When someone talks about Arta for the first time, the famous folk song about the bridge may come to mind. It is the city built on the ruins of Ancient Ambracia, embraced by the path of the Arachthos River. Easily accessible via the Ionia Odos, it is ideal for a few days away or even a day trip to learn a little history through its most famous monuments.
Arta is a city that fascinates, harmoniously coexisting with the remains of ancient Ambracia, a city that survived for several centuries and was the centre of the other Epirote settlement. With the establishment of Arta, centuries after the abandonment of Ambracia, a religious centre was born which became the capital city of the Despotate of Epirus (established after the fall of the Byzantine Empire). You can start with a walk around the city centre and on the way you can take a minute to admire the most important church, dedicated to the Panagia Parigoritissa (Our Lady of Consolation), Agia Theodora, patron saint of Arta. And there is also the little theatre of Ambracia and the Temple of Apollo, protector of the city in antiquity. This is a walk that will take about 2-3 hours, and it offers a fascinating brief journey through the history of this beautiful city of Epirus.
You should end your exploration of the city at the famous bridge, which has connected the banks of the Arachthos River for several centuries. At first glance, one notices the unique architectural style of the stone bridge, and you may be reminded of the legend of the master builder who sacrificed his wife to keep the bridge standing. The plane trees on the bank invite you to sit and rest in their shade awhile. Here you can relax and ruminate on everything you’ve seen and learned on your stroll around the town, and admire the river and the view of the bridge while you enjoy a ‘meze’ (appetiser) or a meal in one of the tavernas.