Monodendri is one of the well known Zagoria and belongs to the City of Central Zagoria. Built at an altitude of 1060 meters, just 39 km from the city of Ioannina offers spectacular views of the slopes and Tymfi Astraka. Its name probably is from a big tree that existed in the village until 1840. Until 1753 it was a community with three quarters (Vitsa, Upper Mahala, St. George) that later formed the present village.
Monodendri located in a prominent position because you have easy access to the Vikos Gorge and the stone towers of beech to the left of the village, create a landscape of rare beauty and fabulous. Monodendri had great economic and commercial peak in the 18th and 19th century and erected many churches, schools and houses of their benefactors.
The village is the birthplace of national benefactors of our country and George Rizari Manthou. The brothers were Rizari merchants based in Russia and gave a lot of money in the liberation struggle of our country and gave their property for the establishment and operation of Rizarios Church School. With money from the bequest of brothers Rizari currently operates handicraft school where you can view or purchase beautiful textiles and embroidery. Monodendri is Rizario and Exhibition Centre which hosts significant international exhibitions such as Manu, Bresson, Boissonas and others. The brothers Rizari were merchants based in Russia and gave a lot of money in the liberation struggle of our country and gave their property for the establishment and operation of Rizarios Church School. With money from the bequest of brothers Rizari currently operates handicraft school where you can view or purchase beautiful textiles and embroidery. At Monodendri is the Rizario and Exhibition Centre which hosts significant international exhibitions such as Manu, Bresson, Boissonas and others. Today the house of brothers Rizari housed the elementary school with the busts of benefactors to look to the ridges of Tymfi.
Features stone streets, stone houses and mansions will impress you with the famous local architecture and will revive past times. The whole village is evenly built with gray stone. Monodendri is one of the most beautiful villages of Zagoria with stunning views and attracts many visitors every year. It is one of the first and oldest villages of Zagoria developed tourist and now have too many tasteful and well hostels and hotels offer a high level of service for a comfortable and pleasant stay.
In the taverns and restaurants Monodendri you can find the local traditional dishes and of course the famous pies.
From the start Monodendri path that leads you through the Vikos Gorge and the sources of Voidomatis, after an enjoyable trip. The village is a starting point for the Vikos Gorge but also many hiking and walking trails.
Monodendri deservedly claim a place one of the most beautiful villages of Zagoria and not unjustly, as it offers a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majestic views and breathtaking!