Ierissos counts about 3.000 permanent residents and lies to the north - east of Athos peninsula.

The small market town of Ierissos is built on the site of ancient Akanthos (Thorn). It is 80 km from Poligiros and about 132 km from Thessaloniki. It has been settled since prehistoric times. Ierissos is the capital of the Stagira-Akanthos region and it is founded by settlers from the island of Andros. In the south-eastern end of todays Ierissos, remains of the ancient town of Akanthos have been found. It probably takes its name either from the many thorn bushes of the area or from its thorn fortification. Today, Ierissos is a big holiday resort that attracts many tourists in the summer months. Significant sights of the area are the remains of the castle and the Byzantine churches as well as the 14th century tower of Krouna which is preserved almost intact.