Konitsa

For centuries now, rivers have been a determining factor of communication in Epirus. Three rivers traverse through the Konitsa region ( Aoos, Voidomatis and Sarantaporos) and their crossing over and across the other side of the towering Epirotic mountains has been of significant value in terms of communication. Hunters at the time, located easy prey near the river banks.

The rivers created passages which, around 2500 B.D, aided the descent of various Indo-European tribes such as Thesprotians, Thessalians, Molossians and others that colonised all round the Konitsa region. However, findings dating back to those times, were never discovered since their nomadic nature didn't favor more permanent installments.

During the Byzantine era, Epirus was a prosprerous province, renowned for horse breeding. Later and for many years, the region suffered continuous raids by Slavophone bandits of the Balkans. From 1204 and until it was finally concquered by the Turks, the Konitsa region was regulated by the Despotate of Epirus. Memorable landmarks of the Era include: the Holy Monastery of Virgin Mary of Molyvdoskepasti (14th century), the Metamorphosis Sotiros Monastery situated in Kleidonia and the Kokkini Panagia Monastery situated in the plains of Konitsa.

The Turks took over Konitsa during 1417 or according to other historic resourses on 1430 along with Ioannina. The kaza (province) of Konitsa was regulated by the Ioannina sanjak. The mosque built on 1536 by Suleiman the Magnificent is preserved to this day.

The population of Konitsa was divided into two seperate Districts. The Upper region of Konitsa (Varasi) was inhibited by Christian Orthodoxs while on the Lower part of the region, resided muslim,Arvanitic refugees, mainly farmers. Both Districts used Greek as their main laguage and up until the 19th century there were only greek schools in operation.

During the reign of Ali Pasha, Konitsa's trade and small industry reached their apex.

His mother, Hamko, born in Konitsa, was greek spoken and the daughter of timariouchos Zeinel Bey. From the mid-19th century, and with the aid of various benefactors (lassa), schools, churches and bridges are consructed all over the Konitsa province. In 1870, a single-arched bridge on Aoos river, funded again by private benefactors, is built under the authority of mason Ziogas Frontzos from Pirsogiani.

Around the 17th century various craftsmen (painters,carpenters, hewers etc.) from the Mastorochoria of Konitsa ventured and spread all around Greece, building beautiful examples of human craftmanship, both for public and private use, bridges and churches many of which are preserved to this day. Samples of their work are also located beyond the Greek region, in both Smyrna of Asia Minor and the U.S.

Konitsa was freed from the Turks on the 24th of February, 1913. By 1926 any neccesary migration for settlement purposes, was complete. All Muslims, both of Greek and Albanian origin, were sent off to Turkey while Cappadocians took refuge in Greece and were later intergrated by the locals. On October 1940, Italians later on followed by Germans, invaded the city, causing minor havoc.

Geographic elements:
The province of Konitsa is enclosed by North Pindos and is located on the northern parts of the Ioannina Prefecture. It expands from Grammos all the way to Timfi and Smolikas. Its eastern borders meet with those of West Macedonia ( Kastoria Prefecture and Grevena Prefecture) while its western borders with those of Albania. The area offers a variety of geographical relief with three rivers, Aoos, Voidomatis and Sarantaporos, traversing through it, all of which add to the already rich and diverse historical and cultural Konitsa's course through history. Human activity is also positively encouraged by Konitsa's abudance in forests, fields, highlands, plains, constant water flow, riparian vegetation and rich wildlife.

Emergency numbers
Health Center of Konitsa 2655023111
Taxi 2655022471 / 22500
Konitsa police station 2655022202
Fire Department of Konitsa 2655022199
Bus station of Konitsa 2655022214

Giro turistico

Luoghi in Konitsa merita una visita!

Aoos Bridge

Stone bridge near the exit of the Aoos ravine. Build in 1870, the bridge is the tallest and widest one-arched bridge in Greece.

Hamko's Residence

Zeinel Bey's mansion, father of Hamko who mothered Ali Pasha of Ioannina. Its leftover ruins are preserved in Upper Konitsa and you'll find the grand, stone-engraved front gate particularly interesting.

