Tsepelovo
Tsepelovo, built at an altitude of over 1,000 meters on the Kazarma peak of Mount Tymfi, is the most populous yet remote of the Zagori villages, located 51 km north of Ioannina. It is known for its three-day festival every August, which draws visitors from the surrounding Zagori villages, as well as for its rich history, unique architecture, and notable landmarks. A significant part of its history is tied to the Greek Revolution, as is all of Epirus.
The cobbled streets, imposing mansions, and traditional stone-built architecture blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The numerous stone bridges that surround the village, with their elaborate construction, testify the love and care of the inhabitants for their land.
In Tsepelovo, visitors will find a honey products shop, one offering handmade jewelry and gifts and a small grocery store. There are also three tavernas and five cafes and other eateries (cafés, tsipouradika, etc.), all within a 1 to 5 minute walk from PANACEA RESORT. However, there is no ATM or pharmacy in the village.
Village History
Tsepelovo has a long history, with roots that reach back to the late Middle Ages. It is believed to have been founded in the 14th century through the merging of small settlements in the area. By 1700, the village already had a school, likely due to its economic prosperity during the 18th century, when it served as a hub for timber production and distribution.
The village holds a significant cultural heritage. The renowned scholar and teacher of the Greek Enlightenment, Athanasios Psalidas, taught at the local school, which had been operating since 1700. There, alongside the poet Ioannis Vilaras, they guided the early phase of the Greek Revolution of 1821. Vilaras's grave is located in the courtyard of the Tsofleio Pharmacy.
In Tsepelovo, Neophytos Doukas envisioned founding an advanced educational institution at the Monastery of Saint John Rogovou, although this plan was ultimately abandoned with the onset of the 1821 Revolution. The village is also the birthplace of Konstantinos Rados, who inspired the founding of the Filiki Eteria, a secret society that played a crucial role in the Greek War of Independence.
Sightseeing
One unique attraction in Tsepelovo is the Tsouflio Pharmacy, built in 1874. Originally, it functioned as a pharmacy, as noted on its exterior sign, later served as a post office, and now operates as a gallery showcasing works by the artist Petros Papavasileiou. This well-preserved stone building, with its distinctive blue windows, stands next to the Church of Saint Nicholas. It was named in honor of benefactor Anastasios Tsouflis, who amassed significant wealth in Moldova during the 19th century. Other noteworthy spots include the Art Gallery, the house of Vasilis Tsitsanis' mother, and the Ioannidis family house-museum, each offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical richness of the area.
You can visit some of the stone bridges, such as the Paliogefyro, the bridge of Kleidonia, the bridge of Kovatsaina, as well as the bridges of Konomos and Hatzio.
Of particular interest is the Rogovou Monastery, located 2 kilometers outside the village, perched on a slope of the gorge locally known as "Vikaki".
Activities
Every end of July, Tsepelovo hosts the popular Zagori Mountain Running event, a mountain race with both the starting and finishing points in the village. The race features various courses, including the 10 km Entry Race, the 21 km Half Marathon, the 44 km Marathon+, and the 80 km TeRa. The residents of Tsepelovo are actively involved, volunteering to clean the trails, supply food to the athletes, offer hospitality, and illuminate the historic Tsepelovo Staircase, which marks the final stretch before the athletes reach the finish line.
How to Get to Tsepelovo
The village is located 45 km from Ioannina’s King Pyrros Airport, 490 km from Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, and 300 km from Thessaloniki’s Macedonia Airport.
From Athens:
Via the Olympia Highway, take the turnoff to the Ioannina Ring Road, then to the Kozani – Ioannina National Road, and turn onto the Asfaka – Vrysochori Provincial Road.
Alternatively, you can follow the Athens – Thessaloniki National Road to Evzoni, exit towards Kalambaka, follow the Trikala – Ioannina National Road, and turn onto the Asfaka – Vrysochori Provincial Road.
From Thessaloniki:
Via the Egnatia Highway, take the exit towards Zagori, then take the Trikala – Ioannina National Road and turn onto the Asfaka – Vrysochori Provincial Road.
