NOMOS PREVEZAS

PREVEZA

Population (according to 2021 census): 21.099

Photo source: https://www.newsbeast.gr/

History

The History of Preveza: From the Battle of Actium to the Liberation of 1912

Preveza: The Strategic Passage of the Ambracian Gulf

-The history of Preveza and the wider region is deeply rooted in antiquity and marked by intense shifts in sovereignty during later centuries. -The Ancient and Roman Era in the area of Preveza was defined by a world-changing event: the Battle of Actium, which led to the founding of Nikopolis. -The Battle of Actium, fought on September 2, 31 BC at the entrance of the Ambracian Gulf, is considered one of the most significant events in ancient history, as it determined the fate of the Roman Republic. -The forces of Octavian (the future first Roman emperor, Augustus) faced the alliance of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, queen of Egypt. -The strategic location of the strait, combined with the naval superiority of Octavian’s fleet, led to a crushing defeat of his opponents, who fled toward Egypt. -This victory secured Octavian’s final dominance in the Roman civil war, laid the foundations for the creation of the Roman Empire, and inaugurated the period known as Pax Romana (Roman Peace). -As the crowning act of his great victory, Octavian Augustus immediately founded Ancient Nikopolis (“City of Victory”) at a strategic point about 6 km north of modern Preveza. -The city was built on a grand scale, consolidating populations from neighboring cities of Epirus, Aetolia, and Acarnania (a process known as synoecism). -Nikopolis quickly grew into an important urban center, becoming the capital of the Roman province of Old Epirus (Epirus Vetus) and acquiring a strong Roman garrison as well as major infrastructure projects, such as the impressive Aqueduct that brought water from the springs of Agios Georgios, the Stadium, the Odeon, and a large Theater. -Its prosperity continued for many centuries, making it a shining example of Roman urban planning and imperial authority in the Eastern Mediterranean. -During the Early Christian and Early Byzantine Period (4th–7th c. AD), Nikopolis experienced a second major flourishing as the capital of Old Epirus and the seat of an Archbishopric, marked by the construction of many magnificent Basilicas. -However, devastating earthquakes and barbarian invasions (mainly by Slavs in the 6th and 7th centuries) caused the gradual decline of the great Roman city. -The population eventually withdrew to a fortified section, which was later abandoned as they sought safer, more easily defended settlements. -The present site of Preveza, at the entrance of the Ambracian Gulf, began to gain strategic significance as a natural passage (hence the name), serving as a port and a gateway between land and sea. -During the Middle Byzantine Period (10th–13th c.), the region became a battleground for conflicts between Byzantium and Western powers. -After the fall of the Byzantine Empire to the Franks in 1204 (Fourth Crusade), Preveza became part of the newly established Despotate of Epirus. -The first written reference to Preveza as a settlement dates to 1292 in documents related to Venice, indicating its growing commercial importance. -In the 14th century, Epirus came under pressure from Serbs, Albanians, and Italian families (such as the Orsini and the Tocco), each attempting to assert control, plunging the city into a period of political instability and frequent shifts in power. -In the 15th century, the situation grew more complex with the rise of the Ottoman threat. After the fall of Constantinople (1453), the Ottomans expanded their control into Western Greece. -However, Preveza—being a vital port for controlling commerce and access to the Adriatic—became the focal point of competition between the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. -Venetian rule in Preveza was intermittent but significant, with the longest period lasting from 1718 to 1797. -The Venetians strengthened the city’s fortifications, building or reconstructing its castles—an influence still visible in Preveza’s architecture and urban structure. -The Modern History of Preveza is marked by a continuous struggle among major powers to control its port, with the actions of Ali Pasha standing out. -From the 15th to the 18th century, Preveza was shaped by fierce rivalry between the Ottoman Empire and Venice, as the city was key to controlling the Adriatic. -The Venetians captured it multiple times, with their final rule (1718–1797) being the most significant, during which the fortifications were reinforced. -In 1797, with the fall of Venice, Preveza briefly came under French rule under Napoleon, which brought the city into conflict with the powerful Ali Pasha of Ioannina. -The Albanian ruler besieged and captured the city in 1798, followed by one of the most tragic chapters in local history: the “Massacre of Preveza,” during which thousands of Greeks and French soldiers were killed or taken prisoner. -After his victory, Ali Pasha annexed the city into his semi-autonomous state, strengthening its castles and turning it into a key commercial and military outpost until 1820. -With the outbreak of the Greek War of Independence in 1821, Preveza—despite participating actively in the struggle—remained outside the borders of the first Greek state and was returned to direct Ottoman control after Ali Pasha’s fall. -Despite its geographical proximity to free Greece, the city remained under Ottoman occupation for nearly a century, developing a strong national consciousness and vibrant commercial activity. -The long-awaited liberation finally came during the First Balkan War, when on October 21, 1912, the Greek Army entered Preveza after a successful military operation. It became the first major city of Epirus to be liberated, marking its definitive incorporation into the Greek state and the end of a long period of foreign domination.

