Tradition, craftsmanship and nature in the mountains of Epirus
The Katsanochoria villages of Epirus are rightly known as “the quiet villages of the Northern Pindus”. They form an enchanting mountainous area to the south-east of Ioannina, which remains quietly off the beaten track compared with the famous Zagorochoria.
The area includes eleven traditional settlements, the best known being Elliniko (formerly Lozetsi), Kalentzi and Plaisia. Marking the boundaries of the area are striking natural landmarks such as the gorge of the Arachthos River, the Xirovouni mountain, the Aetorachi peak and Tsouka, where a historic monastery dating from 1190 stands, commanding panoramic views.
Starting your tour in Elliniko, you will come across an open-air gallery: the renowned Greek sculptor Theodoros Papagiannis was born here, and many of his works adorn the village. The old primary school has been turned into the Theodoros Papagiannis Museum of Contemporary Art, where themes such as local life, work and tradition are brought to the fore through works that touch the visitor’s soul.
Towards Plaisia, the route is enchanting: a winding downhill road, traditional scenery and an imposing plane tree at the heart of the village. In its shade stands a traditional kafeneio, where time seems to have stood still. Kalentzi is another stand-out, with a creative workshop where local craftsmen make tools from wood and iron. Finally, one of the area’s most distinctive landmarks is the Plaka Bridge, the largest single-arched bridge in the Balkans, faithfully restored to its original form.
Katsanochoria offers a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Epirot experience. Nature, tradition and the people invite you to discover a world where time passes more slowly and beauty surrounds you. Live the experience!
The area includes eleven traditional settlements, the best known being Elliniko (formerly Lozetsi), Kalentzi and Plaisia. Marking the boundaries of the area are striking natural landmarks such as the gorge of the Arachthos River, the Xirovouni mountain, the Aetorachi peak and Tsouka, where a historic monastery dating from 1190 stands, commanding panoramic views.
Starting your tour in Elliniko, you will come across an open-air gallery: the renowned Greek sculptor Theodoros Papagiannis was born here, and many of his works adorn the village. The old primary school has been turned into the Theodoros Papagiannis Museum of Contemporary Art, where themes such as local life, work and tradition are brought to the fore through works that touch the visitor’s soul.
Towards Plaisia, the route is enchanting: a winding downhill road, traditional scenery and an imposing plane tree at the heart of the village. In its shade stands a traditional kafeneio, where time seems to have stood still. Kalentzi is another stand-out, with a creative workshop where local craftsmen make tools from wood and iron. Finally, one of the area’s most distinctive landmarks is the Plaka Bridge, the largest single-arched bridge in the Balkans, faithfully restored to its original form.
Katsanochoria offers a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Epirot experience. Nature, tradition and the people invite you to discover a world where time passes more slowly and beauty surrounds you. Live the experience!
