Ossa
Ossa, also known as Kissavos, is a prominent mountain located in the northeastern region of Greece, specifically in the coastal district of Thessaly. Rising to an elevation of 6,489 feet, it lies to the north of Magnesia and provides a stunning backdrop to the landscape, particularly when viewed from nearby villages or the Vale of Tempe. Ossa is famously linked to Greek mythology, particularly the tale of the twin giants Otus and Ephialtes, who attempted to reach the heavens by stacking the mountains Ossa and Pelion, with Olympus as the apex. This mythological connection is part of a rich cultural heritage in the region, highlighting the significance of these mountains in ancient stories. The proximity of Ossa to both Mount Pelion and Mount Olympus further emphasizes its geographical and mythological importance. As a natural landmark, Ossa attracts visitors interested in both outdoor activities and the historical narratives that surround it. The mountain's picturesque views and cultural relevance make it a noteworthy destination for those exploring Greek history and nature.
Subject Terms
Ossa
Mount
![A distance view of the west side of Kissavos otherwise known as Ossa Mountain under the sunset from a village road in Thessaly By stg_gr1 (originally posted to Flickr as KISAVOS) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons 103254738-105323.jpg](https://imageserver.ebscohost.com/img/embimages/ers/sp/embedded/103254738-105323.jpg?ephost1=dGJyMNHX8kSepq84xNvgOLCmsE2epq5Srqa4SK6WxWXS)
![Ossa mountain (Kissavos) viewed from Pineios bridge in Larissa city By stefg74 from Abelonas, Greece (Ossa - Kisavos Uploaded by Alaniaris) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons 103254738-105324.jpg](https://imageserver.ebscohost.com/img/embimages/ers/sp/embedded/103254738-105324.jpg?ephost1=dGJyMNHX8kSepq84xNvgOLCmsE2epq5Srqa4SK6WxWXS)
A mountain rising to a height of 6,489 feet at the northern end of Magnesia, the coastal district of Thessaly (northeastern Greece) facing the Aegean. At the southern extremity of the same range stands Mount Pelion, and across the Vale of Tempe from Ossa rises Olympus. All three mountains figure in a famous myth recounting how twin giants, Otus and Ephialtes, planned to climb up to heaven by piling Ossa on Olympus and Pelion on Ossa; but according to a tradition preserved by the Odyssey, they were killed by Apollo.