The Sarakatsani, also known as the Sarakatsanaeans, are a Greek ethnic group historically spread across mainland Greece and parts of the Balkans, including the mountainous regions of Bulgaria and Northern Macedonia. Traditionally nomadic pastoralists, their origins can be traced to the central and southern Pindos mountain range and Rumelia, with the village of Agrafa considered their cultural centre.

The Traditional Sarakatsanian Settlement, maintained by the Sarakatsanian Association of Thrace in Glykoneri, Rhodope, preserves and revives various Sarakatsanian customs, such as Kalogiannia. This custom, rooted in pre-Christian traditions, is associated with the celebration of the birth of St John the Baptist on 24 June.

The museum settlement is located south-west of Glykoneri, at the junction with Fanari, and features the iconic Sarakatsanian huts (konakia). These huts are built from straw and green wood in the traditional Sarakatsanian architectural style. The area also includes a chapel dedicated to St John the Baptist, adding to the cultural and spiritual significance of the site.