Ponts de pierre en Épire

Historic Stone Bridges

These historic stone bridges represent the peak of traditional craftsmanship in Epirus, particularly within the Zagori region. Built between the 18th and 19th centuries, these arched structures were essential for connecting mountain villages across deep ravines and rivers like the Arachthos and Voidomatis. Constructed using local limestone without mortar, they feature distinct architectural styles ranging from single-span arches to rare triple-arched designs. Many are situated along ancient cobblestone paths once used by merchants and livestock.

Historic Stone Bridges — Carte

Harrygouvas / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Bridge of Arta

The Bridge of Arta is a stone bridge that crosses the Arachthos river in the west of the city of Arta in northwestern Greece.

Christaras A / CC BY 3.0

B

Ottoman Stone Arch Bridge of Klidonia

Built in 1853, this single-arch bridge spans the Voidomatis River at the exit of the Vikos Gorge. It was constructed with a donation from Balkiz Hanum and serves as a primary starting point for hiking trails along the riverbank.

C

Bridge of Plakida or Kalogeriko

This rare triple-arched bridge was built in 1814 near the village of Kipoi. Its distinctive rhythmic, serpentine shape spans the Bagiotikos stream and is considered one of the most significant examples of Zagorian masonry.

D

Bridge of Noutsos or Kokkoris

A high, single-span stone bridge built in 1750 over the Vikos River. Situated between the villages of Koukouli and Kipoi, it features a dramatic arch designed to accommodate significant seasonal water level changes.

E

Bridge of Lazaridis or Kontodimou

Located near the entrance of the Vikos Gorge, this 1753 single-arch bridge connects Kipoi to Koukouli. It is named after the local teacher Anastasios Lazaridis and is noted for its slender, elegant construction.

F

Gephyri Tou Agiou Mena

A single-arched stone bridge located near the village of Dilofo. It spans a narrow stream along the traditional mountain path leading toward the monastery of Agios Minas.

G

Gephyri Tou Kapetan Arkouda

Built in 1806, this single-arch bridge spans the Bagiotikos stream. It is named after Captain Arkoudas, a local hero who was killed at this site during the struggle for independence.