Artotivas Bridge

A unique work of art and culture

The bridge stands imposing at the narrowest point of Evinos River, just before meeting with the tributary of Kotsalos, between two rocky and steep hills. Due to its strategic location, is a well-known site of major battles during the period of the Turkish occupation and the 1821 War of Independence, but also during the period of the civil war.

A unique work of art and culture!.!

The Artotiva bridge (also called the “Kamara” or the “Venetiko”) is a reference point for the locals and is inextricably linked to the history, economy and social life of the wider region. It served the transportation needs of the mountain hinterland (mountainous Nafpaktia, Evritania) with Thermos, the plains of Trichonida and Messolonghi. It was probably built during the first Venetian rule (1407-1499). In its current form it is considered the work of Epirot or local stone masons on the second half of the 18^th century.

The bridge stands imposing at the narrowest point of Evinos River, just before meeting with the tributary of Kotsalos, between two rocky and steep hills. The bridge got its name from the nearby village of Artotiva (now named Achladokastro). It is one of the oldest bridges in Aitoloakarnania, single-arch, stone-built with mortar and arch width of 23,65 m, while its total length reaches 42 m. The surface from the two ends of the bridge to the top proceeds with tiered landings. The final layer is carefully constructed cobblestones.

The bridge, due to its strategic location, is a well-known site of major battles during the period of the Turkish occupation and the 1821 War of Independence, but also during the period of the civil war. About 1,600 people that survived the heroic exodus of Messolonghi (10 April 1826), passed through the bridge following the only path to the mountains used by the ancient Aitolians.

The bridge can be accessed via a rough dirt road, following the route – Thermo – Avarikos, Dosula – Artotiva Bridge or via Thermo – Kato Chrysovitsa – Dosula – Artotiva Bridge, where it is marked accordingly. Alternatively, one can reach the bridge via the trail that starts from Kato Chrysovitsa. Hiking on a slightly downhill course from the village Platanos – Pogonia — St. Vlasis — Linarakia continuing on the southern bank of the river Kotsalos you arrive at the bridge of Artotiva.

Those who want easier access to the historic bridge should go to the village of Achladokastro, where a short distance after the village they can take a 45-minute journey on a well-marked path.