Parga, is a small town located on the northwest coast of Greece, with approximately 2500 inhabitants. Its main feature is the beautiful surroundings. Parga is ideal for relaxation and walking. Its history began many centuries ago. Due to some archeological findings, Parga is believed to have been inhabited since the Neolithic. However, Parga appears more clearly in Greek history since Byzantine times. Along with its history, the city was conquered by the Venetians, who built the castle of Parga, and was destroyed by pirates. It was also ruled by the Russians and the British, who finally sold it to Ali Pasha in the 19th century. The inhabitants moved near the island of Corfu to escape the cruelty of the Turks and returned to their homeland after the liberation of Greece in 1819. However, Parga became part of the Greek state a century later, in 1913. An interesting archeological site to visit in Parga is its Venetian castle, located at the top of a hill. This castle has several interesting Venetian and Turkish features and offers a picturesque view of the ceramic roofs of the houses and the bay.
In addition to the archeological sites, Parga has a beautiful view. Much of the greenery that surrounds the city consists of huge olive trees, planted by the Venetians in the 16th century. In fact, the production of olive oil consists of a large income for the inhabitants of this city. Parga houses are amphitheatrically built, scattered along a sheltered bay. Although Parga is not an island, it can be said that it has a certain “island atmosphere”. In addition, Parga has developed a lot of tourist facilities in recent years. Most restaurants offer traditional, home-cooked Greek food and there are plenty of places to stay, from camping and rental rooms to luxury hotels. The locals are also very friendly. Most tourists are Greeks, who want to spend a few relaxing days, but Parga also has a lot of Italian visitors, due to its proximity to the Italian coast. Last but not least, the area around Parga has several picturesque villages and beautiful beaches to visit. These beaches can be reached on foot or by boat from the port and are obliged to provide you with relaxing moments. Visiting Parga guarantees special holidays, with the opportunity to enjoy this city and explore the rich natural area around it.
Venetian castle Parga
Parga Castle is located on top of a hill overlooking the city and was used to protect the city from land and sea. It was originally built in the 11th century by the people of Parga to protect their city from pirates and Turks, but was partially destroyed by such invasions. In the 13th century, the Venetians rebuilt the castle to strengthen the area. In 1452 Parga was occupied by the Turks and destroyed part of the castle. Then, in the 16th century, it was rebuilt for the fourth time by the Venetians, who rebuilt the fortress. They built eight towers outside the castle and two cisterns to supply the castle with water during the war. When the castle, like the whole city, was sold to the Turks in 1813, it was further strengthened and given a new building called the hammam at the top, to house the sultan’s harem.
Today, Parga Castle is a great expression of Venetian architecture, as such architectures dominate. There are some interesting details, such as the Lion from Venice at the entrance, emblems of Ali Pasha, some inscriptions and a secret path to the sea. The location of this castle obviously offers a beautiful view of Parga and the coast. It is also a peaceful area for walking, surrounded by cypresses and crossed by stone paths. The most common way to go is the steep street that leads out of the city center.
BEACHES
Sarakiniko Beach
Located in a sandy bay 12 km from the capital Parga, Saracinico is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in Parga. It has fine white sand and mesmerizing turquoise, crystal clear water. Isolated with lush greenery and olive groves, Sarakiniko boasts a beautiful natural landscape, ideal for couples and families. Around Sarakiniko you will find many accommodation options, traditional taverns and facilities.
Valtos Beach
This beach is 3 km long, Valtos is the largest beach in Parga. Located below the hill, where the Venetian castle is located, Valtos beach has an idyllic background. It is a long sandy beach with pebbles and clear waters, while, thanks to its location, it is protected from strong winds. Valtos Beach also has water sports facilities, which means you can test your talent in surfing, water skiing, diving and more if you like.
Amudia Beach
Amudia is a large sandy beach, with cyan-colored water and a beautiful natural setting. Swimming in its mesmerizing waters, you can feel the fluctuation of the water temperature. This is because Ammoudia Beach is located at the mouth of the Acherondas River. The Acherondas River is a perfect place for extreme sports, such as canoeing and rafting, as well as horseback riding. Amundia Beach also covers all the basics when it comes to water sports: diving, water skiing, jet skiing and sailing are just some of the water sports you can do there.
Alonaki Beach
If you are looking for a beach with a wild natural background to immerse yourself in relaxation, a visit to Alonaki Beach is your best option. It is located in a rocky but green bay, Alonaki can be reached by land. Once you reach the beach, the view will leave you breathless. Just imagine hills lined with trees, turquoise clear water, endless sand and lush greenery… It is an absolute exotic paradise.