The commercial hub of Arta is the second largest city of mountainous Epirus province, and an interesting site in its own right on the road between the lakeside city of Ioannina and the Ionian coast. The city boasts of many archaeological sites and offers a visitor charming stone-paved alleys, modern shopping and a large variety of cafes and bars.

Surrounded by imposing mountains and covered in lush vegetation, Arta draws thousands of visitors each year. The area’s rivers, lagoons and unique ecosystems make it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts.

Built on the edge of a beautiful hill, on the banks of Arahthos river, this fascinating city is home to a plethora of attractions, including its world-famous bridge. According to the legend, 45 masons and 60 apprentices, under the leadership of the Head Builder, were building a bridge, but its foundations would collapse each night. Finally a bird with a human voice informed the foreman that, in order for the bridge to remain standing, he should sacrifice his wife. As she was being buried alive in the foundations of the construction, she cursed the bridge to flutter like a leaf, and those who cross it to fall like leaves also. She was then reminded that her brother is abroad and might cross the bridge himself, so she changed her curse into a blessing.

Don’t miss

The famous bridge of Arta which connects the banks of the Arahthos river
The Ancient Amvrakia wall fortifications
The Byzantine castle (13th century), where general Makrigiannis and his men were imprisoned by the Turks during the Revolution of 1821
The Skoufa Folklore Museum in an 1864 neoclassical building
The Church of Aghios Vasilios, a single-navel basilica
The Monastery of Kato Panagia (13th century), on the foot of the hill.