Sights Το γεφύρι του Βοϊδομάτη Info and Map for Kleidonia Δυτικό Ζαγόρι, Konitsa

THE BRIDGE OF VOIDOMATIS

The bridge of Voidomatis (or Kleidoniavistas) is located on the river Voidomatis, 2 km. away from Klidonia of Konitsa. The location is beautiful and full of trees. Many years ago some efforts were made to bridge. But in the early 19th century the bridge collapsed and in 1853 in its place was built a new stone bridge that exists till today. The Balzik Khanum, the wife of Makil Pasha, placed 37.00 piastres to build the bridge. The Voidomatis bridge is one arched, with an opening of about 20 meters and a height of over 9 meters. At the base of the bridge, on the left bank, a recess stands where formerly was said that it was placed the image of a saint. The Voidomatis bridge is a frequent tourist destination and next begins one of the most beautiful trails that passes along the river and crosses the ravine.

The area of ​​the bridge of Voidomatis is connected with one of the greatest crimes committed in the Zagori region.  Protagonists of the episodes were the families of Geraini and Stamatis who lived in the old village of Agios Minas. Daughter Geraini dressed bride with her relatives went to the groom's house. Their fellow villager Stamatis however, because he did not want the wedding, ambushed along with their friends and relatives in Voidomatis bridge. A battle followed where the relatives of the bride were killed. But violence continued in the coming years, leading other people to permanently leave the village.

Voidomatis is tributary of Aoos and has been described as the cleanest and most beautiful river of Europe due to its crystal waters. The name comes from the Slavic word voda which means water and mati which means source. Voidomatis crosses the National Park of Vikos-Aoos and the Gorge of Vikos and is offered for various sports such as kayaking and rafting. The river has a length of 15 km. and is one of the few rivers that their water is drinkable. The water has a constant temperature of 4C throughout the year, but many people do not hesitate to try a dip during the summer months.

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