The Vourderis Arches in Argassi, Zakynthos, are one of the most characteristic examples of the island’s efforts to secure adequate water supply for the town in the early 19th century. They were constructed during the British period, at a time when local authorities were increasingly aware of the need for infrastructure projects to meet the demands of a growing population. This monumental arched aqueduct originated from the rich springs of “Vrysakia,” in the hills above Argassi, and extended toward the outskirts of Zakynthos Town, using the natural slope of the terrain to channel water.
The name “Vourderis” is attributed either to a master builder or an older toponym, though its exact origin is not fully confirmed. Nevertheless, it became deeply rooted in local memory, as did the legend that Theodoros Kolokotronis once rode his horse across the arches to demonstrate his exceptional riding skills. While this story is not supported by historical records, it reflects the strong cultural presence of the national hero and the symbolic importance of the arches as a landmark.
The aqueduct suffered severe damage from the earthquakes of 1953, as well as later demolitions linked to road construction and land development. Only fragments of its arches and masonry remain today, still revealing traces of its former grandeur and the skilled engineering techniques used in its construction. Today, those who encounter it on the paths toward the slopes of Mount Skopos see more than just ruins. They witness a remnant of the island’s historical continuity, where the need for water, social development, local legends, and everyday life all converge, giving the Vourderis Arches a distinct cultural significance.
