Arta - Epirus (Greece)
ARTA. Prefecture of Arta is the southeastern prefecture of the Greek region Epirus (1665 sq.km/257 sq.mi., 80,000 inhabitants). To its north, Arta shares a border with the prefecture of Ioannina, to the west with the Prefecture of Preveza, to the east with the region of Thessaly (Prefectures Trikala and Karditsa) and to the southeast with prefecture Aetoloakarnania, one of the prefectures of central Greece.
In the southwest Arta borders to the bay of Amvrakikos. This area is one of the most important habitats of Europe, protected by the Ramsar Convention (which protects wetlands and associated plant and animal species).
Prefecture of Arta is full of beautiful mountains and fertile valleys and plains. Capital of the prefecture is the town of Arta, which is built on seven hills on the banks of the river Arachtos.
Arta city is a storied town that is known for its famous bridge. It is a bustling town with lots of entertainment options. Arta city located 370 kilometers (230 mi) from Athens and can be reached fastest, via the Rio-Antirio Bridge and the Peloponnese.
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History of Arta
Arta was founded by Corinthians in the 7th century BC. At that time the region was called Amvrakia. The name "Arta," was given during the Byzantine era. During the Turkish occupation from 1449 to 1881, Arta was an important trading center. Arta is known for an historic bridge. According to a legend, the bridge was built in the daytime and each night it collapsed, night after night. It was thought that a curse caused this nightly destrtuction, and that a human sacrifice was necessary to complete the bridge. The first technician finally sacrificed his beloved to finish the bridge. Although Arta has a long history, there is little left from ancient times. The main monument from this period is the ancient theatre of Amvrakia. Unlike the ancient times, there is much preserved from the Byzantine period, including many historic churches that can be admired today.
Sights and tips Arta
- The castle of the town of Arta, which was built in the 13th century next to the river Arachtos. The castle is located in the middle of a lush forest. The castle houses the Municipal Theatre where performances are given in summer.
- The Byzantine church Parigoritissa which was built in the period 1285-1289. This church has two floors. The murals of this church are from the 16th and 18th centuries.
- The ancient theater of Amvrakia in Arta city.
- The traditional village Kataraktis.
Text: Jorgos and Wendy Nikolidakis - Text edited by Katrina Butzer
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Arta in other languages
Arta (GriekseGids.nl)
Arta (GriekseGids.be)
Arta (GreeceGuide.co.uk)
Arta (GriechenlandWeb.de)Arta: Where on the map is Arta located?
Arta
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