Árta between the Bridge and Antiquity

Árta combines a striking bridge with a history that extends beneath the present-day city. The ancient city of Ambrakia lies beneath Árta and covers half its area. Visible monuments and the archaeological past thus come together, providing an appealing setting for travellers interested in history, architecture and the different layers of a place.

Bridge, Museum and Ancient City

The Bridge of Árta is now 142 metres long and 3.75 metres wide, and consists of seven arches. Its origins are also associated with a legend: the wife of the master builder is said to have been placed under a spell so that the bridge could be built on solid ground. Alongside its precise dimensions and architecture, the story gives the structure a second, orally transmitted layer.

The Archaeological Museum of Árta opened in 2009 near the Arachthos River and the historic bridge. In the wider destination of Arta, the Archaeological Museum’s permanent exhibition is divided into the themes of public life, burial customs and private life. These areas offer different perspectives on the past: from community life and attitudes to death to everyday private life.

The location of the ancient city of Ambrakia beneath present-day Árta makes history tangible in spatial terms, too. Its area covers half the present-day city. For visitors, this offers a distinctive historical perspective: here, the present stands above the traces of an ancient city.

Commemoration and a Different Pace of City Life

The monument to the Jewish martyrs in Árta adds another solemn note. On its main side, a bas-relief depicts a seven-branched menorah, with its semicircular arms designed as wreaths. Alongside this enduring memorial, in recent years the Municipality of Árta, with the support of the music and literary association «Ο Σκουφάς», has organised multi-day events for the victims of the Holocaust.

A guided walk through Árta offers a journey through time, from antiquity to the present day. Getting to know the city this way allows you to consider the bridge, archaeological history and places of remembrance as distinct themes of a stay, rather than reducing them to a single landmark.

Riverside Park brings a different aspect of city life into focus. Designed as a recreational park, it gives residents the opportunity to escape the noise and routine of the city for a while. Historical themes and this park, described as a place of retreat, represent different facets that shape Árta.

Which accommodation suits your travel interests?

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Árta, you can start by considering which themes you would like to shape your stay: the history of the bridge, ancient traces, the museum’s exhibitions or commemorative culture. If you would like to focus more on relaxation amid city life, you can also take Riverside Park into account. This way, your accommodation search can reflect the interests that bring you to Árta.

More highlights in the wider destination of Arta

Beyond the city of Árta, the wider destination of Arta offers further nature and culture experiences. Peranthi Hill is the city forest of Arta and is suitable for walking, running, cycling and exploring. Tsoukalio Lagoon near Koronisia is home to the rare and endangered Dalmatian pelican; around 35 pairs are reported there, although the number may vary seasonally. The Salaora Information Centre features an exhibition on the human and natural environment of the Amvrakikos Gulf, a relief map of the region, live images from the pelican colony and audiovisual information for visitors.

The Vidra Trail is another option for planning an active route in the wider destination of Arta. It is 17.560 kilometres long, runs mainly along the west bank of the Arachthos and passes partly through the municipalities of North Tzoumerka and Arta. The trail starts at Plaka Bridge, passes Tzari Bridge and ends at the hydroelectric complex in the lowlands of Skoupa. These specific details help you understand the route’s length and course, without confusing it with a walk through the city of Árta.

Arta Castle and the Small Theatre of Amvrakia also add to the region’s historical picture. The castle dates from the Middle Byzantine period and is considered an example of Byzantine fortification. The Small Theatre was built between the late 4th and early 3rd centuries BC during the reign of Pyrrhus. The summer cultural programme in the wider destination of Arta is a festival featuring more than a hundred events from June to September, organised by the municipality, local cultural associations and private organisers. Check the current programme when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Theodoriana, Agios Spiridon, Kostakii, Mytikas, Vourgareli, Agnanta, Trapezaki, Lákka.

Go to the wider travel overview: Arta.