Ioannina (regional unit)

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Ioannina Regional Unit is in northwestern Greece and is part of the Epirus region. Its capital is the city of Ioannina. It is the largest regional unit in Epirus and one of the largest in Greece, with about 161,000 residents (2021).

Geography and nature
The area is mostly mountainous, dominated by the Pindus range. Major subranges, from north to south, include Gramos, Smolikas (the highest point at 2,637 meters), Tymfi, Lygkos, Lakmos and Athamanika. The Xerovouni mountains lie in the south and Tomaros in the southwest. Lake Pamvotida is Epirus’ largest lake. Several important rivers have their sources here, including Aoös, Arachthos and Acheron.

Size, population and borders
The regional unit covers about 4,990 square kilometers and has a population of 160,773 (2021). It borders Albania to the north and the Greek regional units of Kastoria, Grevena, Trikala, Arta, Preveza and Thesprotia.

Administration and history
Ioannina is divided into eight municipalities. It became a prefecture in 1915 and, with the 2011 Kallikratis reform, the present regional unit of Ioannina was created from the former Ioannina prefecture, with municipalities reorganized accordingly. Provinces no longer have legal status.

Attractions and sports
Beyond the city of Ioannina, the region has various attractions. The area is not mainly known as an island tourist destination. The region has a major football club, PAS Giannina, along with several smaller teams.

Practical details
Time zone: EET (UTC+2) and EEST (UTC+3 in summer). Postal codes start with 44x xx or 45x xx. Area code: 265x0. Vehicle registration: IN.