Arkadiko


Arkadiko, also Arkadikon, is a semi-mountainous village in the municipality of Epidavros in Argolis, Greece. It is located on the old national road Greek National Road 70 between Nafplio and Lygourio, on the southwestern foothills of Mount. As of the 2021 census, it has a population of 177. The community has an area of 18.911 km2.
The local community consists of the main village of Arkadiko and the hamlet of Agios Ioannis, located about 1.5 km to the west. The village's former names were Prountzaika or Broutzaika, an Arvanitic name indicating it was founded by Albanians who migrated to the area in the Middle Ages.
The area is rich in archaeological sights dating from the Mycenaean era to the Byzantine period.

Sights

Acropolis of Kazarma

On a hill about 300 m north of the village are the ruins of a 4th-century BC fortification, known as the. Situated on the ancient road from Argos to Epidaurus, it was likely built by the Argives on the border of their territory. The stone walls, 2.5 m wide and preserved to a height of 5.2 m, include four round towers. The structure was rebuilt during the Byzantine era.

Mycenaean Bridges

The area contains several Mycenaean bridges. One, known as the Arkadiko Bridge or Kazarma Bridge, is located very close to the village and is considered the oldest preserved bridge in Europe. It was built in the Mycenaean period as part of a road network. Another well-preserved Mycenaean bridge is located 160 m west of Agios Ioannis, from which a hiking trail leads to a third bridge about 1 km further west.

Kazarma tholos tomb

Other Sights

  • The is located about 1 km northwest of Arkadiko.
  • The Byzantine church of Agia Marina is located about 500 m north of the Kazarma bridge, near the ruins of a watermill.

    Population

The population of Arkadiko saw a general increase over the 20th century, peaking in 2001, but has since declined.
Census YearPopulation
1991308
2001337
2011241
2021177