Gitana Archaeological Site
The remains of the ancient Thesprotian city stand near the Kalamas and preserve traces of fortifications and public spaces. It is an evocative stop for learning about the region’s ancient history.
Europe / Greece · TRAVEL GUIDE
FiliatesEpirus · Greece
DISCOVER · PLAN · GO
George de la Poer Beresford · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER
One destination.
A thousand ways to live it.
In northwestern Greece, Filiates is a quiet base for exploring the interior of Thesprotia, amid mountains, villages, and the course of the Kalamas River. In the surrounding area, you can visit the archaeological site of ancient Gitana, historic monasteries, and landscapes that stretch all the way to the coast at .
6 places to see1 / 3 / 7-day itinerariesInteractive map
THE PLACES THAT TELL FILIATES
Worth seeing, worth remembering.
Giromeri Monastery
Founded in the 14th century, this Orthodox monastery is known for its secluded setting and for the church’s frescoes and decorations. The complex lies among the hills north of Filiates.
Filiates Folklore Museum
A collection devoted to local life and traditions, with objects, clothing, and evidence of the culture of Thesprotia. It is a good introduction to the area’s everyday history.
St. Minas Monastery in Kokkinolithari
A small monastic complex tied to local religious tradition, set in a secluded mountain landscape. The visit also offers scenic views over the inland countryside.
Mboesch · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
A coastal village in Thesprotia, appreciated for its harbor, fish tavernas, and peaceful atmosphere. In the surrounding area, you’ll also find stretches of coast ideal for a seaside stop.
Kalamas Delta
The river’s broad mouth forms a mosaic of wetlands, channels, and habitats frequented by numerous bird species. It is a pleasant destination for observing nature and discovering a different side of the Thesprotian coast.
CHOOSE YOUR PACE
How much time
do you have to get lost?
From a first stroll to a week of discoveries. A starting point to make your own.
An essential route that combines the Byzantine mysticism of Giromeri Monastery with the coastal flavors of nearby Sagiada.
- 1Historic center of Filiates
- 2Dormition Monastery of Giromeri
- 3Folklore Museum of Finiki
- 4Skala Sagiadas small harbor
Three days to explore historic villages, archaeological sites and the wild nature of the Kalamas River.
- 1Filiates Central Square
- 2Giromeri Monastery
- 3Traditional village of Finiki
- 4Ancient Gitana (Gitanae)
- 5Skala Sagiadas
- 6Keramidi Beach
- 7Lia Village
- 8Kalamas River Delta
An immersive journey among the peaks of Mount Mourgana, the literary legacy of Lia, and the Ionian coast on the border with Albania.
- 1Village of Filiates
- 2Byzantine Monastery of Giromeri
- 3Folklore Museum of Finiki
- 4Archaeological Site of Ancient Gitana
- 5Kalamas River Dam
- 6Historic village of Lia
- 7Nicholas Gage House-Museum in Lia
- 8Mountain village of Tsamantas
- 9Mount Mourgana
- 10Ragio Monastery
- 11Skala Sagiadas
- 12Keramidi Beach
- 13Byzantine Site of Mastilitsa
- 14Village of Kestrini
- 15Pagania Monastery
GET YOUR BEARINGS, THEN EXPLORE
The city takes shape.
Stop after stop.
BEFORE YOU GO
A well-planned trip.
How to get around
The center of Filiates is easy to explore on foot, but to visit the villages and surrounding area it is more convenient to have a car. The roads in the area can be narrow and winding: drive carefully and allow for longer travel times than the distance might suggest. Bus connections are limited compared with those of larger cities, so check schedules and stops before setting out. To reach or continue on to Igoumenitsa, check the connections in advance.
When to go
Spring and early autumn are pleasant times to visit Filiates, with generally milder temperatures and conditions suited to excursions in the surrounding area. In summer the days can be very hot, while winter is wetter and cooler. If you are traveling in high season, book accommodation in advance and bring water and sun protection for outings.
Where to eat
To sample the cuisine of Epirus, look for tavernas in the center and nearby villages: menus often feature traditional savory pies, local cheeses, and meat dishes. The offerings can vary depending on the season and the day, especially in smaller places. Ask what the daily specials are and check opening hours in advance.
Quick tips
- 01Check bus timetables before planning your trips: services can be infrequent.
- 02If you plan to visit the surrounding area, consider renting a car and allow extra time for driving.
- 03Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, especially if you are exploring steep streets or trails.
- 04Bring some cash: not all small businesses may accept card payments.
YOUR STARTING POINT
Wake up in the right place.
Where to stay · Filiates
1 night · max 14 nights
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1 night · 1 room · 2 adults · no children
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The Village
4th km Igoumenitsa-Sasiada, Igoumenitsa
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Mary's Home
Ασπροκκλησι, Asproklissi
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