Ioannina is the largest city in the Epirus region of Greece and the capital of the Ioannina regional unit. It is situated on the western shore of Lake Pamvotida (or Lake Ioannina) and is surrounded by mountains, making it a scenic destination. The city has a population of approximately 112,000 people.
One of the notable attractions in Ioannina is the Island of Ioannina, also known as Nissi (Island) or Nissi Pamvotida. This island is located within Lake Pamvotida and is accessible by boats departing from the city’s waterfront. The island is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. It is home to the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, a 17th-century monastery that offers panoramic views of the lake and the city.
Ioannina has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It became an important city during the Byzantine Empire and later came under Ottoman rule in the late 14th century. The city flourished under Ottoman control and became a center of learning and culture. Today, visitors can explore the historic district of Ioannina, known as Kastro (Castle), which features traditional architecture, narrow streets, and ancient walls. Within the castle, you can find several museums, such as the Byzantine Museum and the Municipal Ethnographic Museum, which showcase the city’s cultural heritage.
Apart from its historical sites, Ioannina offers a vibrant atmosphere with a bustling market, lively waterfront, and a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The city is also known for its traditional silversmithing craft, and visitors can find exquisite silverware and jewelry in the local shops.
In terms of natural beauty, Ioannina is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and outdoor opportunities. The nearby Zagori region is famous for its stone villages, stone bridges, and stunning hiking trails, attracting nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Overall, Ioannina is a captivating city that combines history, natural beauty, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich past, enjoying the scenic surroundings, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Ioannina has much to offer.
Paddocks: Hotel “The Lake” https://goo.gl/maps/RzeDeGQ2EcfyBv946
Enjoy: International Roads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Sew6XDkBoc&t=2s
Ioannina Airport: www.ioanninaairport.eu, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eNk146lNafM&t=11s
Zagoria Villages: English https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnSzaKKuFGA&t=76s & German version https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4JJt_7x-XM&t=62s
LAKE PAMVOTIDA
Lake Pamvotida (ancient name Pamvotis meaning “she who feeds everyone”), also known as Lake Ioannina,
is located at an altitude of 483 meters above sea level. It is approximately 7.9 kilometers long, 1.5 to 5.4 kilometers wide,
4-5 meters average depth, 11 meters maximum depth and 19.4 square kilometers in area.
It is surrounded by the mountains of Mitsikeli and the eastern slopes of Tomar (or Olytsika) and is formed by the waters
of three main springs (Drabandovas, Sendenikos and Kryas), which spring up at the foot of Mitsikeli.
It is connected with the legends of Kyra – Frosyn and Durahan.
Lake Pamvotida, this historic lake of Ioannina, one of the oldest in the world (about 7 million years old)
is located between the city of Ioannina and Mount Mitsikeli.
It is formed by the waters of various springs that emerge at the foot of Mitsikeli.
It is a shallow lake with an average depth of 4.5m and a size that reaches 24 square kilometers.
IOANNINA ISLAND
The Island of Ioannina is an island and a settlement, located in the lake of Ioannina (Pamvotida). Its population according to the 2011 Census is 219 inhabitants, while it is one of the two inhabited islands in a lake in Greece, the other being Agios Achillios at Prespes.
The island is located in the north-western part of the lake, very close -opposite- to the settlement of Amphithea.
It has an area of 200 acres and a maximum elevation of 520 meters above sea level or 59 meters above the surface of the lake.[citation needed] Its maximum length is 800 meters and its width is 500 meters. Its western side is marshy while the rest of it is rocky and forested for the most part.