Stomio Monastery

The hike towards Stomio Monastery commences at the Konitsa bridge and you'll surely find the 1 hour and ten minutes route traversing through the Aoos ravine beyond magical. The monastery's breathtaking view is equally as charming and mystifying.

Holy Monastery of Virgin Mary of Molyvdoskepasti

Situated 400 meters from the Greek-Albanian border, close to the village of Molyvdoskepasto. The monastery actually got its peculiar name from the temple's rooftop which was made out of lead plates that were later used by the Turks as ammunition for their riffles.

Voidomatis

The surrouding mountain streams all end merging and pouring into the Canyon of Vikos, ultimately forming the totallity of Voidomatis river.

Mastorochoria

A magestic, traditional area constituted of stone-built villages and bridges, mosques, and pricturesque alleys. Ganadio, Monastiri and Molista and some of the must-seen villages around.

Ganadio: Blessed by its surrounding natural enviroment, it was declared a special protection area on 1977. Its Lycee, Parthenagogio (girl's school) and the mansion of Ganadio's benefactor Ksinos, are all buildings of great, architectural value and will stand out right away. Guests can enjoy a stroll through the many alleys and are welcome to Ms Vaso's traditional cafe which is always open for visitors.

Monastiri: A beautiful, picturesque village with hidden treasures such as tiny, stone chapels, gurgling springs and plentiful cobblestone alleys to explore. The village's traditional kafeneio (cafe) is warm and welcoming for every guest.

Molista: Perched on Smolikas mountainside, Molista is just 28 km away from Konitsa. Antique mansions and stone alleyways intrique both our guests senses and imagination. Its must visit locations include Molista's fount and Saint Nicholas church.

Zagorochoria

Charming and traditional, Zagorochoria stand out for their classical architecture. Vikos, Aristi and Papigo will surely impress you.

8Folklore Museum of Konitsa
The museum's collection include exhibits from the 19th century up to the early 20th , such as tools and utensils.

9Bouzourani environmental park
The zoo accommodates 6 different species of wildlife. Group visits traspire every afternoon.

Upper Kleidonia
With a breathtaking view of the russet rocky slopes of Papigo and the Voidomati river, the time-honored, epirotic settlement of Upper Kleidonia, perched high up on a 1000 meter altitude, has a priceless array of churches and chapels.

Vasilitsa ski center
Perfect for ski enthousiasts and more and thrill seekers. Positioned at a 60km distance from Konitsa. Suitable for both adults and kids that seek to enjoy the snowy slopes either by skiing, snow-boarding, simply strolling around or enjoying a hot cup of coffee.

Kavasila and Amarantos thermal water spa
A couple kilometres past Iliorachi, Kavasila is renowned for its splendid thermal water spa. The thermal springs are situated about 5km away from the village of Kavasila, and their fame dates centuries back. Their healing properties positively affect the healing of fractured bones while, being rich in sodium sulfite, aid greatly in treating rheumatic diseases and dermatitises. The springs temparature is constantly maintained to 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 Fahrenheit). Apart from balneotherapy, our guests are also offered mud baths, drinking therapy and inhaling therapy. The facilities are operating from May to October.

Amarantos thermal water springs are situated 5km away from the village of Amarantos, Municipality of Konitsa. Placed in the midst of a beautiful forest, near the Greek-Albanian borders, they're on a 1260 meter altitude. Warm vapes are distributed from the border of its calcareous rocks. Due to the theurapidic nature of the vapes, countless guests surge in during the period of June-September. Kalpaki Museum
The war museum can be found while entering Kalpaki, 30km away from Konitsa. It features exhibits from the greek-italian war and a reenactment of the Kalpaki battle. The tour is hosted by actual soldiers, working at the Museum, while also available is an audiovisual documentary concering the battle of Kalamas river.

Hiking Konitsa!

