Stone bridges found throughout the Greek countryside are unique masterpieces of the stonemasons of yore.
The local craftsmen use only materials provided by nature and guided by their instinct, aesthetics and common sense. They have built bridges that are vastly different than those of engineers.
Although many of the bridges have been replaced by steel constructions, a number of stone bridges still dot the Greek countryside.
These bridges are small masterpieces and no two are alike. The stonemasons who built them were simple folk, without any formal education in their craft. They managed instinctively to solve technical problems and construct works of art, with an ingrained talent for engineering and architecture.
Their bridges and a wealth of other stone structures, were built to serve everyday needs. The bridges blend exquisitely with natural landscapes and give off a sense of harmony.
Stonemasons of the past, whose works serve as a lasting tribute to their craft, traditionally came from specific parts of mainland Greece, and to a lesser degree from the islands.
The most renowned stonemason villages were located around Mt. Grammos and Sarantaporos River, Tzoumerka, western Macedonia, Arcadia, Epirus and Thrace.
(source: ana-mpa)
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