Papigo

Papigo, also spelled Papigo or Papigko, is a traditional settlement in the Zagori region of Epirus, northwestern Greece. It comprises two nearby villages, Megalo Papigo (Great Papigo) and Mikro Papigo (Little Papigo), located in the Pindus mountains near Mount Tymfi. The area sits at roughly 1,000 meters above sea level and lies within the Vikos–Aoös National Park, close to the Voidomatis river and the Vikos Gorge.

The villages are renowned for their well-preserved stone architecture. Traditional Zagori houses, built of local stone with wooden balconies and slate roofs, line narrow, winding lanes. Many mansions date from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the prosperity of the merchant families who once dominated the area. The settlement form, including arches and courtyards, contributes to the region’s recognizable architectural identity. Zagori is also noted for its network of stone bridges connecting villages.

Papigo serves as a popular base for outdoor activities and cultural tourism. Visitors explore the surrounding trails that lead into Mount Tymfi and along the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. A local highlight is the Dragon Lake (Drakolimni) on Tymfi, linked to regional legends. The area offers guesthouses, tavernas, and small museums that showcase traditional life and local craftsmanship.

Overall, Papigo represents a well-preserved example of Zagori’s rural heritage, combining historical architecture with access to dramatic mountain scenery and protected natural landscapes.