Ioannina

The historic Ali Pasha palace is another must-see site in Ioannina. The legendary Ottoman administrator Ali Pasha built this towering castle in the 18th century, and it now stands as a tribute to the region’s complex history. Visitors can visit the castle’s many rooms, towers, and courtyards, as well as learn about the castle’s significance in the Ottoman Empire’s resistance.

The Ottoman Empire left its mark in the city of Ioannina, which is full of Eastern architectural style buildings, as well as mosques. The Castle, which was the heart of the Despotate of Epirus, is located in the center of the town. The south-eastern citadel bears the name Its Kale («inner fortress» in Turkish) and this is where the Fethiye Mosque (Victory Mosque) is located, built-in 1430 on the ruins of a Byzantine church. Its final form was given by Ali Pasha in 1795.

Impressive museums and lovely gastronomy

Ioannina is also home to several impressive museums, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Archaeological Museum of Ioannina features a fascinating collection of artifacts from the city’s ancient past, including pottery, statues, and jewelry. The Municipal Ethnographic Museum showcases traditional costumes, crafts, and household items from the Epirus region, providing a fascinating insight into local culture and history.

For foodies, Ioannina is a paradise, boasting a rich culinary tradition that draws on local ingredients and traditional recipes. The city is famous for its cheese, especially the creamy feta cheese known as “Dodoni,” which is produced in the nearby region of Dodona. Visitors can sample a wide range of local specialties, from hearty meat dishes to delicious pastries and sweets, at the city’s numerous tavernas and restaurants.

The city’s Byzantine Museum is housed in a building rebuilt on the ruins of the seraglio of Ali Pasha in Its Kale, which was destroyed by fire in 1870. The north-western citadel of the fortress is dominated by the Aslan Pasha Mosque. Built in 1618, it now houses the Municipal Ethnographic Museum and its three departments, Greek, Ottoman Muslim, and Jewish.

In conclusion, Ioannina is a destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all types. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nature, there is something to suit your interests in this charming city. So why not plan with Mideast Travel a visit to Ioannina on your next trip to Greece?