Polyneri (Koutsi)

Fortified settlement 4th – 2nd century. B.C., Byzantine Period The fortified settlement in Kouti during the old name, today Polyneri Svoton, is located on the eastern slope of Mount Athos at an altitude of 288 meters, in a natural fortification position that controls the Plataria Plain, with visibility up to the sea Tained. ). Polyneri today represents the unique ancient fortified settlement that is inhabited and expands into the walls of the fortress. There is no historical data or sources that inform us about the historical evolution of the fortified settlement over the centuries. Its beginning is rather defined in the 4th century. BC, when most settlements of Thesprotia are created, he survives during Hellenistic times and ruined together with the rest of the continental cities in 167 BC. From the Romans, after Perseus’s defeat in Pydna. At this time, or later in the northwest corner of the ancient settlement, a small castle of triangular floor plan is manufactured, which seems to be used during Byzantine times. In the newer years, the settlement extends outside the walls. Due to exactly this continuous timeless habitation, with the exception of fortification, minimum residues of ancient times have been preserved within the settlement and are mostly limited to simple foundation cars on the natural rock. “The settlement has an area of ​​55, approximately acres and is surrounded by a strong polygonal wall in the East, in part of the Western and the canal points of its northern side. The main gateway of the settlement is located to the west and is protected by a strong view of the wall. ” The settlement was further developed according to Byzantine and Modern times. It is located 22 km south of Igoumenitsa via EO. Igoumenitsa – Preveza and about 3 km after Plataria The visitor turns right to reach out to modern settlement and archaeological site. It is an outdoor area, constantly open.