Mythical Peloponnese

If there is one area in the entire country that deserves to be known as the birthplace of Greek Civilisation, that is Peloponnese. The southernmost part of mainland Greece features not one, but countless «firsts» for Greece and its superbly rich history. 

In close proximity to Athens lies Corinth, the ancient city-state which today plays an important part in Greece’s maritime prowess. The reason can be found in the impressive Corinth Canal, built in 1881 along the historic Isthmus of Corinth, connecting the Corinthian Gulf to the Saronic Gulf. Indeed, parts of the ancient ship stone passage, the «Diolkos» can be found next to the dramatic cliffs that cut journey times for passenger and freight ships by a significant margin. But Corinth has far more besides: the Ancient City of Corinth, destroyed during the 19th century by a huge earthquake and, towering above it, the Acropolis of Corinth or Acrocorinth.

But Corinth, with its rich history and strategic location, is only the start of our story. Moving further south, lie the ruins of the Bronze Age settlement of Mycenae. Nearly 4000 years ago, this fortified city is considered to be one of the most influential centres of the Greek Civilisation. Within the city the visitor can find the «tholos», possibly the most famous of Mycenaean sites, also known as the Treasury of Agamemnon. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is certainly a sight to behold and is guaranteed to pique the visitors interest, but another important site is not very far away. 

Nemea, the city of the second most famous ancient games (after, of course, Olympia), features prominently in Greek mythology as Hercules performed his first of seven great labours by slaying the feared Nemean Lion – greatly exaggerated though it may seem, as Greece has not seen one of the magnificent big cats in centuries. Nevertheless, the Stadion of the Nemean Games is close by as is the Temple of Nemean Zeus, dating back to the 4th century BC. The city is also famous for its eponymous wines, dating all the way to the antiquity.

Just a short drive away from Nemea, a site that is considered one of the most important cultural centres of Ancient Greece. The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, the most advanced open-air theatre of its kind with its superb acoustics and beautiful structure.

The Asclepeion, the sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine is part of this wide archaeological site, where the sick used to seek refuge to find cures for their ailments. It is said they used to sleep at the site, when Asclepius would visit them in their dreams and suggest the treatment to their illness. Thankfully, modern medicine has advanced significantly since, but you have to admire what is probably one of the earliest surviving specimens of a hospital!

As a fitting end to our day-long story, the final chapter takes place in the beautiful town of Nafplion. The first capital city of Modern Greece features wonderful scenery, and picturesque neo-classical architecture, largely unchanged and utterly enchanting. Nafplion is best explored by foot through the paved narrow streets which feature vibrant cafes and restaurants alongside interesting museums (a visit to the rich Archaeological Museum of Nafplion is a must) and theatres.

However, as in every city in the world, the visitor has only to look up to find a magnificent view: the Palamidi Castle or Acronauplia, towering over the city at almost 220 meters and built by the Venetians. Palamidi requires great determination and physical strength to climb the not-quite-999 steps to the top (the actual number is 913). Just kidding. Our story features a deus ex machina, taking you all the way to the top! Any way you choose to ascend this imposing castle, one thing is for sure: the view from the top is more than rewarding.

Info

1. Archaeological Area of Ancient Corinth

Opening Hours: 8:00 – sunset
Admission Fee: 8 Euros (Reduced Fee applicable for special categories)

2. Acrocorinth

Opening Hours: 8:30 – 16:00
Admission Fee: Free

3. Mycenae

Opening Hours: 8:00 – sunset
Admission Fee: 12 Euros (Reduced Fee applicable for special categories) – Valid for the Archaeological Area, the Museum and the Treasury of Agamemnon.

4. Epidaurus

Opening Hours: 8:00 – sunset
Admission Fee: 12 Euros (Reduced Fee applicable for special categories) – Valid for the Archaeological Area, the Theatre and the Museum.

5. Palamidi Castle, Nafplion

Opening Hours: 8:00 – sunset
Admission Fee: 8 Euros (Reduced Fee applicable for special categories)

Suggestion: 

• While in Nemea, a wine tasting tour might be ideal for connoisseurs, as a little taste of what is known as the «Vineyard of the Gods». 
• In Epidaurus, the annual Festival of Athens and Epidaurus presents modern interpretations of ancient tragedies or comedies, so you can combine your story with an ancient one! More information can be found at greekfestival.gr.