Preveza

Preveza is a charming coastal town in northwestern Greece, situated in the region of Epirus, where the Ionian Sea meets the Ambracian Gulf. Known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and relaxed atmosphere, Preveza offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an appealing destination for both tourists and locals.

Historical Background

Preveza’s history is deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations, Byzantine rule, and Ottoman influence. The nearby ancient city of Nikopolis, founded by Emperor Augustus in 31 BCE to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Actium, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. The ruins of Nikopolis, including a theatre, Roman baths, and an aqueduct, attract history enthusiasts.

Due to its strategic location, Preveza has been a contested area throughout its history. It has changed hands between various powers, including the Venetians, Ottomans, and Greeks. It was officially incorporated into modern Greece after the Balkan Wars in 1912.

Key Elements of Preveza’s Gastronomy

1. Seafood and Fish Preveza is famous for its abundant seafood, thanks to its proximity to both the Ionian Sea and the Ambracian Gulf, a protected ecosystem.
   • Shrimp from Ambracian Gulf: The small, sweet Preveza shrimp (γαρίδες Πρέβεζας) are a local delicacy, often served grilled or in a tomato-based sauce with feta cheese.
   • Eel (χέλι): Smoked or grilled eel from the gulf is another prized product.
   • Anchovies and sardines: These small fish are a staple, often marinated in olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
   • Savoro Fish: Similar to the Lefkada version, fish is fried and preserved in a vinegar and rosemary sauce.
   • Octopus: Typically grilled or stewed in wine, a popular meze.
2. Meat and Dairy While seafood dominates, the inland regions of Preveza are known for:
   • Goat and lamb: Slow-roasted or cooked in tomato-based stews.
   • Kokoretsi: A traditional dish made from lamb intestines, seasoned and roasted on a spit.
   • Feta cheese: A common ingredient in many dishes, often produced locally.
3. Vegetables and Legumes Fresh, seasonal vegetables and legumes play a significant role in Preveza’s diet:
   • Giant beans (Gigantes): Often baked in a tomato sauce with herbs.
   • Wild greens (Horta): Boiled and drizzled with lemon and olive oil.
   • Stuffed vegetables (Gemista): Peppers, tomatoes, and zucchini filled with rice and herbs.
4. Pies (Pites) Epirus, the region where Preveza is located, is renowned for its savoury pies, often made with homemade phyllo dough.
   • Spanakopita: Spinach and feta pie.
   • Prasopita: Leek pie.
   • Kotopita: Chicken pie with a creamy bechamel sauce.
5. Olive Oil and Olives Olive oil is a cornerstone of Preveza’s cuisine and is used generously in cooking and salads. Local olives, especially the small black variety, are often cured and served as appetisers.
6. Wine and Spirits Preveza has a growing wine scene, with Indigenous grape varieties producing excellent wines:
   • Debina: A white wine grape grown in Epirus, often used to make sparkling wines.
   • Vlahiko and Bekari: Red grape varieties producing light, fruity wines.
   • Tsipouro: A strong distilled spirit made from grape pomace, often enjoyed with meze.
7. Desserts Preveza’s desserts reflect traditional Greek sweets with a regional twist:
   • Baklava: Layers of phyllo dough with nuts and honey syrup.
   • Galaktoboureko: A custard pie soaked in syrup.
   • Loukoumades: Deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and cinnamon.
   • Spoon sweets (Glyka tou Koutaliou): Preserved fruits like quince or orange, served with Greek yoghurt.

Unique Dishes of Preveza

Mpetikia: Fried dough balls filled with cheese, often served as a snack or meze.sea.

Avgotaracho (Bottarga) is cured fish roe from grey mullet, a local delicacy often grated over pasta or eaten with bread and butter.

Bourdeto: A spicy fish stew with tomato sauce and red pepper, influenced by Corfu.

Accessibility

Preveza is easily accessible by road, and the nearby Aktion National Airport (also known as Preveza Airport) connects the town to major cities in Greece and Europe. The Aktio-Preveza Undersea Tunnel links Preveza to the nearby region of Aetolia-Acarnania, making travel convenient.

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Preveza offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil yet enriching experience in Greece.