ANOTHER MAGICAL PLACE IN GREECE

A few years ago, I found myself in a fabulous place that I had wanted to go to for a long time.

This place is the unique Monemvasia.

LITTLE BIT OF GLORIOUS HISTORY

The imposing rock is joined to the mainland by a narrow strip of land and a bridge 130 m long. From this fact it got its name Monemvasia (only entrance). The rock is about 1500 m long and 600 m wide, while its height reaches 200 m.

Monemvasia was first inhabited 8,000 years ago and is the only early Helladic settlement in the wider region.

In 1204 AD the Franks overthrew the Byzantine state, the Peloponnese put up a strong resistance and even more so Monemvasia, which remained impregnable for more than 40 years! In 1463 it was the last Byzantine foundation of the Peloponnese to pass under foreign rule, while οn 23 July 1821 Monemvasia was the first castle in the Peloponnese to be liberated by the Greek revolutionary forces; this filled the Greek fighters with much needed optimism and confidence.

STONE AND SEA AND SUN

I spent a wonderful three days that August in this fairytale castle town. It is very difficult to describe how this place leaves you with a feeling of beauty as soon as you pass through the gate. I hope the photos help in that direction.

WHAT TO DO

If you ever find yourself on this rock, I would recommend:

• Make sure to take the short hike to the top, to admire the magnificent architecture from above.

• Take the short walk to the other side of the walls until you reach the lighthouse. The lighthouse of Monemvasia, built in 1896, is 7 metres high. In addition to the lighthouse, it also has a museum open to the public, where visitors can learn about the history of lighthouses in Greece.

• Visit the house where the great Greek poet Yannis Ritsos lived.

• To walk within the walls at all hours of the day.

• Ask a local fisherman to give you a night boat ride in front of the rock.

• Find the small exit from the walls to the sea and take a dip in the icy waters.

DETOUR TO FJORD

It is worth mentioning that in just 30 minutes drive you can find yourself in the “fjord of Greece” called Limin Ieraka. It is a rather strange place for my country, but really simple and beautiful.

Tip: Sit at Rementzo and try the grilled sardines. I still remember the taste in my mouth as I write these lines.