From Preveza to Missolonghi

After a short stay at Nikopolis, we reach Preveza.

Preveza

The port town lies opposite the Aktio peninsula, at the exit of the Ambracian Gulf.

This bay was the location of the historically significant naval battle between Octavian, later Emperor Augustus, and Marcus Aurelius and his beloved Cleopatra.

Octavian defeated Marcus Aurelius, who then fled with Cleopatra to Egypt, where both chose suicide.

Before we continue south, we visit the ancient city of Kassope.

Kassope

Kassope or Cassope was founded around 350 BC. After the founding of Nicopolis, Augustus ordered the move, resulting in that Kassope was abandoned.

The ancient city impresses by its location, high on a rocky plateau. From here you can see the whole region up to the Ambracian Gulf.

The precisely carved stone blocks of the walls testify to the craftsmanship of the builders. The ancient theater can only be imagined.

The importance of the town can be seen from the fact that it had its own coins.

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From here, one has a marvelous view of Zalongo.

Zalongo

410 steps lead to the memorial for the Dancing Women of Zolongo. After their men had fallen in 1803 in the fight against the Ottomans, 63 women danced the Souliotic Round Dance with their children.

After each round, one of them fell down to escape capture and maltreatment by the Turks.

Next destination is Arta.

Arta

Pyrrhus, the king of the Greek tribe of Molossians, made Arta the capital of his empire in 295 BC.

Later it was the capital of the Despotate of Epirus. The impressive palatial church dates from that time.

Especially worth seeing is the arched bridge, built in the 17th century. The bridge collapsed several times during the construction work.

The legend says that the master builder had his wife walled in to maintain the necessary stability for the bridge,

Agrilia

Agrilia lies on the way to Mesolongi right on the sea. A small restaurant offers food and drinks. The bay next door invites you to swim and sunbathe.

The water is clear and clean, a reason for the creation of fish farms.

The offshore islands serve partly prosperous Greek families as summer accommodation.

Please read on > Visiting Missolonghi

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