Imathia

Imathia (Greek: Ημαθία) is a regional unit of Central Macedonia, Greece. It lies in the western part of the region and takes its name from the ancient Emathia. The capital and largest city is Veria (Veroia). The regional unit also includes notable sites such as Vergina (Aigai), the ancient capital of the Macedonian kingdom, and the town of Naousa, known for its wine production.

Geography and economy:Imathia combines fertile plains along the Aliakmon River with portions of the Vermio mountain range, creating strong agricultural activity. Local crops include cereals, tobacco and fruit, and the area around Naousa is particularly associated with grape growing and wine production. The Giannitsa Lake region is another important landscape feature, reflecting the agricultural character of the area. Tourism centers on Vergina’s royal tombs, Veria’s historic center and surrounding Byzantine churches, as well as the wine heritage of Naousa.

History: In antiquity, Emathia was part of the core Macedonian kingdom. In modern times, Imathia was a prefecture until 2011, when it was reorganized under the Kallikratis Plan as a regional unit within Central Macedonia.

Administration: The regional unit is subdivided into several municipalities, including Veria, Naousa and Alexandreia. It is served by road and rail connections to Thessaloniki and other Macedonian towns.

Notable features: Imathia’s cultural and archaeological assets, its agricultural economy, and its historic urban centers contribute to the region’s regional identity within northern Greece.