Bridge Kalogeriko

Μετάφραση Greek Version

Bridge Kalogeriko

The bridge of Plakidas or Kalogeriko was built in 1814 near the villages of Kipoi and Koukouli in central Zagori. It spans over Vikos River, right after its confluence with the Mpagiotiko stream. This beautiful bridge is characterized by its toothed windowsills and the harmonious arrangement of the three arches. Thus, it is also called "moving caterpillar", a characterization that is perfectly justified if one looks at it from one of the surrounding hills.

A watermill owned by the monastery of Prophet Elias, opertared near the bridge. The three-arched bridge was built in order to replace an older bridge and make the crossing safer. It was originally made of wood, but after the sponsorship of Abbot Seraphim, a new stone bridge was built that was given the name, Kalogeriko. Later, it was named Plakidas after Alexis Plakidas, the man who repaired it in 1863. In 1912, Evgenios Plakidas also restored the bridge and built there a fountain. In 1977 the bridge was seriously endangered when some road contractors considered a good idea to build a road over the bridge. After many protests by the local population, the plans were cancelled and a new route was designed.

The bridge served the people of the two villages in their everyday agricultural work and on the way to the watermill. It also served the communication between the villages of Dilofo, Asprangeli and Elati, with the old mill. It is one of the most photographed bridges in Zagori and one of the few three-arched bridges that still survive. It is an impressive structure and a significant monument of cultural heritage. It offers plenty of photo opportunities and is a nice place to visit.