While in Konitsa you can choose between the many hiking routes available, which you'll undoubtely enjoy! Nature graced the area with unparallel beauty and all you have to do is savor it! Gamila and Smolikas drakolimni
These two alpine lakes are situated in the surrounding area of Konitsa and Zagori. The alpine lake of Gamila (Timfi) is placed near its peak at a 1900 meter altitude while the second one, also of the same altitude, up the Smolikas peak. While seamingly identical, these two peculiar lakes present an astounding difference. The alpine lake of Gamila has inky black banks, white pebbles scattered across them, while the lake of Smolika has a naturally white waterside with black pebbles along its length
The alpine lake of Gamila is a commonly visited hiking destination and is well known for the alpine newts (dragons) inhibiting its waters. The lake is an hours hike from the fully equiped shelter at the Astraka col, and 4 hours of hiking from Mikro Papigo. It is only accessible on foot. A second option to the alpine lake of Gamila is the route Aoos bridge-Stomio Monastery- Alpine lake. It takes a total of seven and a half hours to traverse this 12 km long path. The alpine lake of Smolikas is on the west side of Smolikas, the second tallest greek mountain. Smolikas expands a couple kilometres north of Timfi and ends at the Aoos canyon. The route, weither your starting point is Pades village, Palioseli or Agia Paraskevi, is beyond magical. You'll finally reach the alpine lake – which is also home to alpine newts- after a 5 hour hike.

You'll find the natural surroundings and the view both rewarding and relaxing. Ascending to the alpine lake is one of the most rewarding and beautiful hiking routes in Greece. You can partake in one on notice, mostly during the months of March to October.

2. Route of Aoos stone bridge- Stomio Monastery:
Starting at the memorable Aoos stone bridge, the labelled path expands along the river's length and is directed towards the ravine. The route commences at a 450 meter altitude all the way up to 800 meters and is expected to end at the 1 hour and 30 minute mark. The canyon expands its way through steep, rocky slides, alongside a few selected spots where our guests can enjoy a cool swim. Its excellent ecosystem provides refuge to numerous species of animals and birds such as wolves, wild bores, roes, woodpeckers, throstles and many more. During the hike our guests come across the mesmerising Gravos waterfall, near the Stomio Monastery. The view of the Aoos ravine offered while on the monastery is truly breathtaking.

3. Route of Aoos stone bridge- Skamneli:
It's one of the longest crossings through the Vikos-Aoos national park and the mountain range of Timfi. Aoos bridge is the path's starting point and after reaching the monastery of Stomio the route continues through the Tsouka Rossa col, at a 2200 meter altitude, and continues downhill into the village of Skamneli, found at 1050 meters. The route requires 13 hours of hiking and medium to advanced hiking skills and gear (especially during the winter).

4. Route of Aoos stone bridge- Vrisochori:
The first half of this route ( up until Tsouka Rossa col)coincides with the route mentioned above. Instead of taking the hill down to Skamneli, we instead choose path 03 all the way to Vrisochori. The route requires 12 hours of hiking and during the winter months special gear and experience are a must.

5. Route Konitsa-Trapezitsa:
Beginning at the Agios Athanasios chapel, 900 meters above Konitsa, this 4 hour long (5km) route resumes at Trapezitsa, on a 2022 meter altitude. It offers a spectacular view of the Aoos ravine and the surrouding mountains (Timfi, Smolikas).

6. Route Pirsogianni-Golio/Grammos:
A long route that treks through the beautiful forest and leads up to one of the mountain Grammos peaks, infamous for the battles that took place during the civil war. The path commences at the village of Pirsogianni. It continues on through the Metsorovianni spine, through a dense oak tree forest, and finishes at the Kardari mountain peak, the edge of the forest. Hiking from Kardari, you end up at Golio, right above the greek-albanian borders.

7. Route Asimochori-Golio-Ai Ilias- Izeros- Vourbiani-Livadi-Golio (or Vartziobani- Asimochori):
At the village of Asimochori and specifically Agia Paraskevi's chapel, commences a dirt road path that is easily accessible with landrovers. You can traverse through the entire mountain of Golio that offers astounding altitude variations and vast oak and pine fields. A panoramic view of Grammos is also available. Our guests could make a small stop at Ai Ilias or the Izeros clearing chilling water springs. Further up ahead, you'll come across a crossroad and taking a left turn there will lead you to Vourbianis main road. If you choose the road on your right further on you 'll end up at Livadi, where you have the option to hike up to mount Golio, found at 1934 meters. If you choose to continue towards the area of Vartziobani you'll be able to pass through the same spot that the Julia division crossed to greek terittory, during the WW2. The route finishes at the outskirts of Asimochori village, near the two chapels of Agios Athanasios and Agios Spiridonas.

