnitha
Climbing
Easiest route	climb

Parnitha is a large and important mountain in Greece. It is found in the southern part of Greece, in an area called the Attica peninsula. Parnitha is the tallest mountain in the Attica region, reaching a height of 1,413 meters (about 4,636 feet). This mountain is covered by thick vegetation, meaning it has many plants and trees. At lower elevations, you will find Pine forests. Higher up, the forests change to Greek-fir trees. In the summer of 2007, a large part of the forest was sadly burned by a big and destructive wildfire.

What is Parnitha Mountain?
- Parnitha's Location and Size
Nature and Wildlife on Parnitha
- Forests of Parnitha
- Animals of Parnitha
The 2007 Wildfire and Recovery
- Impact of the Fire
- Efforts to Recover
Visiting Parnitha
- Activities on the Mountain
- Important Places to See
Images for kids
See also

What is Parnitha Mountain?

Parnitha is more than just a tall mountain; it is a vital natural area. It is located just north of Athens, the capital city of Greece. Because of its beautiful nature and important wildlife, Parnitha has been made a National park. This means it is protected by the government to keep its environment safe.

Parnitha's Location and Size

Parnitha is the highest point in the Attica region. Its peak stands at 1,413 meters above sea level. The mountain stretches for about 10 to 15 kilometers from north to south and around 10 kilometers from east to west. This makes it a significant landmark in the landscape around Athens.

Nature and Wildlife on Parnitha

Parnitha is famous for its rich plant and animal life. The mountain's different heights mean it has various types of forests and habitats. This variety allows many different species to live there.

Forests of Parnitha

The lower parts of Parnitha are covered with dense pine forests. These trees are well-suited to the warmer climate closer to the ground. As you go higher up the mountain, the pine trees give way to Greek-fir forests. These fir trees prefer cooler temperatures and higher elevations. The forests provide a green escape from the city and help keep the air clean.

Animals of Parnitha

Parnitha National Park is home to many wild animals. One of the most famous animals living here is the Red Deer. These deer are a symbol of the park and can sometimes be seen roaming through the forests. Other animals include foxes, hares, and various types of birds. The park works hard to protect these animals and their homes.

The 2007 Wildfire and Recovery

In the summer of 2007, Parnitha experienced a very serious wildfire. This fire burned a large area of the mountain's beautiful forests. It was a sad event for the environment and the animals living there.

Impact of the Fire

The wildfire caused a lot of damage to the forests, especially the pine trees. It also affected the homes of many animals. After the fire, the landscape looked very different, with many burnt trees.

Efforts to Recover

Since the fire, there have been many efforts to help Parnitha recover. People have worked to plant new trees and help the natural environment heal. Nature is amazing at recovering, and slowly, the green forests are returning to the mountain. This shows how important it is to protect our natural spaces from fires.

Visiting Parnitha

Parnitha is a popular place for people to visit, especially those from Athens. It offers a chance to enjoy nature, go hiking, and see beautiful views.

Activities on the Mountain

Many people enjoy hiking and walking on the trails of Parnitha. There are paths for different skill levels, from easy walks to more challenging climbs. In winter, if there is enough snow, some people even go skiing or play in the snow. There are also mountain refuges where hikers can rest or stay overnight.

Important Places to See

Beletsi Lake: This small, beautiful lake is located on the eastern slopes of Parnitha. It's a peaceful spot to visit and enjoy the scenery.
Monastery of Kleiston: This historic monastery is nestled on the mountain and offers a glimpse into the region's past.

Images for kids

A satellite view of Parnitha along with most of Attica. The boundary of the mount proper is marked in light blue while its foothills are visible as the green areas immediately adjacent to the line.
Monastery of Kleiston in Parnitha
Beletsi Lake on the east slopes of Parnitha
View of the fire from the East
Parnitha during 2007 wildfire
A very small part of the burned area