2. The Metropolises: Places of Origin

Cradles of the Helleno-Vlachs are scattered across the southern Balkans, encompassing regions that, during Ottoman rule, formed a cohesive geographical entity. Today, these areas correspond to the Greek peninsula—primarily its northwestern part (Epirus and Macedonia)—as well as southern Albania, the Republic of North Macedonia, and southern Bulgaria. The map highlights major centers with compact Vlach-speaking populations that thrived particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries, all tracing their roots to the Pindus mountain region. The rugged terrain and mountainous landscapes of Pindus played a crucial role in shaping the identity of these communities.

The Vlach economy revolved around livestock farming, weaving, logging, and transport (kiratzilik), which involved long-distance transportation of goods and people using horses and mules. Over time, other trades also flourished, notably silversmithing, wood carving, and icon painting (iconography).