Agrinio is a mainland city in the Aetolia-Acarnania region of western Greece. An important economic centre, it was once home to several large tobacco companies and is known today for its vast olive production. The low-rise city is home to bustling central squares, museums, lakes, gorges and ancient archaeological sites.
Ambling through the streets of Agrinio, visitors will be captivated by neo-classical tobacco buildings and warehouses which represent the city’s “Golden Age of Tobacco”. Republic Square is a wonderful place to stop for coffee or a snack and to admire the beautiful architecture. Visitors seeking to learn about local history can venture to The Folklore Museum, which exhibits artefacts dating from 1821 to 1920. The Archaeological Museum ventures back even further, exploring ruins and findings from the Prehistoric to Roman periods in this area of Greece. To visit one of the main archaeological sites in the area, travellers must journey 12 kilometres north-west of Agrinio to Stratos. The fortified town was once the capital of Acarnania. There are preserved ruins of a large amphitheatre and the incomplete Temple of Zeus Stratios to explore.
The easiest way to reach Agrinio is via car. Two of the main Greek National Roads, the 5/E55 and 38/E952 pass through the city. There is also a local airport near the city. Navigating the city centre is easy on foot, with many attractions close to each other. Buses operate to the perimeter of Republic Square for cafes, restaurants, museums and theatres.
The city of Agrinio dates to around 1600-1100 BC. Built near the River Achelous, it was claimed by both states of Aetolia and Acarnania. In the 19th century and early 20th centuries, excavations revealed the ancient city of Agrinion. After the Second World War, the economy received a boost as two major hydraulic dams were to be constructed in the area. However, the main source of income for Agrinio was the tobacco and olive industries. Today, visitors enjoy its traditional Greek atmosphere, rich history and venturing to lakes and archaeological sites located on Agrinio’s doorstep.