Monemvasia

It is located in the eastern Peloponnese, in the province Limiras of Epidaurus, in the prefecture of Laconia.

This traditional village and historic place in Greece is classified by the Greek Ministry of environment as a 'Place of Special natural beauty”and is integrated in the Natura 2000 with the code GR2540001.

It also is the birthplace of the Greek poet Yannis Richos.

The main characteristic of the area is the beautiful, majestic scenery of the rock of Monemvasia, which has very old and rich history. This is reflected on the preservable buildings and on the medieval castle. Due to its geographical position in the Mediterranean Sea, Monemvassia was a target for pirates but also for numerous conquerors such as Franks, Venetians and Ottomans.

You can approach the rock of Monemvasia, either by car or on foot by crossing the bridge that leads to the main gate. From there you can walk around the "Lower City" at the cobblestone streets. You can see the house of the poet John Ritsos and visit the square with the cannon and the Church of Christ. You can also visit the area below the walls “Portelo”, located on the sea. There are also the Museum and the church of Virgin Mary Chrisafitissa. You will find very nice little shops, from where you can buy local souvenirs and you can enjoy a drink or meal at local cafes and restaurants.

Continue your walk towards the “Upper City”. There you will find yourself in an area with a wonderful view across the Myrtoo Sea. Several buildings are abandoned, however the church of Agia Sophia is still kept in a perfect condition. It is a miniature of the authentic church located in Istanbul. Some houses also have been restored and are inhabited mainly during the summer time.

If you visit Monemvasia during summer, it is a great opportunity to enjoy swimming at one of the beautiful beaches of local area.
In the castle you may go to Kakavos, at the left of the bridge with a view to the castle, but also to Kourkoula and Portelo below the walls.
If you have a car or motorbike you can go for swimming at the beaches of Pori, Kastraki , Ambelakia and Agios Fokas.

Excursions near by

Seize the opportunity to visit some really interesting destinations, situated at the local area such as:

Elafonissos

A small island with beautiful sea for swimming. It is also a protected area according to NATURA 2000 program with code GR2540002. You can go to Elafonissos by ferryboat from Neapolis, which is only 40 minutes by car from Monemvassia.

Fjord Gerakas

This is the only fjord in Greece. It is a natural harbor with gorgeous natural beauty.

Kiparissi.

It is a very picturesque seaside village with beautiful landscape where you can enjoy your walk.

Vatika

Seaside village with great geological interest as the ground of this place hides real treasures associated with the geological development of the earth.  That is why it attracts the interest of international scientific community. It is worth noting the presence of petrified logs, which are estimated to be 46 million years of age.

Don’ t forget the local products

 

Before leaving Monemvasia, do not forget to try or buy the local wine of Monemvasia, olive oil and local sweets such as the Rafiolia, Flutes, Samousa, Diples, Melitinia, Kourabiedes and Amigdalota.

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Monemvasia-Rock_and_Old_Town.jpg
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Monemvasia_-_Rock_and_Old_Town.jpg
Author Ingo Mehling

Monemvasia-Bay_of_Monemvasia.jpg
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Monemvasia_-_Bay_of_Monemvasia.jpg
Author Ingo Mehling

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Monemvasia_Ansicht.jpg
photographer: Joachim Hensel-Losch, edited by ulrichstill

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Author Joachim Hensel-Losch Original uploader was Idler at de.wikipedia