Definition
Koutalas is a small settlement (village) located in the regional unit of Corinthia, in the Peloponnese region of Greece. It is administratively part of the municipality of Nemea.
Overview
Koutalas lies in the central part of the Nemea municipal unit, approximately 10 km southeast of the town of Nemea and about 70 km southwest of the city of Corinth. The village is situated in a hilly area characterized by agricultural land, notably vineyards that contribute to the region’s wine production. According to the most recent census data available (2011), Koutalas had a population of roughly 200 inhabitants, reflecting its status as a sparsely populated rural community.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on viticulture, olive cultivation, and livestock farming. The settlement is connected to nearby towns by a network of regional roads, and public services such as education and healthcare are typically accessed in larger neighboring villages or the municipal center of Nemea.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Koutalas” (Greek: Κουταλας) is derived from the Greek word koutáli (κουτάλι), meaning “spoon.” Place names containing “kouta-” are common in Greece and may refer to a geographical feature resembling the shape of a spoon, such as a concave valley or a bend in a river. However, specific historical documentation linking the name to a particular local feature in this settlement is not confirmed.
Characteristics
- Geography: Situated at an elevation of approximately 350 meters above sea level, Koutalas experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The surrounding landscape includes rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and olive groves.
- Demographics: The population is predominantly Greek Orthodox, with demographic trends showing an aging population typical of many rural Greek villages.
- Infrastructure: The village contains basic infrastructure, including a small central square, a church dedicated to the Holy Trinity, and a primary school that serves local children. Commercial activity is limited to a few family-run tavernas and local shops.
- Cultural Aspects: Koutalas participates in regional festivals, particularly those associated with the wine harvest and the patron saint’s day, reflecting the cultural traditions of the Nemea area.
- Economy: Viticulture is the principal economic activity; vineyards in the vicinity contribute to the production of the renowned Nemea PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) red wines, primarily made from the Agiorgitiko grape variety.
Related Topics
- Nemea (municipality): The larger administrative unit encompassing Koutalas, known for its archaeological sites and wine production.
- Corinthia: The regional unit of the Peloponnese that includes Koutalas, featuring a diverse landscape ranging from coastal zones to mountainous interiors.
- Greek wine regions: Particularly the Nemea wine region, which is one of Greece’s most important red‑wine producing areas.
- Rural depopulation in Greece: A demographic trend affecting many small villages like Koutalas, characterized by migration to urban centers.
All information presented reflects data available from official Greek census records, regional planning documents, and recognized geographic sources as of the latest public releases.