The bridges constitute an inseparable part of the area of Zagori at large and contribute to the characteristic features for which the area is admired by many.

The bridges were constructed hundreds of years ago, in order to enable the crossing of people and horse carts over the usually raging, freezing rivers of the area. All of the bridges are stone-built and follow loyally the traditional architectural style of the region of Epirus in the north of Greece. They not only constitute specimens of unique architecture...they bear signs of rich cultural wisdom.  

The exact location of each bridge was not left to chance. It was actually chosen after careful consideration by the area’s craftsmen, which were virtuosos in this kind of construction. What was of prominent importance upon their decision was to find the point where the two river banks had the least distance between them.

The construction of the first stone-built bridges, commenced in the 18^th century and their purpose was to replace the previous bridges that were made of wood and lacked in safety and durability.

Talking about safety...all bridges were equipped with a bell underneath, which would signal you the danger of crossing over according to how bad the weather conditions were on that day or according to the water levels in the river...

Let us take you to a tour of the most important and exemplary bridges in the area of Zagori...

 

Missios Bridge was built in 1748 near the village of Vitsia in the area of Central Zagori

Kokoros bridge or Noutsos bridge - as it is otherwise known - that was built in 1750 near the villages of Kipi, Koukouli and Dilofo in the area of Central Zagori

 

Plakida bridge or Kalogeriko bridge - as it is otherwise known - that was built in 1814 and it is located between Kipi villlage and Central Zagori

Kondodimos bridge or Lazaridis bridge - as it is otherwise known - that is located in the gorge of river Vikos very near to Koukouli village and was built in 1753

 

Milos bridge located at the exit of Kipi village as we head towards Negades village was built in 1748

Pitsioni bridge located at the exit of Kipi village as we head towards Negades village that was built in 1748

The bridge of Kamber Agas located near Miliotades

Klidonias bridge or Voidomatis bridge - as it is otherwise known – that was built in 1853 at the area of Klidonia where the gorge of Vikos ends

Tsipianis bridge near the area of Miliotades in East Zagori that was built in 1875

Vovoussa bridge crossing over the river Aoos and still in use, although it was built in 1748...

From: Eva Kanellopoulos

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