Dodoni nests on the slopes of Mount Olitsika, Tamaros or Tomaros of ancient written sources, is located just 22km south of Ioannina, hosts the ruins of the religious center and oracle of Zeus and Dioni and is one of those places that magically and mysteriously at some point will call you near them.
And just like that I found myself in this area, looking at the map one day and realizing that Dodoni is so close to me and I have passed it for so many years, continuing to other destinations. And somehow the decision was made, the suitcase was prepared and in just one hour from the port of Igoumenitsa we were in Dodoni.
If you are in Dodoni, the choice for your stay is one, it is located in the village of Mantio and it is called Mirtali Art Hotel and believe me, Katerina the owner, will make you love it so much that you will think of coming back just to relive the experience of staying. Whatever I say about its special style, the comfortable rooms and of course the rich breakfast, is little so I will show you photos and tell you go see for yourselves! My favorite place, the living / breakfast area with the huge windows so you can admire the wonderful view.
In the wider area of Dodoni there are the villages of Manteio, Agia Anastasia, Melingoi and some smaller ones that are waiting for you to discover. Having Manteio as a base, we were at a very good distance not only from the Archaeological Site, but also from Ioannina and other beautiful sites we visited. Keep reading for more!
The Ancient Theater of Dodoni is one of the largest and best preserved ancient Greek theaters, with a capacity of about 18,000 people and is truly a very imposing spectacle with special energy. The ancient Dodoni was the political and religious center of the Pelasgians of prehistoric times. The sacred Oracle is the oldest and most beloved to the gods, since Zeus himself defined it as his own Oracle.
Leaving Dodoni see also…
Near Dodoni, at the 30th kilometer of Ioannina-Arta near the village of Vouliasta, is the natural lake Viros formed by the springs of the Louros river, a place that you must visit and admire the wonderful colors of the water that become one with the green that surrounds them. Truly one of the most beautiful natural landscapes I have ever encountered.
Roman Aqueduct of Nikopolis
This magnificent project is 45-50 km long and consists of alternating overhead aqueduct systems with arches, a mountain tunnel, next to the modern PPC dam, and ground pipe systems. It is estimated that the construction of the Roman Aqueduct of Nikopolis lasted about thirty years and is considered one of the most important works of ancient engineering. Really impressive!
And somehow we reached the end of our trip. Dodoni you were wonderful!
Evita
