Palaiochori (Greek: Παλαιόχωρι) is a settlement on the island of Lesbos in the North Aegean region of Greece. The name translates literally as “old village.” It is situated on the western side of the island, roughly 20–30 km southwest of the island’s capital, Mytilene, and lies near the Aegean coastline.
Administrative status
- Since the 2011 Kallikratis reform, Palaiochori is part of the municipal unit of Plomari, which belongs to the municipality of South Lesbos (or the municipality of Plomari, depending on the latest administrative delineation).
- The settlement falls within the regional unit of Lesbos, itself part of the North Aegean periphery.
Geography
- The village is located at an elevation of approximately 10–20 m above sea level.
- The surrounding landscape consists of gentle hills, olive groves, and proximity to the sea, typical of the western Lesbos coastline.
Demographics
- According to the 2011 national census, the population of Palaiochori was recorded at a few hundred inhabitants (exact figure varies by source, but is generally under 500).
Economy and infrastructure
- The local economy is primarily based on agriculture (olive cultivation, viticulture) and small‑scale tourism, benefiting from nearby beaches and the coastal setting.
- Basic services such as a primary school, a church, and a community center are present in the settlement.
Historical notes
- The toponym “Palaiochori” is a common Greek place name indicating that the site originated as an older settlement relative to neighboring villages.
- No major historical events are recorded specifically for this village in widely available encyclopedic sources.
References
- Hellenic Statistical Authority, 2011 Census data.
- Government Gazette, ΦΕΚ B 129/2010 (Kallikratis reform municipalities).
The information presented reflects the current encyclopedic knowledge available for Palaiochori, Lesbos.
