Bridge of Platania, Stone bridge in Platania, Greece
The Bridge of Platania is a single-arch stone structure crossing the Arachtos River at the boundary between Arta and Ioannina regions. Its tall arched passage carries traffic over the waterway below, creating a distinctive silhouette against the surrounding landscape.
The structure was built in 1863 by stonemasons from Pyrsogianni in Konitsa, with funding provided by Konstantinos Arvanitogiannis. Its construction marked an important development in connecting remote mountain regions that had been difficult to traverse before.
During World War II, the bridge became a symbol of resistance as ELAS and EDES forces signed an agreement here to unite against German occupation.
The bridge can be crossed on foot or by car and offers good views of the river valley from above. The location is accessible year-round, though water levels may rise noticeably after heavy rainfall.
Thousands of eggs were mixed with limestone during construction to create a porcelain-like binding substance that held the stones together. This unusual technique helped the structure withstand centuries of use.
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