Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659), Thessaly Travel Guide

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Discover the historic Manolis Bridge near Karpenisi, Greece: a 17th-century architectural marvel that emerges and disappears with the seasons.

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Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659)

The Manolis ancient stone bridge, built in 1659, is a single-arched bridge near Karpenisi, Greece, that once provided a crucial passage across the Agrafiotis River. Today, it stands as a picturesque historical landmark, partially submerged in the Kremasta Lake, its visibility fluctuating with the seasons.

A brief summary to Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659)

Καρπενήσι, 361 00, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659).

Visit during the late summer or early fall for the best chance to see the entire bridge when the water levels are at their lowest.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area around the bridge, as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery and the unique phenomenon of the disappearing bridge.

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Explore Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659) on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659), mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

To reach Manolis Bridge by car, start from Karpenisi and follow the road towards Agrinio. After the village of West Fragista, take the road towards Tsuka. You will soon see the bridge on your left. Parking is available near the bridge. There are no tolls on this route. Be aware that the roads can be narrow and winding.
Public Transport

To get to Manolis Bridge using public transport, take a KTEL bus from Athens, Thessaloniki, or Lamia to Karpenisi. From Karpenisi, you can hire a taxi to the bridge, which is approximately 55 km away. A taxi ride will cost approximately €40-€50.

Discover more about Manolis ancient stone bridge (1659)

The Manolis Bridge, a remarkable example of Greek folk architecture, was constructed in 1659 by Dimitrios and Manolis Chrysiotis. Chrysiotis, a craftsman from Epirus, considered the bridge his 'son' as he and his wife were childless, and he built it to connect Evrytania with western Central Greece. The bridge is a single-arched structure with a diameter of approximately 30 meters and a height of 22 meters, showcasing the craftsmanship of its time.For nearly 300 years, the Manolis Bridge served as the primary crossing point over the Agrafiotis River. However, the construction of the Kremasta Dam in 1964 led to the creation of an artificial lake, submerging the bridge for much of the year. Depending on the season and rainfall, the bridge appears and disappears, with the entire structure typically visible during the summer months when water levels are low. In winter, only the arch may be seen.Despite its periodic submersion, the Manolis Bridge remains a testament to the enduring quality of its construction and the beauty of its design. Visitors can admire the bridge, explore the surrounding natural landscape, and reflect on the history and legends associated with this unique landmark.