Traditions

The Identity of Preveza: Sea, Epirus, and Urban Tradition

Preveza: The Tradition of the Ambracian Gulf

-The tradition of Preveza is deeply influenced by its geographical position, namely its relationship with the sea, the Ambracian Gulf, and the broader Epirotic hinterland. -Fishing constitutes the backbone of traditional life in Preveza, with the Ambracian Gulf—one of the most important lagoons of the Mediterranean—being the main area of activity. -Traditional fishermen employ special techniques, such as fishing with vivaria (natural fish farms) and divaria, cultivating a unique relationship with the marine environment. This centuries-old professional tradition not only preserves the character of the region but also ensures the production of exceptional products such as avgotaracho (cured fish roe). -Preveza historically developed around its port, which functioned as a pivotal passage at the entrance of the Ambracian Gulf and as a point of transshipment. -This strategic position made it a commercial hub for the wider region of Epirus, connecting the agricultural and livestock products of the hinterland with the markets of the West, especially during the Venetian period. -The commercial prosperity of the city is still reflected today in the urban architecture of the old town, where two-storey mansions and old commercial shops survive—testimonies to the economic vitality and cosmopolitan culture that prevailed when Preveza was an important stop on the route to the Ionian Islands and Italy. -The musical and dance tradition of Preveza is an intriguing blend of elements, combining the heavy, imposing sound of the Epirotic interior with the lighter, urban influences that came with its identity as a port and crossroads. -As part of Epirus, the musical tradition of Preveza—especially in villages and semi-mountainous areas—is dominated by the Epirotic style. This is characterized by a tone of passion and deep emotion, with a slow and often improvisational rhythm that lends grandeur to the dances. -The clarinet (or the zournas in earlier times) plays a leading role, carrying the main melodic line along with the violin, while the lute and the tambourine provide rhythm. -The dances are primarily syrtos and tsamikos, where the movement is slow and evocative, emphasizing endurance, dignity, and a ceremonial atmosphere, often accompanied by extended instrumental sections (taximia). -In contrast to the Epirotic hinterland, the city of Preveza—being a commercial port with a long Venetian history and contacts with the Ionian Islands and Italy—developed a more urban (port-side) musical character. -This character was expressed through lighter melodies that at times resemble island songs or bear influences from the Asia Minor tradition. -Musical groups in the traditional cafés and ouzeri along the waterfront often played music rich in elements of entertainment and joy, accompanying local delicacies and ouzo and creating a relaxed, social atmosphere far removed from the solemnity of mountain festivals. This tradition remains evident today in the city’s vibrant live-music venues. -The traditional musical ensemble (zygía) of the wider region typically includes the clarinet as the main instrument for melody and improvisation, the violin as an accompanying or equally melodic instrument, and the lute providing the harmonic and rhythmic foundation along with the tambourine (or other percussion). -Among the dances, the Tsamiko stands out—a men’s dance requiring strength and skill, with the raised arm symbolizing bravery—and the Syrtos (Syrtos of Preveza), a slow, circular dance that forms the basis of nearly every local celebration. -Preveza, as a seaside town with a strong religious and social character, maintains customs and festivals that combine worship, entertainment, and honor for fishing life. -The religious character of Preveza is expressed through the veneration of its patron saint, Saint Charalambos, with a grand procession and festive events. -One of the most distinctive local customs is the Feast of Saint Pelagia, considered the protector of sailors and fishermen. It is celebrated on May 4th, mainly in coastal villages such as Mytikas. -The custom includes the procession of the saint’s icon, with locals gathering at the church of Saint Pelagia for the service, followed by traditional festivities with dances and Epirotic music. This festival is an important social event that blends devotion with celebration. -Preveza has a strong and longstanding Carnival tradition, with festivities peaking during the Apokries period. Special emphasis is placed on satirical parades, dance events, and masquerades that reflect the humor and social commentary of the locals. -The Clean Monday custom stands out in the city: due to its location by the sea and the Ambracian Gulf, the Koulouma celebrations are closely connected with seafood and ouzo. -The people of Preveza usually celebrate on the waterfront or nearby beaches, flying kites and enjoying traditional Lenten appetizers, giving a distinctly port-side flavor to the beginning of Lent. -Due to the richness of the Ambracian Gulf, Preveza often hosts Fish Festivals during the summer months, especially in its fishing villages, honoring the fishing tradition. In contrast, the hinterland preserves customs related to hunting and livestock breeding, which are more common in inland Epirus. -Fishing in the Ambracian Gulf largely maintains its traditional character, with fishermen using small wooden boats. A distinctive feature of the area is the divaria, traditional fish-catching barriers placed at the entrances of the lagoons. -Preveza is also associated with the modern literary history of Greece, mainly because of the poet Kostas Karyotakis, who served there as a civil servant and committed suicide in 1928. -The poet’s presence and tragic end have linked the city with a melancholic, poetic dimension, expressed in his well-known poem “Preveza.”

