Katarraktis: Waterfalls and Monastery

Katarraktis can be explored through two distinct travel interests: the footpath to the twin waterfalls of Tzoumerka and the Monastery of Saint Catherine. Alongside these natural and historical highlights, the village’s elevation provides geographical context: it is located at 800 metres.

Location and route to the twin waterfalls

The twin waterfalls are considered Katarraktis’s main attraction and are located seven kilometres from the village. The Monastery of Saint Catherine is in the village of the same name. This distinguishes the destinations by their relationship to the village: the monastery is in the village, while the waterfalls are a nearby destination. This geographical context is useful when planning your trip because it clarifies how the village relates to both attractions.

A footpath with paved sections and wooden bridges leads to the twin waterfalls of Tzoumerka. The seven kilometres indicate the waterfalls’ distance from the village; the path features, by contrast, describe the foot route. These are two distinct points of reference for planning: the destination’s location and the route’s features. Check the current condition of the path before your visit.

The Monastery of Saint Catherine

The Monastery of Saint Catherine of Katarraktis is located in the village of the same name. Its founding is dated to the period of Ottoman rule, more specifically to the late 17th to early 18th century. This timeframe places the monastery in its historical context and gives it a distinct place in the village’s history. For travellers who are also interested in history when choosing a destination, this dating, together with the monastery’s location in the village, offers a concrete point of reference.

The monastery’s most important reliquary is the icon of Saint Catherine, a work of art from the late 18th century. Its silver covering was made in 1820 by silversmiths from Kalarrites. The silverwork is therefore dated later than the work of art itself; the two dates refer to different parts of the same object. The silversmiths’ origin adds a specific craft connection to the historical context.

Taken together, the details show three historical periods: the founding of the monastery, the creation of the icon and the later making of its silver covering. This helps distinguish the monastery’s history from the history of its most important work of art.

Natural and historical highlights

The two highlights address different considerations when choosing your destination. For a nature-focused visit, the waterfall path is the main point of interest; factor both the distance from the village and the current condition of the footpath into your plans. For a cultural and historical focus, the monastery is the relevant destination, as it is in the village and features both a dated foundation and the reliquary. This comparison can help you choose what to explore in Katarraktis based on the interests you want to pursue during your trip.

Discover more destinations: Agnanta, Lákka, Melissourgoi, Árta, Theodoriana, Agios Spiridon, Anatolí, Mesopirgos

For the broader travel overview: Arta.