In central Greece spreads Thessaly (approximately 14.000 km2) a traditionally rural area. The biggest plain in Greece lies in Thessaly occupying 50% of the total area, with the remaining 50% being mountainous and sub-mountainous. The mountainous and sub-mountainous areas are reach in natural vegetation (forests, shrublands and natural pastures) which are characterized by high biodiversity (flora and fauna). Thessaly is reach in micro-regions with climatic, territorial and cultural specificities as well (Vlachs, Sarakatsani, Karagounides, locals etc.).
Tradinionally Thessaly has a high production of primary sector products but also an important processing sector. Particularly livestock farming and notably pastoral farming was and still is the basis of Thessaly's economy and a fundamental element for the creation of cultural heritage and the formation of ecosystems with high natural value. In its dairy micro-regions a network of small family dairies has been established (2nd and 3rd generation) based on long-term cooperation relationships with the livestock farmers.
Traditional livestock farming and cheese-making production contributed to the great cheese-making activity (about 70 cheese factories are based in Thessaly) observed today in Thessaly.