Local products

Flavors of Preveza: The “Golden Treasures” of the Ambracian Gulf and the Epirotic Tradition

Local Products of Preveza and the Gastronomy of the Ambracian Gulf

-The products found in and originating from Preveza are largely shaped by the Ambracian Gulf and its connection to the livestock-based tradition of Epirus. -The seafood and fish of the Ambracian Gulf constitute the “gold” of Preveza and fully justify their exceptional reputation. -The Ambracian Shrimp, known locally as gámpari, is the most recognizable and sought-after product of the region. Its excellent reputation comes from the fact that it lives in brackish waters, where the river estuaries (Louros, Arachthos) meet the sea. -This environment gives it a distinctively sweet and delicate flavor that sets it apart from open-sea shrimp. It is fished using traditional methods, and demand is so high that it often cannot meet market needs. -Ambracian Avgotaracho (cured mullet roe) is considered one of the finest delicacies worldwide and has received Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. -It is produced from the roe sacs of the female mullet (báfa), which is caught mainly in the lagoons of the gulf. -Its production follows a centuries-old traditional process: the roe sacs are carefully removed, salted, sun-dried, and then coated with a layer of natural wax for preservation. -Beyond shrimp and mullet, the Ambracian Gulf is rich in other fish species that support the local market and gastronomy. -Papalina is the local variety of sardine—smaller in size but exceptionally flavorful. Additionally, wild sea bass and gilthead seabream thrive in the gulf’s waters, while eels are particularly popular. These eels, found in the Ambracian, are renowned for their quality due to the purity of the waters and are often traditionally smoked. -The city also has a long tradition in ouzo production, with historic distilleries operating for decades. The ouzo of Preveza is known for its quality and distinctive aromas, pairing perfectly with the seafood of the gulf.

Tourism

Preveza as a Destination: A Meeting Point of Ancient History, Natural Beauty, and the Ionian Sea

