The Arda is a tributary of Evros river - the largest one. Its springs are located up the mountains of the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria, and most of it crosses the neighboring country. It flows eastward and enters the Greek territory from the northern part of Orestiada. Αfter bathing at the spot where the rivers Ardas, Evros and Tonsus meet, Orestes is said to have been cleansed of the crime of matricide, for which he had been pursued by the Furies.
With dense forests of alders, willows, poplars, hornbeams, field elms, plane trees, and various other species of plants growing along its banks, the Arda is proved to be an important habitat of the area with rich flora. The fauna of Arda is particularly impressive, with various species (predators, smaller birds, reptiles, mammals, and fish) finding shelter on its banks and in its waters.
Over the years, large land improvement and irrigation projects have been constructed to supply the surrounding areas with water and avoid flooding.
Ardas Festival takes place in the area every year.
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