Ioannina is the “heart” of Epirus. The Pamvotis Lake, an emblematic part of the region’s physiognomy, is the identity of the city. The lake belongs to the European Network of Protected Areas Natura 2000 because of its rare flora and fauna.
The life of Ioannina is in the immediate vicinity of the lake and its famous Pamvotis Ιsland, where boats sail under the shadow of Mount Mitsikeli. The whole landscape becomes even more imposing by the legends and traditions, mainly emerged from Ali Pasha’s period.
Another characteristic of the city is the Castle, one of the few well-preserved castles in Greece. Walking inside the castle walls, the visitor will be impressed by the traditional houses, the mosques and the Ottoman baths. Around the castle and a few meters away from the historic center, the modern city lies with its new architectural buildings.
Ioannina has many interesting museums. The most well-known ones are the Archaeological Museum of Ioannina, the Fetiche Mosque, Ali Pasha’s Tomb, Aslan Pasha Mosque, the Byzantine Museum and the Silversmithing Museum, located inside the castle of Ioannina, and more specifically in the western bastion of the north-eastern acropolis (Its Kale).
Ioannina is a unique city that combines the mountainous landscape with the water element. A vibrant city proud of its history, culture and architecture.
