The Argassi Bridge was built during the English rule, and a memorial plaque fixed above the central arch of the bridge dates back to 1805. It is said that the road leading to the bridge started from the church of St Spiridon of Sgournes and ended in Vardiola in Venice. The bridge used to be part of the main road along the coast of Zakynthos, but today barely half of it is still standing on the shore, while the other half is drowned in the sea. This is due to severe erosion caused mainly by sea water and strong winds.

The remains of the Venetian bridge, which now stand about 10 m from the sea shore, have become a favourite photographic spot and a symbol of the seaside resort of Argassi and its long, sandy beach. The old bridge has three arches and a type of limestone called tufa was used for its construction.

The locals also add a legend to the history of the old bridge: A noble and beautiful girl named Nicoletta, born in Venice, came to Zakynthos to visit her uncle, who had settled on the island years ago and made a fortune as a landowner and exporter of olive oil. During her stay on Zante, Nicoletta met a young fisherman, Theodore, a handsome and strong young man who loved the sea and would set out every evening with his father to fish. Nicoletta and Theodor fell in love and enjoyed their days together, swimming in the clear sea and going out on the boat. However, the sea here can also be very dangerous and during one of the night storms, when the sea was roaring and foaming, Theodor's boat sank and there was no sign of the fisherman. Nicoletta was devastated, and every night she would go to the Argassi rock and cry. She called for Theodore because she hadn't had time to say goodbye to him. One evening, as the sun was setting and the full moon was rising, she heard the answer from the sea: "Love, you will never be alone, I will always be with you!" It is said that the local sea is still a messenger of love and lovers. In the evening, when the sun is setting and the sky is full, one should stand in the middle of the bridge and lovingly call out to whomever else one wants to ask or listen to. And the sea will bring him the answer.

More touristic destinations of Zakynthos

Most favourite sights of Zakynthos: Monastery of Anafonitria, Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa, Church of Saint Dionysius, Church of Saint Nicholas (Zante), Skinari Windmill, Ruins of Bochali Castle

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.