Sights and Activities in Preveza

-Preveza is a destination that uniquely combines history, nature, and seaside holidays. -The town of Preveza itself has several features that make it a noteworthy destination. The heart of Preveza beats in the Old Town, a network of picturesque, narrow alleyways that preserve the traditional 19th-century architecture. -This area extends to the busy waterfront, which serves as the city's main social and entertainment center. The promenade offers views of fishing boats and sailboats moored there, linking the city to the aquatic element. -At the center of the Old Town stands the Venetian Clock Tower, a landmark dating back to the Venetian period and a living testimony to the city’s successive rulers. It is one of the most recognizable architectural features of Preveza. -In close proximity lies the Metropolitan Church of Saint Charalambos, the city's patron saint. The church is known for its impressive wooden iconostasis, an example of rare wood-carving craftsmanship that reflects the flourishing of ecclesiastical art and the city’s economic capacity in more recent times. -Preveza is surrounded by historic fortresses built mainly during the Venetian period and the Ottoman era (Ali Pasha). -The Fortress of Saint Andrew (or Its Kale), located in the northern part of the city, is the largest and most imposing, overlooking the Ambracian Gulf. Directly opposite, at the entrance of the port, stands the Fortress of Pantokrator. -These fortifications demonstrate the strategic importance of the city as a gateway between the Ionian Sea and the Gulf, as they controlled maritime passage. Today, they offer visitors not only a historical journey but also panoramic views of the sea. -Another important element of urban life, directly linked to the history of Preveza, is the maritime crossing to Aktio, which has been vital from antiquity (when it was done by boats) to the present day (via the Preveza–Aktio Undersea Tunnel). -Before the construction of the tunnel, the port and the old Customs House served as the gateway to the southern side of the gulf and to Aetolia-Acarnania. -This role as a "transit hub" shaped the character of the city, boosting trade and the movement of people, and preserving its identity as “Preveza”—a passage. -Ancient Nikopolis (City of Victory) is the most important archaeological site in the region and is directly linked to Octavian’s victory in the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. -The city was founded as a pan-Hellenic sanctuary and capital of the Roman province of Old Epirus, reaching great prosperity. -The surviving monuments testify to its wealth and size, including impressive examples of Roman urban planning such as the Odeon, the Stadium, the Roman Walls, and the large Theatre. -Today, visitors can appreciate the evolution of the city through the centuries—from the Roman phase to the Early Christian period, with its large basilicas—while the modern Archaeological Museum houses the rich findings of excavations. -The Nekromanteion of Acheron near the village of Mesopotamos is one of the most mysterious sanctuaries of the ancient world. -It was dedicated to the gods of the Underworld, Hades and Persephone, and was believed to be the place where the living could communicate with the souls of the dead, as it was thought to be located at the confluence of the Acheron River with its tributaries Cocytus and Pyriphlegethon. -The site, which has been identified with descriptions by ancient authors, presents special architectural interest with underground chambers and walls indicating its mystical and ritual use. -On the Zalongo mountain range, north of Preveza, stands one of the most moving monuments of Modern Greek History: the sculptural complex by George Zongolopoulos, erected in memory of the mass sacrifice of the Souliot women in 1803. To avoid capture and dishonor, they chose to leap with their children into the abyss, dancing a final dance after the fall of Souli to the forces of Ali Pasha. -Access to the monument is via a path with 410 steps, and the site offers, apart from its historical significance, an exceptional panoramic view of the plain and the Ionian Sea. -Preveza emerges as a destination of natural beauty and adventure thanks to its unique geographical position, combining the extended coastline of the Ionian Sea with the protected Ambracian Gulf. -The Ambracian, one of Europe’s most important wetlands (Ramsar Convention), is a paradise for ecotourism, where visitors can join organized tours for birdwatching (such as Dalmatian pelicans and cormorants) and dolphin-watching (bottlenose dolphins). -In contrast, the hinterland offers intense experiences along the mythical Acheron River and the "Gates of Hades," where rafting, canoe-kayak, and hiking activities are organized through the cold waters of the gorge. Complementing these is the serene Lake Ziros, a rare doline phenomenon, which provides opportunities for cycling and leisurely walks through forested landscapes. -The coastline of Preveza along the Ionian Sea is famous for its sandy, expansive beaches, considered among the cleanest in Greece, offering a combination of relaxation and fully organized tourist facilities. -Monolithi Beach holds a dominant position; with a length exceeding 20 kilometers, it is considered the largest sandy beach in the country and is an ideal choice for those seeking both organized spots and tranquility. -Further south, the beaches of Kastrosykia, Vrachos, and Loutsa have developed into popular seaside resorts, offering full services in accommodation, dining, and water sports, attracting mainly families and young visitors.