Pogoni: Epirus’ Paradise

Pogoni, a unique, magical place with great tradition and history. Pogoni is in the northwest of the prefecture of Ioannina , extends to 701 square Km. and consists of the villages of Agia Marina, Agios Kosmas, Upper Ravenna, Argyrochori, Areti, Vassiliko, Vissani, Vrontismeni, Geroplatanos, Delvinaki, Dimokori, Dolo, Doliana, Psilokastro, Drymades, Ieromnimon, Kakolakkos, Kalpaki Kastaniani, Katarraktes, Lower Merope, Lower Ravenna, Kerasovo, Kefalovriso, Kouklioi, Krioneri,Ktismata, Lavdani, Limni, Mazaraki, Mavropoulo, Chrysodouli, Merope, Negrades,  Xirovalto, Palaiopyrgos, Parakalamos, Peristeri, Pontikates, Pogoniani, Repetisti, Roupsia, Sitaria, Stafroskiadi, Stratinista, Teriachi, Faraggi, Chrysorrachi, Haravgi, and Oreokastro.

It is said that got its name from the Emperor of Byzantium Pogonatos who lived here around 700 AD.
Part of  Pogoni now belongs to Konitsa prefecture and another part to Albania. Famous for its rich nature and tradition, is a mainly troubled region rspecially during the Second World War as well as during the Civil War but also because of emigration that was experienced intensely by its inhabitants. The pain of exile became the stimulus for Pogonisian songs and especially the polyphonic songs which are an excellent example of a unique phenomenon of the Greek traditional music.
Pogoni is famous for its strong tradition through the centuries. The Pogonisian festivals are the best example of traditional music, dance, clothing and cooking. The festivals were and are thought to be a reunion of Pogonisians who come from any corner of the world to be reunited in their villages.
The villages of Pogoni exemplify the architecture of the area and are built with local materials. Each village is exceptionally beautiful and in combination with the wildlife are a great holiday destination while exploring this part of Greece’s mainland. A piece of  Greece which is still traditional and magically wonderful as though living in the past.

Source: Visitpogoni.com