A Solo Cultural Escape to Ioannina

A Day Steeped in History

Ioannina, Greece, has welcomed me with open arms, and I've eagerly plunged into its embrace. Today was all about stepping back in time, wandering through ancient walls, and imagining the lives of those who walked these paths centuries before. It's a truly immersive experience, and I'm thrilled to share my first day's adventures with you.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at MAISON Gourmet · Coffee · Bar. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of local pastries were the perfect start to my explorations. Fuelled and ready, I set off to explore the famed Castle of Ioannina.


Explore the Castle of Ioannina, a historical gem in Greece that offers stunning views and rich cultural heritage in a captivating setting.
The Castle of Ioannina isn't just a single structure; it's a sprawling, fortified old town, a living museum teeming with history at every turn. As I walked through the main gate, located at the end of Averoff Street, I was immediately transported to another era. The stones beneath my feet seemed to whisper tales of Byzantine emperors, Ottoman rulers, and the legendary Ali Pasha. It’s the oldest continuously inhabited Byzantine castle in Greece, a fact that adds to its allure.


Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Ali Pasha's Tomb in Ioannina, Greece, a must-visit site for history and nature lovers.
My first stop was Ali Pasha's Tomb, a site shrouded in both reverence and intrigue. Ali Pasha, the Lion of Ioannina, was a celebrated, yet rebellious figure in Ottoman history. The tomb itself is a simple yet dignified monument, a reminder of a man who left an indelible mark on this region. I learned that after his assassination in 1822 on the Island of Pamvotis, only his body was buried here, while his head was sent to Istanbul.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Next, I ventured into the Ali Pasha and Revolutionary Period Museum, housed within the Monastery of Saint Panteleimon. The museum is home to a rich collection of artifacts related to Ali Pasha and the Greek revolutionary period. I was particularly fascinated by Ali Pasha's gold-plated kariofili (rifle) and the silver sword of Apostolos Arsakis. It was fascinating to see the personal items and learn more about the man and the era.


Explore the captivating history of Greece at the Ali Pasha and Revolutionary Period Museum on Ioannina Island, where stories of the past come to life.
Wandering deeper into the castle, I found myself drawn to the Its Kale, the southeastern citadel. This separate fortress within the old town has a history stretching back to the Hellenistic period. The Tower of Bohemond, a relic from the Byzantine era, stood proudly in the center. I imagined the archontes, the city’s nobles, who once resided here. Later, under Ali Pasha, the Its Kale was rebuilt to become his main residence.

The Fethiye Mosque, with its elegant dome, is another striking landmark within the Its Kale. Originally built after the Ottoman conquest in 1430, it was later reconstructed by Ali Pasha in 1795. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's diverse cultural influences. I learned that the mosque was built on the site of a Byzantine church.

As the day progressed, I explored the northeastern citadel, where the Aslan Pasha Mosque is located. This mosque, built in 1618, now houses the Municipal Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina. Inside, I discovered collections representing the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim communities of the city, offering a glimpse into their unique traditions and histories. There were oriental fabrics, wooden furniture from the Ali Pasha era, and even ecclesiastical silverware.

Before leaving the castle for dinner, I stopped by PAGOURI est. in Ioannina, a charming shop filled with handmade gifts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small items to remind me of my time here and perhaps a little something for Hans-Peter and Emily.


Explore PAGOURI in Ioannina for unique handmade gifts and souvenirs, embodying the essence of Greek craftsmanship.
For dinner, I chose Frontzou Politia Restaurant, known for its traditional Greek cuisine and stunning views. I savored local delicacies while enjoying the sunset over the city. It was the perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery. The June weather in Ioannina is pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 25°C, ideal for walking and exploring.


Discover the exquisite flavors of traditional Greek cuisine at Frontzou Politia Restaurant in Ioannina with stunning hilltop views.
Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Ioannina's rich cultural heritage with visits to the Byzantine Museum, the Silversmithing Museum, and the Municipal Ethnographic Museum. And perhaps, in the evening, I'll unwind at Refren Music Bar. It’s important to immerse myself in the local culture, and I find that taking time to enjoy local music is essential. I did miss Hans-Peter today, as I know he would have loved wandering through the castle with me, discussing the architectural details and historical significance of each site. But I know he's cheering me on from Berlin.

Ioannina has already captured my heart with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. I look forward to sharing more of my adventures with you as I continue my solo journey through this enchanting city. I must remember to buy a new pair of sunglasses tomorrow, as I forgot mine at home! I also need to buy a reusable water bottle, as I am trying to reduce my plastic consumption.

Good night from Ioannina! I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!