The Goutzamanis Grove “Kiosk”, a cherished landmark and the “green lung” of Livadi, stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of a remarkable man, Konstantinos Goutzamanis. This enduring project, which remains a jewel of the village of Livadi in Elassona, rightly bears his name. The initiative began in 1911, inspired by the progressive educator Goutzamanis. His vision was enthusiastically embraced by the Mayor of Livadi and the local residents, who transported pine and fir trees from Mount Olympus using mules.
The project faced opposition from the Turkish officials of Elassona and Livadi because the area designated for planting included a Turkish cemetery. However, Goutzamanis gained their approval by promising to reforest the cemetery area as well. After securing the saplings, he organized teams of students: boys dug holes while girls carried water in traditional containers (gioumia). He also built a reservoir, remembered by older generations, to collect rainwater for irrigation.
For five years, Goutzamanis personally tended to the trees, watering them and enclosing the area with wire fencing to protect it from animals. This remarkable effort transformed the grove into a thriving sanctuary. Konstantinos Goutzamanis passed away in Katerini on December 12, 1932, leaving behind a legacy that continues to enrich the community of Livadi.
