MONEMVASIA
The historical citadel of Monemvasia – the Kastro – is one of the archaeological and architectural highlights of the Peloponnese. Only 330 km away from Athens International Airport, it is easily accessible by car or bus. The scenic journey lasts between 3 to 4 hours and remains both near and far enough to be of easy access.
The vast majority of its visitors are Greek who wish to experience a peaceful destination in a unique historical setting. Visitors are particularly attracted to the Kastro for its enchanting and romantic side. Monemvasia is surrounded by many hilltop villages, set in a region of natural beauty with olive and fig trees by the Myrtoan Sea offering numerous beaches with crystal clear waters.
The Kastro of Monemvasia is a destination in itself. Monuments and churches are scattered throughout the old town. In the main square of ‘Elkomenos Christos’ an important archaeological collection is housed in the museum, a previous mosque. One can walk through the narrow alleyways, swim and relax by the sea (at the Portello gate; a terraced platform on the outer walls of the fortress itself). Enjoy a late night drink facing the sea, or climb to the Upper Town and visit the ancient ruins and the glorious Byzantine church of Saint Sofia whilst, experiencing first hand, being ‘held captive’ between the endless blue sky and the emerald sea below.
The region of Monemvasia has a lot to offer its visitors.
CULTURE
The Municipality of Monemvasia, similar to other parts of the Peloponnese, boasts a large number of historic monuments that have survived the passage of time.
The unique medieval fortress of Monemvasia and its Archaeological Collection ranges from prehistoric to classical, Byzantine and to the more recent past.
Meanwhile, the folklore museums of Velies and Riechia provide a wealth of information about the region’s rural daily life and culture. Another important aspect of the region’s history is the deep routed Christian tradition which is represented in dozens of churches and monasteries that are a witness not only to the local population’s spiritual life, but also to the skills of their master craftsmen and artists, who built and adorned these houses of worship. Summer in Monemvasia embraces a rich traditional cultural life in the form of concerts, theatrical performances and art exhibitions.
HIKING / CLIMBING
It is no exaggeration to claim that the Monemvasia region is a hiker’s paradise. There are dozens of trails combining dazzling mountain scenery and sea views amongst the generous flora and fauna. Typically, the hikes follow the old donkey trails that were once the only means of travelling from one village to another.
Geology buffs will enjoy exploring the Kastania Cave. Also not to be missed is the pre-historic Petrified Forest near Neapoli, at the very foot of the peninsula.
Only in recent years did Greek climbers discover the rock climbing coastal area of Kyparissi which, has now become an international destination for enthusiasts of the sport. The area offers a variety of cliffs with superb views over the Aegean Sea, as far as the islands of Hydra and Spetses.
