A Timeless Arch in the Heart of Vikos-Aoos
In the heart of Zagorohoria, Greece, lies Vikos-Aoos National Park, where the famous arched stone bridges stand as monuments to human craftsmanship. One of the most celebrated is the Kalogeriko Bridge, gracefully spanning the Voidomatis River.
Built in 1814, this three-arch bridge is a masterpiece of traditional stone masonry, perfectly blending with its surrounding rugged landscape. The stones, painstakingly carved and set without modern tools, form an elegant curve that has withstood centuries of rushing waters and harsh winters. Locals believe the bridge was commissioned by a monk from a nearby monastery, hence the name “Kalogeriko,” meaning “monk’s bridge.”
The bridge once served as a vital crossing for villagers and travelers navigating the wild terrain of Epirus. Merchants, pilgrims, and shepherds would tread carefully across its arches, often pausing to admire the towering cliffs and deep gorges that define Vikos-Aoos. Today, it draws visitors from all over the world, captivated by its beauty and history.
Standing on Kalogeriko, one can feel the pulse of ancient Greece, where human ingenuity merged seamlessly with nature. The river below flows clear and cold, winding through lush forests and rocky landscapes. Above, the Pindus Mountains loom, their peaks brushing the sky. The bridge is more than a crossing—it’s a symbol of the enduring connection between man and the wild, a testament to the timeless beauty of Zagorohoria.
