The prefectural capital of Epirus, Preveza, stands at the entrance to the Amvrakian Gulf very near the site of Ancient Nikopolis, It was founded by Pvrrhus around 290 B.C. and much later was occupied by the Venetians, the French and the Turks before becoming part of the modern Greek state.
Today this picturesque little port with its Venetian castle, smattering of neoclassical buildings and scenic surroundings is a good base for exploring the district. One can also combine sophisticated entertainment with natural pleasure at its many fine beaches (Kiani Akti, Alonaki, Agii Apostoli, Panickratoras, Kalamitsi, Mitikas and Monolithi).
Nikopolis (8 km north of Preveza) was founded by the Roman emperor Augustus in the first century B.C, to commemorate his victory over Antony and Cleopatra in the battle of Actium (31 B.C.). The city contained imposing buildings, such as the Theatre, Odeon, Baths, Nymphaion, Great Walls, Stadium Gymnasium and Aqueduct.
During the Early Christian era (4th century) six large basilicas were erected, of which the one with the best preserved mosaics is the Dournetios.
The site has an excellent museum with finds from the city. The Odeon. restored to good condition, is used for drama performances and other cultural events during the summer months (Nikopolis).
The Necromanteion of Ephyra (Oracle of the Dead)
The ruins of this famous oracle of the dead lie 53 kilometres from Preveza on the site of ancient Ephyra near the village of Messopotamo. A sacred place in the valley of the Acheron river, its aura of mystery was enhanced in antiquity by the conviction that it was one of the entrances to Hades. It is not known when the worship of Persephone and Hades first took root here, but the ancients generally believed that deep openings into the earth, caves and gorges all led to the Underworld. They also believed that a person's soul was immortal after its freedom from the body and that a mortal's contact with the dead with a view to predicting the future demanded special preliminaries (sacrifices, a particular diet, etc.). Excavations here have brought to light a labyrinthine building with corridors, chambers, colonnades and a sanctuary.
Not far from the Oracle one can see the walls and other ruins belonging to ancient Ephyra.
The Amvrakian wetlands
The double delta of the Louros and Arahthos rivers in the Amvrakjan Gulf provides the conditions for the formation of a rare ecosystem of water -and saltloving vegetation as well as a great diversity of birds and animals (herons, dolphins. sea turtles etc. many of which arc endangered. The area is protected under the RAMSAR international convention.
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