8. Route Plikati-Koukouli- Mavri Petra- Grammos peak:
To climb up to Grammos mountain peak ( found at 2520 meters) you'll need to start at the village of Plikati and follow the path to the river's left, so that you ascend towards the “Koukouli” peak, where you'll find an old outpost. Continuing on north across the mountain ridge you'll reach the peak of “Mavri Petra” (at 2431 meters) and further up ahead, the peak of Grammos.

Alternatively, with the middle river to your right, you'll reach the mountain's foothills and then ascend north, having direct eye contact with the mountain peak, or you can ascend from the middle river's right side, end up directly beneath the “Perifanos” peak and make a left towards the mountain peak of Grammos. It must be noted that all of the aforementioned routes have been tracked and marked by Plikati's hiking team and are maintained every year. The total hike takes about 4 hours.

9. Route Gorgopotamos- Plikati- Mnimio- Grammos peak:
If you choose to travel through this route with a landrover or a motor bike, the suggested path for those seeking a thrill is through the village of Gorgopotamos since the beginning of this path (which is parallel to the river) is rather adventurous. After crossing the village of Plikati ( you have the option of making this the start point of your route) you can go all the way up to Mnimio, at 2163 meters altitude. From there the hike to the mountain peak is around 2 hours on foot. On the way back you can choose an alternate path that leads to Aetomilitsa. This particular path is only recommented during the summer season since the unfavourable weather conditions usually cause land subsidence.

10. Route Kefalochori- Likorachi- Kampitsios- Ano Arena- lake Moutsalia- Grammos (or Grammosta or Chrisi and Pefkofito):
Another landrover tested route that starts at the village of Kefalochori. More specifically, just before the village, there is a bumpy path with the road sign “Likorachi”. Likorachi is an abandoned village that was evacuated and had its residents relocated to Kefalochori due to landslides. Despite the vibes of abandoment and sadness that cling around, the village is worth a visit so you can visit the watermill as well as the churches that have been renovated by the county. From there, the route leads to Kampitsios, a large, sunny prairie. After that you'll find Ano Arena and its beautiful semi-alpine lake Moutsalia. You can get to the lake ( the path is extremely traversable) by taking a left just before the village of Aetomilitsa. From the lake you get to choose between many different paths (all labeled), towards the village of Grammos, the abandoned village of Grammosta, the vllage of Chrisi and Pefkofito. From there you can travel back to Mastorochoria using the main road.

11. Route Grammos-Gkistova – Grammos peak:
Starting from the village of Grammos, you go uphill to the right, towards the greek-albanian borders where you'll find the alpine lake Gkistova, at 2350 meters altitude. If you continue for another 30 minutes you'll reach Grammos mountain peak. The required time for this route is about 3,5 hours.

12. Route Aetomilitsa -Gkessos-Perifano- Grammos peak:
The village of Aetomilitsa , where there is also a shelter, is found on alpine surroundings. It's worth hiking west to the Gkessos monument (at 2166 meters altitude) and continuing on across the mountain ridge to Perifano (2442 meters altitude) and finally to the mountain peak of Grammos. The required time for this route is about 4 hours.

13. Route Agias Paraskevis:
The village of Agia Paraskevi (or Kerasovo) is found at the foothill of mountain Smolikas. It's a challenge for hikers, since to conquer its peak, are required 5 hours of hiking through designated paths.

14. Route Ninfaio-Drosopigi:
The hiking path begins at the village of Nimfaio and passes through a beautiful oak forest, at the evergreen mountain sides of mount Vitsi and ends up at the village of Drosopigi. The route is 10km long and the time required time of travel is about 4 hours. This hiking route is not particularly difficult and despite the path being bumpy most of the way, you'll found the surroundings charming. Just before you reach Drosopigi you'll come across the abandoned, old village of Drosopigi. The old abandoned cemetary and its stone crucifixes are definitely worth a visit. The route ends at the village of Drosopigi where you can visit the watermill of Stylos that is still in very good standing

