Nea Gonia

Nea Gonia is a semi-mountainous village in the Halkidiki regional unit, with a population of 444 as of 2023, and it also forms the municipal district of the Municipality of Propontida.

It is located east of Lakkoma. The area enjoys a mild and humid climate, which has led to the development of many holiday homes. The village has a kindergarten, mini market, olive mill, and other local facilities. In terms of sports, the football club AO Nea Gonia is active and competes in the Fourth National Amateur Division. There is also a wrestling team. The Wrestling Club of Nea Kallikrateia is based in Nea Gonia. Additionally, the village features a motocross track for motorcycle enthusiasts. The main occupation of the residents is agriculture. The village is particularly renowned for its vine leaves.

The village was founded by refugees from Eastern Thrace following the Asia Minor Catastrophe. The people of Gonia brought with them to their new homeland their knowledge of vine cultivation, as well as the culinary traditions of the East. Among these is the traditional yalantzi dolmadaki made with vine leaves.

Cultural life is supported by both an educational–cultural association and a cultural society. Many buildings still preserve the village’s traditional character, such as the well-preserved windmill known as “Mylos,” located on the northern outskirts of the village. Before entering the village, in the area known as Gyalakia, stands the traditional stone fountain called “Megali Vrysi” (Great Spring). Each year, a traditional festival is held at the chapel of Agios Georgios, on the eastern edge of the village.