On  April 17-21 2024, our annual excursion to flood-stricken Thessaly, and in particular to the Prefecture of Trikala, took place. A total of 50 students participated including the Historical-Archaeological, Cultural, Environmental, Photographic, and Print Clubs, as well as members of the Athens College Junior High School Student Council. The leader of the excursion was Ms. P. Kostala, and the accompanying teachers were Ms. E. Geronikolou, Ms. V. Karas, Ms. A. Papagrigoraki, Ms. M. Iliadou, Ms. K. Christodoulou, and Mr. Z. Ktenidis.

Our primary objective was to support the Junior High School of Megala Kalyvia, a school that suffered damage during the Daniel flood last September. We upgraded the computer lab with five new computers, and provided books, notebooks, t-shirts and water bottles featuring artwork by our students. We planted trees in the courtyard, ate together, played games, and danced. The interaction with our Fellow classmates from the Megala Kalyvia Junior High School left us with excellent impressions!

At the same time, we had the opportunity to discover the unparalleled natural beauties of the region, through a variety of activities in the forests and lakes of Thessaly, with the highlight being the truffle hunt, which was held by the Museum of Natural History and Mushrooms in Kalambaka. We also explored the long history and culture of Thessaly with visits to Byzantine temples, two Meteora Monasteries, the Interchronicle Museum of Larissa and Folklore Museums.

Of great interest was also our visit and tour of the city of Trikala and the city of Larissa. Especially in the city of Trikala we had the honor and pleasure to be welcomed by the Mayor of the city Mr. N. Sakkas, who presented us the situation in the wider area after the floods.

In addition, we were thoroughly informed about two important aspects of the economic life of Thessaly with our visit to the Greek Dairy Farms TYRAS and the vineyard and winery Tsilili. Both units impressed us with their well-organized and modern facilities.