15. Route Oksia:
At the village of Oksia you'll find a plethora of hiking options, depending on the level of difficulty you desire. The route of Oksia-Agia Triada is the first we would recommend. It's about 1400 meters in distance and the variety of trees you'll come across as well as the enjoyable view, will both be something to remember for many years to come. Agia Triada, with a chapel of the same name, is definitely worth our guests' attention and is justifiably considered one the most impressive points of interest, its endless horizon praised in every tourist guide that is well aware of the Epirotic countryside. Some alternative routes are a. Oksia- Vromoneri b. Oksia-Profitis Ilias c.Oksia -Roggia d. Oksia- Simpigada- Platonia (Platanos) e. Oksia- Marianochorafa f. Oksia -Petres t' Spanou -Thema f. Oksia-Asvestaria-Sepeto. All the aformentioned routes are not of particular challenge. The routes of a. Oksia – Profitis Ilias-Amarantos -Gerontas- Kokkinopetra- Liouk- Gessio-2530 or Tsouka Petra b. Oksia-Fitokos (old village) and c. Oksia-Kretsos, all require hiking knowledge and stamina.

16. Route Fourka- Panagia Kladormi Monastery:
The monastery is of an hour and a half hiking distance away from the village of Fourka, on a 1450 meter altitude. The abbey is its highest building, resembles a tower and has a narrow and low entrance. On the monastery's west grounds you'll find a small belfry, with a bell that dates back to 1863.

17. Route Distrato – Samarina:
The hike can begin on either of these 2 villages. Their view is equally stunning.

18. Route Molivdoskepasto:
The route starts at the village of Molivdoskepasto, traverses the entire village and ends up at the Assumption of Mary Monastery. It's a mesmerising route meant to acquaint you with the byzantine monuments of the area.

Route Kleidonia- Kastraki- Agios Minas:
Starting at the old stone bridge of Kleidonia ( 480 meters altitude), this route ascends along the distinctive mountain ridge where you can visit the ancient acropolis of “Kastraki” (800 meters altitude), the chapel of Evaggelistria or continue towards the village of Agios Minas ( 640 meters altitude). The total hike is about three and a half hours (5km) , crossing through bushy areas of oaks and hollies. Some species commonly found in the area include wolves, vultures and hawks.

Route Kleidonia- Papigo bridge- Aristi:
Starting at the old stone bridge of Kleidonia, this 2 hour long route (5km), rides along the left side of Voidomatis river, all the way to a concrete bridge that connects Papigo to Aristi. On a 500 meter altitude, the route passes through the prolific Agioi Anargiroi monastery as well as the prehistoric rock shelter of “Kleidi”, across of the Panagia Spiliotissa monastery.

This route passes through the river banks and its surrounding flora all the way to forest's core, consisted of sycamores, alder and willow trees while its fauna mainly consists of otters, dunlins, trouts and wolves.

Lo stile di cucina locale è noto per la sua qualità e il sapore salato . Il cielo stellato aggiunge un tocco unico per il vostro divertimento . Alcuni luoghi che meritano una visita sono i seguenti:

Ristoranti
Adieksodo: Enjoy a local, high-quality meal and friendly customer service.
Toris: An excellent barbeque house.
Kapnismeno Tsoukali : A quality restaurant with a variety of stews and roasts.
To dentro: Traditional Epirotic cuisine, with oven-baked goods and potpies.
Gefiri: Dining by the bridge of Aoos river.
Bouzourani: Its wild boar stew and deer cooked in wine are some of its main dishes.
To steki: Offers pizza, pasta and grilled meals.
Coffee- Bars
Aroma: Relax and enjoy.
Theasi: Have a drink to the sounds of pop music.
Apallou: Have a drink while enjoying the view.
Mithos: For a fun night-out dancing experience.
Matrix: You can enjoy a cup of coffee or a drink.
Magiki Avli: Enjoy some wine or tripouro along with local delicacies.
Apopsi: For those with a taste to folk music.
Malen: For those chilly, winter nights.

dolci tradizionali e torte
To Spitiko: You should try out their one of a kind cabbage pie.
Zmari: Their home-made sweets will amaze you.
Marmelodia: You'll find its traditional spoon sweets and jams unforgettable.
Nektar: Pastries, cakes and sweets for everyone.
Glikogefsis: Satisfy your sweet tooth will all kinds of delicasies.