It is important to note that Central Macedonia belongs to the country of Greece - and not to Macedonia, which has been an independent nation since the early nineties. This name issue has been a source of confusion for many - and even even has led to verbal aggression between the two countries. However, this dispute now seems more or less resolved.
Central Macedonia is what the Greeks call a periphery, which is an important administrative unit for them - and can be seen as the equivalent of what other nations call a province.
Central Macedonia is one of those places where tourists and business travellers both go in comparable numbers. The region has some healthy industry, and its service sector has been growing quickly for some decades, but especially since the turn of the millennium. With beautiful landscapes (mostly mountainous), a rich multitude of ancient monuments, and a rugged and picturesque coastline.
The famous Mount Athos is not technically a part of this administrative unit, but rather a self-governing entity within Greece. Geographically, however, it belongs to Central Macedonia. This ancient Orthodox monastery is one of Greece's most fascinating - and spiritual - places. The monks who live there are very faithful to their age-old traditions; for some people they go slightly too far: Women are not allowed on their mystic peninsula - not even as day visitors.
