Exotic Greece: Zagori traditional villages Monodendri & Vitsa, Epirus | Travel guide
Discover the beauties of Zagori at the northwestern part of Greece and the small traditional villages surrounded by virgin nature of Pindos mountain, the famous Vikos gorge, the rivers and the stunning old stone bridges of the Epirus!
This lovely pool with the amazing view was at the stone-built Archontiko Zarkada in Monodendri and we ate delicious local dishes at the main square of Monodendri village in a restaurant called I pita tis Kikitsas. At the end of the video, you may enjoy views of Aghia Paraskevi monastery overlooking Vikos Gorge.
Monodendri is one of the famous Zagori villages and belongs to the Municipality of Central Zagori. Built at an altitude of 1,060 meters, just 39 km. from the city of Ioannina offers unique views of the slopes of Tymfi and Astraka.
Its name probably comes from a big tree that it was in the village until 1840. Until 1753 it was a community with three neighborhoods (Vitsa, Ano Machalas, St. George), which later formed the modern village.
Monodendri is located in a prominent position as it has easy access to the gorge of Vikos and the stone towers of Oxia to the left of the village, composing a landscape of rare and fabulous beauty.
Monodendri experienced great economic and commercial peak in 18th and 19th century and were erected many churches, schools and mansions from their benefactors. The village is the birthplace of the national benefactors of Greece Manthos and Georgios Rizaris.
Rizari brothers were merchants with base in Russia, they gave a lot of money in the liberation struggle of the country and provided their property for the establishment and operation of Rizarios Church School. With money from the legacy of the brothers Rizari, today it operates the handicraft school where you can view or buy beautiful textiles and embroideries.
Monodendri has also Rizarios Exhibition Centre which hosts significant international art exhibitions such as Manos, Bresson, Boissonas and others. Today at the home of Rizari brothers, it is housed the elementary school with the busts of the benefactors contempating the ridges of Tymfi.
From the village of Monodendri comes the great teacher of the Nation Athanasios Psalidas (1767-1829).
Monodendri is one of the most beautiful villages of Zagori with unique views and attracts many visitors every year. It is one of the first and oldest villages of Zagori which were developed touristically and now have many tasteful guesthouses and hotels that provide a high level of service for a comfortable and pleasant stay.
Characteristic stone streets, stone houses and mansions will impress you with their famous local architecture and they will revive past times. The whole village is evenly built with gray stone. In the taverns and restaurants of Monodendri you can find local traditional food and of course the famous pies.
From Monodendri starts the path that leads you through the Vikos Gorge and Voidomatis springs, after an enjoyable trip. The village is the starting point for the Vikos gorge but also for many hiking and walking trails.
Monodendri deservedly claims a position of one of the most beautiful villages of Zagori and not unjustly, as it offers a landscape of unparalleled natural beauty and breathtaking views!
Regional Flavours & Products
In Monodendri and in all villages of Zagori you will find rich and delicious dishes, traditional dishes such as the famous Zagori pies all made with fresh local ingredients. The traditional flavors of Zagori satisfy even the most demanding visitor.
Try the local meat cooked in a pot, lamb in a pot, pompari, Easter crumbs, fried pork, kontosouvli, ewe grilled, baked beans, briam. Of course it would be a great omission not to try some of the famous Zagori Pies like flour pie or zymaropita, spinach pie, milk pie, nettle pie, gkizopita, pumpkin pie, frumenty pie, chicken pie, cheese, mushroom and almond pie, baklava, pancakes and apple in the oven. You can accompany your meal with locally produced wine, fine raki or ouzo.
From Monodendri and other Zagori villages you can buy dairy products, chestnuts, apples, walnuts, honey, mushrooms, sweets, jams, pickles, local meats and folk art.
Cultural events
Monodendri made many cultural events during the summer months as theater and concerts. Monodendri made many cultural events during the summer months as theater and concerts.
– Feast of Agia Paraskevi on July 26th.
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