 Igoumenitsa
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Igoumenitsa is the capital of the Thesprotia region. It is a beautiful coastal city that serves as the vital link between mainland Greece and Europe. Its port functions as a key hub, connecting not only the Ionian islands of Corfu and Paxos but also neighboring Italy, with regular routes to the ports of Bari, Brindisi, Venice, and Ancona.
The charming mainland city is located 480 km from Athens and 470 km from Thessaloniki, with road connections linking it to all parts of Greece.
Often referred to as a “gateway city,” Igoumenitsa serves as an intermediate stop for travelers heading to Corfu or Italy. This strategic location makes it a popular destination, attracting many visitors throughout the year, even though most stay only briefly and do not have time to fully explore its charms.
Igoumenitsa has a population of around 10,000 permanent residents and functions as the administrative and commercial center of the region. The city has seen significant tourism development and is worth visiting to explore the wider area. The diverse landscapes captivate the visitor, where the combination of lush greenery and the deep blue waters of the Ionian Sea creates truly unique scenery.
Beyond its natural beauty, Igoumenitsa also boasts important historical landmarks. A stroll through the city¢s forested area reveals the ruins of the Venetian castle, destroyed in 1685 by Morosini, who reportedly transported 12 cannons and other war supplies from this castle to the fortress of Corfu. Approximately 134 km from Igoumenitsa, in Lygia, visitors can see the Rayio Tower and the ruins of the ancient city of Toroni.
Historically, Thesprotia was liberated from Ottoman rule in 1913. At that time, Igoumenitsa was a small village called Grava. In 1936, it was designated the capital of Thesprotia. During World War II, the town was completely destroyed by German forces and later rebuilt from scratch. In the 1960s, the port was developed and maritime connections with Italy were established, marking the beginning of a new era. Since then, Igoumenitsa has experienced rapid growth and development.
Today, the beautiful city of Igoumenitsa is an excellent escape from everyday life and serves as the perfect starting point to explore the enchanting region of Epirus.
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