Discover Kostakii: Church Art in Plisioi and Culture in Arta

In the nearby village of Plisioi stands a church with a distinctive architectural design and partially preserved painted decoration. In Arta, the range of sights extends from ancient and Byzantine buildings to river landscapes and wetlands.

Church Art and Archaeology Nearby

The Church of Agios Dimitrios Katsouris in the nearby village of Plisioi was built in a rare variation of the cross-in-square domed church type. A broad, cylindrical dome with a conical roof rises above the crossing of the arms of the cross. Christ Pantokrator is depicted in the dome, and the figure is partially preserved. Around him are tiers of angels and full-length prophets holding scrolls. The building thus stands out both for its unusual form and for the sequence of images in the dome.

Another archaeological site associated with Kostakii is “Palaiokklisi,” which is linked to a mosaic floor. A local festival also offered an opportunity to discover the region’s culinary side: at the first “Kername Paradosi” festival, visitors could sample local products and authentic flavors from the Arta region. It took place on a Sunday, June 7.

Culture and History in the Wider Destination of Arta

In Arta, the ancient city of Amvrakia lies beneath the modern city and covers half its area. The Small Theatre of Amvrakia was built between the late 4th and early 3rd centuries BC, during the reign of Pyrrhus. The Byzantine Castle of Arta also brings together several historical layers: it stands on a hill to the northeast of the city and incorporates parts of Amvrakia’s ancient fortifications. Dating from the Middle Byzantine period, the castle is considered a typical example of Byzantine fortification and bears witness to medieval Arta.

The Historic Bridge of Arta is 142 meters long and 3.75 meters wide. It acquired its present form between 1602 and 1606. The Church of Panagia Parigoritissa, dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, offers another perspective on Byzantine art. It is one of Arta’s most significant monuments and holds a prominent place in the history of Byzantine art. The permanent exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Arta is organized around the themes of public life, burial customs, and private life. The museum opened in 2009 near the Arachthos River and the Historic Bridge.

Landscapes and Activities in Arta

The landscapes across the wider destination of Arta offer a variety of experiences. Peranthi Hill is Arta’s urban forest and is suitable for walking, running, cycling, and exploring. Riverside Park covers approximately 165,000 square meters and lies on the Arachthos at the eastern edge of Arta, behind Krystalli Square and the central bus station. The park includes a small lake ecosystem and a thriving wetland, with opportunities for walking and recreation. Fishing is prohibited there.

The rare and endangered Dalmatian pelican lives at Tsoukalio Lagoon near Koronisia. The number of pairs is estimated at approximately 35 and may vary seasonally. The Salaora Information Center features an exhibition about 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.

Cultural Program and Trip Planning

The Cultural Summer in the wider destination of Arta runs from June to September and includes more than one hundred events. The festival is supported by the Municipality of Arta, local cultural associations, and private organizers. If you would like to plan your trip around a particular program, check the event dates separately for your stay.

You can prioritize these themes according to your interests: church architecture and archaeological remains offer a different focus from walks, cycling, or the wetland along the Arachthos. When choosing a hotel in Kostakii, consider which cultural or natural features matter most for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Anatolí, Agnanta, Vourgareli, Mesopirgos, Athamanio, Árta, Agios Spiridon, Katarraktis

For the overview of the wider destination: Arta.