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 The
region of Epirus, occupying the northwest corner
of the Greek mainland, has its own special
beauty and cultural identity. It extends from
the peaks of the Pindus mountains to the shores
of the Ionian Sea. The Pindus range forms its
natural north-eastern border, while dozens of
other mountains, big and small, are scattered
throughout the area, separated by only a few
valleys. Amidst these superb mountains and
forests live the last of the Greek bears,
wolves, mountain lions, wild boars and otters.
Wild goats and deer still
browse on its precipitous cliffs, where eagles
and vultures nest. To the west stretches the
Ionian Sea, a coast of a diverse blend of modern
resorts, lagoons and river deltas, of which the
latter two form an important system of wetlands.
Life in Epirus had its
origins well before the dawn of history and the
region witnessed all the ups and downs of
Ancient Greece, Rome, Byzantium and the modern
era, gaining a uniquely individual sense of
history and culture.
 Ioannina is the capital
and largest town of Epirus, standing on the
western shore of Lake Pamvotis, which is the
site of a tranquil island. The city became a
major commercial and intellectual centre during
Ottoman rule. The old town within the city walls
has picturesque narrow lanes flanked by
traditional Turkish building and two mosques.
Ioannina is a good place to arrange and
organised trek in the fascinating Vikos gorge,
as well as to many more remote areas of Epirus,
such as the Pindus mountains. Attractions in
Ioannina include the very important ancient site
of Dodoni, with its colossal 3rd-century BC
theatre, the acropolis, and the Sanctuary of
Zeus. The theatre has been restored and hosts an
annual Festival of Ancient Drama in July and
August. The Zagorohoria, comprising 44 villages,
lie north of Ioannina in an area offering some
breathtaking views. An outstanding feature of
the villages is the architecture, as the houses
are built entirely of slate from the surrounding
mountains, a perfect blending of nature and
architecture. |
