Metsovo, at an altitude of 1,160 metres, is the most important population centre in highland Epirus. It owes its development to its strategic placement, as it overlooks the main pass through the Pindos mountain range: the Zygos mountain crossing critical to transport and trade. It was an essential and safe supply point for travellers, merchants and armies moving from east to west and vice versa. Like most of the mountain villages of Pindos, it was established by nomadic stock-breeders who joined their scattered summer camps into a permanent settlement. Over time, the settlements grew with the construction of tower-like houses to ensure the safety of their inhabitants. Metsovo is a listed traditional settlement that retains and diligently promotes its cultural heritage and unique natural environment of the region. Its residents, of Vlach origin, are engaged in stock-breeding, cottage industries, silversmithing, wood-carving and weaving, as well as commerce. The wealth derived from livestock breeding, fine art objects, trade and migration brought prosperity to the town and is reflected in the stone-built mansions, richly decorated with stone, wood and paintings, its schools and its churches. With its mountain-dwelling residents still wearing their traditional costumes, Metsovo is a model mountain settlement that manages its tourism development with respect for its customs and heritage. Despite the urbanisation of the town, many Metsovo residents fanatically retain their traditional Vlach dress. Men, women and children proudly wear their beautiful costumes to festivals and official ceremonies, while many of the order citizens wear them on a daily basis. The typical women’s costume features a sleeveless long vest (sigouni) with jewels sewn on, a long pleated skirt, embroidered apron and a fine filigree belt. The men wear a pleated white or black foustanella (type of kilt) and a wide sleeved shirt with a vest or wide-legged white pants with a vest.