Arta
Country: Greece
Region: Europe
Period: 294-146BCE, 12th-15th c.CE
Location: 39.165°N, 20.9875°E
Description
Arta, located in northwestern Greece, was an important city in antiquity, known as Ambracia, a Corinthian colony founded in the 7th century BCE. It later became the capital of the Epirote League under Pyrrhus of Epirus (3rd century BCE). In Roman times, it declined but remained a regional center. During the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, it regained significance as a trade and cultural hub.
Modern Remains
Today, Arta is famous for its Byzantine churches, including the Panagia Parigoritissa (13th century) and Agios Vasilios. The Arta Bridge, a legendary Ottoman-era structure over the Arachthos River, symbolizes the city’s heritage. Archaeological remains of ancient Ambracia, such as ruins of temples and walls, highlight its classical past. The city preserves a rich mix of Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences.