Listed 100 (total found 161) sub titles with search on: Main pages for wider area of: "PELOPONNISOS Region GREECE" .
ACHLADOKAMBOS (Village) ARGOLIS
Achladokampos is an amphitheatrical village with stony houses, 35km
away from Argos. This is where
Argolida and Arcadia
County are linked.
Achladokampos was once the larges among the villages. Now, it still
retains its ‘supremacy’, as there are many well-maintained houses
a large church, a school, a nice square and a building with hot bath.
At the foot of Partheni
Mountain Range were once many wild pear-trees. It is said that Achladokampos
was named after them (Achladi=pear). At least, this is one version. The other
says that the village was named after the olive trees. Specifically, when a Turkish
aga came in view of the plain full of olive trees, he exclaimed ‘Ach! Ladokampe!’
(Ach= exclamation, Ladokampos= plain with olive trees).
On the whole, Achladokampos is a village based on cattle raising.
The locals still maintain old customs and they are ready to enjoy themselves by
organising feasts on Trinity Sunday and Pentecost.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
AGIA IRINI (Village) MYSTRAS
Tel: +30 27310 98204
AGIOS IOANNIS (Village) MYSTRAS
Tel: +30 27310 21719
AGIOS NIKOLAOS (Village) ALEA
Agios Nikolaos is situated upon the high mountainside of Mountain
Farmakas.
The village’s characteristics are the same as Alea
and Exochi. They have exactly
the same climate, with harsh winters and cool summers.
The most impressive spot of Agios Nikolaos are the ruins of the houses
that the Germans had destroyed during the Second World War. They still stand proud
and firm, as if they expect to be reconstructed.
It is a pleasant small village with white houses among gigantic oaks
and cedar trees.
(Text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
AGIOS STEFANOS (Settlement) LYRKIA
Agios Stephanos is a village situated between Argos
and Karia. It is an isolated
built-up area that once belonged to Fregaina
commune.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
ALEA (Village) ARGOLIS
Alea is a beautiful and amphitheatrical village, 74km from Argos.
The locals have dried up the village’s lake, so that its fertile soil offers
crops much earlier. They also cultivate lentils, chickpeas, beans, maize, potatoes,
tomatoes, other produce, grain, barley and other cereals. There are many apple,
walnut and almond trees.
As most Argolida
villages, Alea is constantly developing. It is a village with traditional renovated
houses, new roads and newly built buildings. The church of the Virgin Mary is
the village’s main church and locals believe that it dates back to the 13th
century. In general, the picturesque narrow streets and the traditional houses
bolster up the beauty of the village.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
ALKYONIDES (Island complex) CORINTHIA
Off Cape Olmia lie four islets - Zoodochos
Pigi, Daskalio, Glaronisi
and Prasonisi- known collectively as the Alcyonides or the Kalanisa.
The remains of ancient permanent or semi-permanent settlements have
come to light on the islets: Daskalio
has yielded the sherds of Corinthian pottery and traces of a polygonal wall, while
preChristian sherds and more traces of buildings have been discovered on Zoodochos
Pigi.
ANDRITSA (Village) LERNA
Following the rising road that leads to the village, it is 28 km away
from Argos.
The few locals that still live in the village deal mostly with cultivation
- olive trees, produce and grains - and cattle raising. They try to keep unquenchable
their faith to historical continuity. Andritsa contains two churches; the church
of St. Vlassis at the top of a hill and the Byzantine chapel of St. Demetrios.
Andritsa is a village where excavations have brought into light a
number of relics that belonged to the ancient and medieval times. Archeologists
have found funeral gifts and coins, as well as evidence of ancient water tank.
Finally, from Andritsa visitors may scan the Turkish road of Agogiostrata
at the southern side of Ktenias
that once led to the village of
Achladokampos.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
ANGELOKASTRO (Village) SOLYGIA
Tel: +30 27410 92250
ANO TRIKALA (Village) TRIKALA KORINTHIAS
Trikala is the main village of Killini,
built on the ruins of the ancient Miseo
and today consists of Kato (Down), Mesaia (Middle) and Ano (Up) Trikala.
It played an important role in the Greek Revolution of 1821.
The text (extract) is cited January 2004 from the Municipality
of Xylokastro pamphlet.
ARGOLIS (Prefecture) PELOPONNISOS
Argolida County is administratively divided into three parts:
a) Argos District,
which is situated in the northwest and possesses the most mountainous regions
as well as the largest part of the Argolic
plain. The full extent of the district is 1062 sp. km and its capital is Argos
according to the 1991 census, the population of Argos
is 22,289, while the overall population of Argos district is 45,342, 42.69 inhabitants
per sp km.
b) Nauplia District.
Its full extent is 731 sp. km and the overall population is 38,929, 53,25 inhabitants
per sq. km. The city of Nauplia
is the capital of Argolida County and its population is 11,897.
c) Ermionida District,
which possesses the southern part of the peninsula. The full extent of Ermionida
District is 421 sp. km and the overall population is 13,365, 31.75 inhabitants
per sp. km. The district’s capital is Kranidi
with 4,400 inhabitants.
During the modern ages, the administrative division of Argolida suffered
continual territorial changes. From 1833 t 1899, Argolida had been part of the
Argolidocorinthia County (with the islands of Spetses,
Hydra and Kithira
intermittently). On 1899 Argolidocorinthia county splits into two counties, that
is Argolida and Corinthia,
while, on 1909 the two counties fuse again. Finally on 1949, Argolida and Corinthia
are permanently separated.
Argos District
contains 6 municipalities (Argos,
Koutsopodi, Nea
Kios, Lerna, Mycenae,
and Lyrkeia) and two communities
(Achladokampos and Alea).
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
ARGOS (Town) ARGOLIS
On the one hand the geographic mark of the city, placed within the
boundaries of Argolis fertile
plain, close to road axes that link North Peloponnese
to Aegean and Mediterranean
Sea under the defensive stand of its high hills (Larissa
279m, Aspida 80m) on the
other, underlie the main reasons that Argos was inhabited continually.
Argos is the most important agricultural, industrial and export center
of the wider Argolis region,
due to systematic cultivation and industries of processing, packaging and distribution
of citrus products as well as those of building material, marble, distillery and
winery, processing and standardization of olive oil, pump manufacturing and package
machinery etc.
Argos, commercial center on the region from ancient times, continues
to be the area’s trade center even today. Its inhabitants surpass the 30.000
people and that makes Argos the most dense of Argolis
Prefecture.
(Text: Nikos Petropoulos)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Municipality
of Argos tourist pamphlet.
ARIA (Settlement) LYRKIA
Mazi or Aria, situated near the site of the ancient
town Inoi, is a beautiful village built on the eastern mountainside of Mount
Artemisio. Due to its altitude it is a popular summer holiday resort. Its
few inhabitants (only 57 in 1991) deal with farming, olive trees, bee-keeping
and cattle-raising. The stony houses keep their traditional style while there
are some modern buildings, which are used as cottages. The vegetation and the
springs make it attractive even to the occasional visitor.
The ancient town
of Inoi was a small town, known just for the victory of the Athenians and
the Argives against the Lacedaemonians (around 460 BC). According to Pausanias,
following the route from Argos
to the west, one would reach Inoi, situated at the foot of Artemisio
Mountain next to the modern village Mazi. There are only a few remains of
the town among which a polygonal wall of a room. On the peak of the mountain there
was a temple devoted to Artemis.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
ARISTODIMIO (Village) ITHOMI
The district consists of two villages: Aristodimio
and Kalovrissi (Voumazi). Aristodimio was named after the mythical king of the
Messenians, Aristodemus.
According to the tradition, he was buried with his golden carriage
in the particular area. The winter headquarters of the first municipality of Ithome
was in Aristodimio. Visitors are able to admire the architecture, the house of
Capetan Krobas, fighter of the Macedonian war, the parish church of Agios Constantinos
(St Constantine), The Byzantine chapel of Agios Nicolaos (St. Nicholas) (10th
century AD) as well as other sights.
The house of Marinos Liberopoulos (Capetan Krobas), he-ro and martyr
of the Macedonian war is in aristodimio. It is a listed monument according to
the Ministry of Culture. After its restoration, it is a real orna - ment not only
for the village but also for the surrounding area.
This text is cited April 2003 from the Municipality
of Ithomi tourist pamphlet.
ARSINOI (Village) ITHOMI
Arsinoi is situated on the west of the Eva Mountain and on the south
of the Ithome Mountain, at
an altitude of 330m, at a distance of 2km from ancient
Messini. It is a small traditional village with several stone houses. Around
746, farmers and stockbreeder inhabited it. Τhe original name of the village is
unknown. Several years later, Arvanites from the villages of Soulima, Trifylia
settled in the village and they were the first to give it the name Syriza, a distortion
of which later gave the name Simiza. The first official appearance of the name
Simiza is in the census carried out by the Venetians in 1700. Based on that census
19 families with 31 men and 29 women lived in the village.
Arsinoi contributed to the 1821 War for the Independence two great
fighters, Yiannis Tsiros and Yiannis Lekkas or Lekopoulos who served as an officer.
Up to 1833 it belonged to the province of Implakia. In 1836 it became part of
the newly founded municipality of Ithome. In the beginning of the 20th century
and up to 1927 it was part of the community of Mavromati and had 238 inhabitants.
From that moment on it became a separate village with 241 inhabitants, until 1998
when it was incorporated in the Municipality of Ithome.
The Primary School of Arsinoi that operated since 1937 moved to a
new building in 1952. The village was linked to the water network in 1958. The
church was built in 1970, which was also the year the community office was built
and the remodeling of the village square begun.
This text is cited April 2003 from the
Municipality of Ithomi tourist pamphlet.
ASSINI (Ancient city) ARGOLIS
Ancient Asine has been identified with the rocky promontory, today
called Kastraki, by the village
of Tolo.
The excavations began in the 1920’s by a French team but were
continued by the Swedish after the Crown Prince of Sweden
visited the site. They investigated the Acropolis and the parts of the southern
and eastern slopes of the Barbouna hill across it. It was found that people had
lived in the area more or less continuously since the Early Bronze Age or the
beginning of the third millenium BC until late Antiquity, approximately the fourth
century AD.
Asine was never a major site in the Argolid
but it nevertheless played an important role as a wellprotected harbour during
its history. Its strategic importance is very much in evidence at the site, where
today mainly the Hellenic fortifications are preserved. They were repaired in
Ottoman times and reused by the Italian occupation forces during the Second World
War.
Today, within the site there is a church dedicated to Virgin Mary.
This text is cited March 2004 from the Tolo
Business Association tourist pamphlet.
CHOUNI (Settlement) LYRKIA
On our way to Karia,
there are the built-up areas of Chouni and Spaneika.
There are two beautiful villages with old and modern houses scattered on both
roadsides. Lately, the region has been dramatically developed due to the extended
cultivation of orange and apricot trees.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
DASKALIO (Isolated island) ASSINI
Behind Romvi
there is an island called Daskalio, which was fortified by the Venetians and there
are remnants of that fortification preserved until today.
The church of Panagia Zoodohos Pigi, built in 1688, rises on the highest
point of the island.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the
Prefectorial Self-Government of Argolida tourist pamphlet.
DENDRA (Village) MIDEA
In the Vicinity of Dendra, the archaeological excavations in 1938
dag up magnificent carved and vaulted tombs, the funeral gifts of which were transferred
and are now permanent exhibits in the Museums of Nafplio
and Athens. The most prominent
among these finds are the mycenean panoply, which was made in around 1450BC, and
the urn depicting an octopus, representative of the naturalistic technique.
The archaeological site in Dendra is one of the most important archaeological
sites of the Province, as
it is for that matter shown by the finds of more recent excavations in that area.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefectorial
Self-Government of Argolida tourist pamphlet.
DIALISKARI (Small port) GARGALIANI
The 'port' of Dialiskari is situated 6 kms west of Gargaliani
and 2 kms south of Marathos.
It is an ancient town, which according to the researcher and Headmaster of the
local High school, Mr. Sot. Liritzis is the same as the ancient town of Erana
of Stravonas. Mr. Nathan Valmin who has carefully studied the ruins of Dialiskari
has come to the following conclusion: "I am coming across ancient Erana when
I see the ruins of Dialiskari." There are ruins of probably Roman buildings
with mosaic floors and tiled yards and bedrooms.
There are two marble streaked pillars, two capitals of Ionian Order,
ten bases of Ionian pillars and plenty of shards. The small church of "St. Nicolas"
stands just 50 metres southeast of the Port of Dialiskari. It was built by the
survivors of a shipwreck in1900.
This text is cited Oct 2003 from the Municipality of Gargaliani URL below
ELLINIKO (Village) ARGOS
Tel: +30 27510 86277
Elliniko, a semi-mountainous built-up area that lies on the southeast
side of "Evangelismos". It is a fertile area with olive trees, apricot
trees, lemon trees and a large variety of orange trees. Elliniko has been built
around the church of St. George upon "Kastraki" hill. At the top of
the hill, there is a peculiar ancient building: the Pyramid
of Elliniko.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
EPIDAVROS (Small town) ARGOLIS
Amidst the green of the Argolic earth and the blue of the Saronic
Gulf, well protected on its own smaller gulf of Epidavros, with the scent
from the valley’s orange blossoms meeting the sea breeze in its picturesque
and friendly port, and with the pines descending its slopes to offer their shade
to its beautiful beaches, Ancient Epidavros, traditional yet modern, both tranquil
and cosmopolitan, is always ready to welcome travelers no matter the season.
Midway along the east coast of the Argolid
district, easy to reach whether by road via the Corinth
Canal or Nafplion or by
sea aboard a Flying Dolphin from Piraeus,
with its houses spread out amphitheatrically from the sea inland, the little town
is built on the site of the ancient city-state of Epidavros,
near the Sanctuary of Asklepios and the ancient theatre, which attract thousands
of visitors every day.
Quiet, pleasant people, occupied in fishing, tending the orange groves,
and tourism, a mild climate, beautiful surroundings and a sound infrastructure
provide the framework for what today’s tourist wants: a pleasant stay, recreation
by the sea yet close to greenery, opportunities for all kinds of entertainment
and the chance to sightsee the vicinity.
The text is cited March 2004 from the Municipality
of Epidavros tourist pamphlet.
ERMIONI (Small town) ARGOLIS
Ermioni is a seaside town of captivating beauty or an “island-town”
as it has been called. It is the seat of the municipality bearing the same name
and consists of the settlements of Achladitsa,
Podari, Petrothalassa,
St. Anargyri, Kouverta and
Kineta.
Ermioni is an ideal holiday resort, for it combines harmoniously the
tranquillity an island can offer and lively entertainment. The sea embracing it
from both sides forms a port in the north - the latter being the town’s
main commercial center - and the area of Mandrakia in the south. In the traditional
coffee shops and in the picturesque tavernas overhung by octopuses drying in the
sun and with fishermen’s nets being all around, visitors can enjoy their
wine or ouzo and snack on fresh seafood. Mandrakia is the liveliest area of the
city, its nightlife lasting until dawn.
The road that ascends through the paved lanes and the beautiful dwellings
of Ermioni leads to he slope of the ancient hill of Pronos, which is crowned at
the top by the chapel of St. Ermioni; the latter, built in the typical Greek island
architectural style on the foundations of the temple of goddess Hera, commands
a unique view over Dokos (findings
from the world’s oldest shipwreck) appearing eastward on the horizon, and
the island of Hydra that is
delineated further beyond. From the same spot one is afforded a fine view over
the plain which is reputed for yielding fine products, such as the pomegranates
of Ermioni - a unique Greek culture - citrus fruits and of course the well-known
local olive oil. Visitors should not miss out on a walk towards Mylos, situated
on the Krothi hill facing the port, wherefrom a magnificent view of Ermioni can
be enjoyed.
Apart from the beaches of Bitsi, there are beautiful stretches of
sand around Ermioni, Kouverta,
Sendoni, Petrothalassa, St.
Dimitrios, Dardiza, as well as the coasts of Thermissia
and Plepi which are ideal
for a swim in crystal clear waters.
A number of events and festivities are held in Ermioni which are worth
attending, such as: the yala-yala, celebrated in a unique, special way on the
day of the Epiphany; the Shrove Monday feast in Mandrakia; the burning of Judas
on Easter Sunday; various cultural events held in August, culminating in the choral
festival.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Municipality
of Ermioni tourist pamphlet.
EXOCHI (Settlement) ALEA
Exochi or “Tatsi” is situated at the foot of the Mountain
Farmakas.
Its houses are surrounded by tall trees and it is a lyric and cool
picture on summer and an ideal snowed landscape on winter.
The few local deal with cultivation and cattle raising. They have
also olive trees and 2000 walnut trees.
(Text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
FARMAKAS (Mountain) LYRKIA
Driving up the Mountain Farmakas- a magnificent mountain with fir
trees- we reach Farmakas children camp, organised by the Municipality
of Argos. It is a natural landscape full of fir trees and enough chill.
(Text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
FREGENI (Village) LYRKIA
Tel: +30 27510 75295
The village of Fregaina is 16Km away from Argos.
It is a cattle-raising village with both stony and modern houses. Its most beautiful
characteristic is the church of Saint Apostles.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
FROUSSIOUNA (Village) ALEA
After Kefalovriso
is Frousiouna, a small village among trees and green, 6km from Kefalovriso
and 45km from Argos. Frousiouna
is ‘protected’ by the gigantic mountains of Lyrkeio,
Trachi, Armenia and Karoumpalos.
During winter it is inhabited by few people. On summer though, it
is frequently visited by people who own houses and want to enjoy nature. At the
center there is a nice stony fountain, while on Armenia Mountain there is the
chapel of Santa Paraskevi.
Frousiouna was once keeping the spirit of tradition alive. Marriage
was celebrated in a special way.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
GEROLIMENAS (Village) ITYLO
GYMNO (Village) LYRKIA
After the village of Sterna,
we reach Gymno. It is a lively village situated upon the eastern mountainsides
of Mountain Farmakas. With
the old stony houses, the traditional fountain and the Byzantine chapel of the
Virgin Mary, Gymno maintains the mountainous characteristics. At the same time,
though, it is a village with characteristics of a plain, as it has smooth land,
several modern houses and easy communication with Argos
and Nemea.
(Text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
IERA MONI AGIOU GEORGIOU FENEOU (Monastery) FENEOS
Tel: +30 27470 41226
An important monastery complex northwest of the village of Kalyvia.
The catholikon is a domed basilica with narthex and exonarthex, built in 1693.
In 1754 the church was renovated and wall paintings were made by Panayiotes of
Ioannina. The carved templon dates to the 18th century.
IERA MONI LOUKOUS (Monastery) ARCADIA
Tel: +30 27550 41260
The
monument lies to the NW of Astros, in the area of ancient Thyreatis, which is full of antiquities. It was probably built on the site of an Early Christian church of the 5th century AD. The catholicon is a domed church of the composite four columned, cross-in-square type. It is decorated with fine wall paintings and its floor is paved with coloured marble slabs. The wall masonry imitates a careless "cloisonne", and includes ancient architectural parts and brick ornaments. The iconostasis (chancel barrier) is decorated with portable icons dated to the 17th century.
The first literary reference to the monastery is in the "Geographica" of Meletios, the Metropolitan Bishop of Athens in 1690. The English traveller J. Leake visited the monastery in 1805.
Regarding the name "Loukou", several theories have appeared:
•the monastery was dedicated to St. Lucia,
•it was due to the ancient cult of Hera (Juno Lucina),
•it was named Lykou after the wolves (lykoi) living in the area,
•the monastery was dedicated to St. Luke,
• it was related to the "Lucus Feroniae"(woods of prey) in which
the Villa of Herodes Atticus was located.
The roof of the catholicon (main church) has been retiled, the two-storeyed
tower has been supported and the cells have been restored. In the 1980's the painted
decoration of the church was systematically preserved and in 1994-95 the mosaic
floor of the catholicon was restored. Today the monument is a convent for nuns.
ILIOKASTRO (Village) ERMIONI
Tel: +30 27540 91274
Heliokastro is situated northward of Ermioni,
about 7km from the town, is laid out on the plateau of Ilei.
The site of Ilei, which probably
took its name from the “Ilei vineyards” that produced sweet wine,
was located northward of Aderes.
In the past, a small settlement was found in the area, while today, one can still
detect the enclosure of the polygonal walls adjacent to the small steep hill which
was probably used as an acropolis. According to Pausanias, temples for the worship
of Demeter and her daughter were erected here. The road linking Ermioni
and Troizinia used to pass
from that settlement.
Today, Heliokastro would be highly appreciated by wine lovers. The
ascending-although not tiring- route affords visitors a panoramic view of the
indented coasts, and leads to the small, traditional village and its tavernas
offering local mezedes (snacks).
The text is cited March 2004 from the Municipality
of Ermioni tourist pamphlet.
IREA (Municipality) ARCADIA
Twenty seven villages and communities constitute the Municipality
of Irea with the districts of Agios Ioanis, Arahova, Kakoureika, Kokinorahi, Kokoras,
Liodora, Lutra of Irea and Likouresi, Lisarea, Ochthia, Paluba, which is the administrative
centre, Pirris, Rafti, Sarakini of Irea, Servo, Chrisohori and Psari. The Municipality
is seated in the Prefecture of Arcadia, and holds and area of 144082 square meters.
Population: 3059 citizens (according to the 2001 cesnus).
The village of Palouba, the seat of the municipality, is the starting
point for tours around the other villages, while visitors may seize the opportunity
of tasting traditional foods and relishes at its coffeehouses and restaurants.
The road to Zatuna and Dimitsana passes through the picturesque large village
of Rafti, where there is a traditional hostel and three restaurants still in operation,
while the picturesque country church of Taxiarhes (Archangels) attracts our attention.
Agalo is situated close the Rafti, with its picturesque stone-built houses and
its high quality dairy products. Three km away from Raftis there is Arachova,
where the picturesque villages of Kokoras and Kakoureirka, the church of Agiow
Athanasios of Christianoupoli, the "Cave of Lagaftis" and the remains of Aga's
Tower House are unfolded before our eyes down the valley of Irea. The village
of Palouba is the starting point of a marvelous route to the village of Sarakini,
where a visit to the community office with the excellent folk collection, is worthwhile.
In close proximity to Sarakini there is Lisarea; one road from there leads to Ochthia, a village with a lovely view, while the other one lead to Kokinorahi. Moving on from Ochthia, we pass through Liodora, where it's worth having a rest enjoying the traditional raki. One of the major villages of the Municipality of Irea is the one of Servo; it is amphitheatrically built, surrounded by lush vegetation, with many interesting folk heirlooms. The church of Zoodochos Pigi (lifi-giving spring), the church of the Panagia (Virgin Mary), "tou papa to lithari" ("the stone of the priest") next to the church of Agia Paraskevi (St Paraskevi), "o Soros tis Grias" ("the corpse of the old woman") with the ancient tomb and the house of the chieftain Daras in the village are all of special interest; coffee-shops and taverns are open throughout the year.
From Servos, the road leads to Likouresi and Psari, two picturesque
villages ideal for tranquil walks. Moving on from Servos, we meet the marvelous
canyon of Gura coming down to the village of Kokinorahi (red slope). One of the
main characteristics of the municipality of Irea is its exquisite mineral water
springs situated in the village of Lutra Ireas (Spas of Irea) and consisting of
twenty luxurious cabins and bathtubs; they are considered to be the best in Greece
marked out for their healing properties (tel. 0970 25000). Inside the village
there are coffee-shops and taverns that are opened throughout the year.
Moving on from the Spas of Irea, the road leads to the villages of
Loti and Agios Ioannis. The ancient Irea was once situated in this area, whose
remains are nowadays scattered all over. All the villages of the Municipality
of Irea offer a unique opportunity of experiencing splendid moments of beauty;
also the visitor should by no means fail to taste their wine and local raki, their
cheeses and frumenty, all of which are traditional products of the Municipality.
This text is cited Feb 2003 from the Municipality of Irea URL below, which contains image.
KAPARELI (Village) LYRKIA
Tel: +30 27510 71430
Kapareli is a village surrounded by rich and mountainous vegetation,
as it is situated between the mountains of Lyrkeion
and Artemisio. Opposite it
is the mountain of Xerovouni
(Melidoni). It is 27km away from Argos.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KARYA (Village) LYRKIA
Tel: +30 27510 75223
Karia is one of the most beautiful mountainous villages of Argolida
County. It is also the largest one with 303 inhabitants according to the 1991
census. The village is the favourite resort to all those who live in Argos,
as they have the opportunity to enjoy the snow during winter. And it is only 20
kilometres away!
The village was first built on the top of Prophet Helias. Later, the
locals decided to move lower, as the cold was intolerable. During the Greek War
of Independence of 1821, Karia suffered the anger of Ibrahem.
Nowadays, the locals deal with cattle-raising, vineyards and olive
trees. At the centre of the village, there is the elementary school, a stony building
that ‘hosts’ few pupils, who still live in Karia. Do not forget to
visit the ruins of the old watermills. They are signs of the glory that was.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KARYES (Village) LAKEDEMONA
On the northwestern slopes of Mt.
Parnon, at an altitude of 900 m., lies Karyes, a pretty village near the site
of the ancient town with the
same name where Artemis Karyatis was worshipped. The goddess was accompanied
by the virgin Caryatid nymphs, whose statues adorned the Erechthion of the Acropolis
at Athens. At the village there is a copy of the Erechthion and the statues.
The church of Panagia has probably been erected on the site of the goddess’s
temple.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Laconia tourist pamphlet.
Tel: +30 27310 95162, 95345
Fax: +30 27310 95345
On the northwestern slopes of Mt.
Parnon, at an altitude of 900 m., lies Karyes, a pretty village near the site
of the ancient town with the
same name where Artemis Karyatis was worshipped. The goddess was accompanied
by the virgin Caryatid nymphs, whose statues adorned the Erechthion of the Acropolis
at Athens. At the village there is a copy of the Erechthion and the statues.
The church of Panagia has probably been erected on the site of the goddess’s
temple.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Laconia tourist pamphlet.
KEFALARI (Village) ARGOS
Tel: +30 27510 86301
Kefalari is situated three kilometres southwest of Argos.
It is among groves, rural houses, modern villas and old traditional watermills.
The picturesque church and old traditional watermills. The picturesque church
of Zoodochos Pigi along with the amusement grounds around river
Erasinos springs, make Kefalari an attractive place to visit.
The waters of river
Erasinos form a wonderful lake under the church of Zoodochos Pigi. The scenery
becomes even more beautiful with the plane trees and the large number of taverns.
The village of Kefalari is also known for its cave that used to be
a subterranean riverbed. Excavations had brought into light Neolithic ceramics,
however, the cave had been inhabited much earlier. German archeologists had found
blades and spearheads that date back to the beginnings of the late Palaeolithic
Age, circa 35000 BC!
The church of Zoodochos Pigi or else the Virgin Mary Kefalariotissa
has been built in the cave and it is visited by a large number of pilgrims each
year.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KEFALINOS (Village) ITHOMI
The village is situated at the foot of the Kapsalas Mountain. It dates
back to the 11th - 12th century AD. Kefalinos, a Norman landowner, to whom it
owes its name, built it.
On the east, opposite the village, lies the Panayia (Virgin Mary)
Mountain. The church "Deposition of the holly belt" dedicated to Virgin Mary is
on its top.
Water is abundant in the Kefalinos village and it springs from fountains
under the shadow of plane trees, on the three sides of the village. The first
fountain called Pano Vryssi (upper fountain) originates from the top of the Kapsalas
Mountain and used to be decorated with two arches out of which only one has been
saved. The second one, Pera Vryssi (far-away fountain), is estimated to be over
700 year-old and consists of two springs. The water of Krya Vryssi (fresh fountain)
comes from a spring under the Holy Altar of the church of Agios (Saint) Athanasios.
Kefalinos is the birthplace of Ilias Kormas, hero of the 1821 Greek
War for the Independence, chieftain of Kontovounia and one of the prominent personalities
of the area.
This text is cited April 2003 from the
Municipality of Ithomi tourist pamphlet.
KEFALOVRYSSO (Village) LYRKIA
Tel: +30 27510 71388
Four kilometers after Douka
and 36 km from Argos is Kefalovriso,
a village among green trees and cool waters. It is one of the most beautiful and
impressive mountainous villages of Argolida.
Kefalovriso is named after the well-known spring that stands next
to the church of the Virgin Mary.
Years ago, the event of marriage was celebrated very specially and
the locals followed traditional customs. Feasts lasted a whole week!
(Text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KOKLA (Settlement) ARGOS
Driving after the old abattoirs of Argos
along olive and orange groves, you reach the isolated village of Kokla. Kokla
has a panoramic view of the plain and the Argolic
gulf. Its beautiful stony houses are renovated by their owners, who visit
the village during summer so that they enjoy the clear atmosphere and the majestic
view of the plain and the gulf.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KOLOSSOURTIS (Location) ACHLADOKAMBOS
The old national highway that linked Argos
with the city of Tripoli is
one of the most well known roads in Greece.
It used to be a road of communication with central Peloponnese
known then as Kolosourtis. From Kolosourtis (the road) visitors have the opportunity
to admire the wonderful view of the Argolic
gulf and Nauplia.
Kolosourtis used to be the largest road guillotine. It used to be
narrow and slippery, with curves of 180 degrees next to a precipice. Hundreds
of accidents revealed its dangerousness.
However, today things are different. The new national highway that
links Corinth with Tripoli
has made Kolosourtis less busy. Although traffic is not frequent, the road has
been reconstructed. It is now wider with less curves and non-slippery surface.
Before reaching Achladokampos and on the right side of the road, there
is a 4km road that leads to Nera. There are many springs and plane trees in Nera,
as well as an old Byzantine chapel rebuilt by the emigrants. This is where the
great feast of Achladokampos takes place.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KOUTSOPODI (Village) ARGOLIS
Koutsopodi was the capital of the ancient «Mysias» municipality which
was founded by King Othonas. The name «Mysias» is also found in Pafsania' s «Korinthiaka»,
who relates that there is a hamlet by the name Mysias, where there is the temple
of the Greek Goddess Dimitra of Mysias. Dimitra was considered to be mother of
agriculture.
On the old site of the ancient temple there is a Christian church
nowadays, the church of «Metamorphosis of Sotiras». Nearby there are the ruins
of a Byzantine temple ,evidence that show the existence of an ancient hamlet at
this region. Vavaroi who were considered to have a great knowledge of the ancient
Greek civilization , accepted the Greek tradition and sagas and identified ancient
Mysia with Koutsopodi.
During the survey of 1700, about 75 families seemed to live at Koutsopodi.
The survey of 1999 shows that about 2.360 people live there. The inhabitants of
Koutsopodi used to grow up a lot of crops as wheat barley, rye, oats, potatoes,
tomatoes, a lot of melons and vegetables. They also cultivated vineyards and olive
trees. All of these have now been replaced by the cultivation of orange trees,
lemon trees and citrous trees in general as well as appricot trees and olive trees.
The land is fertile , and the yield per acre is high enough. This makes the inhabitants
prosperous and has also attracted a lot of foreign immigrants who consist the
labor force of the area. Koutsopodi is developing at a very fast rate into a town.
KROKEES (Small town) KROKEES
Our town Krokees (Krokeai or Levetsova as it used to be called) is
a small town located south of Sparta,
between the mountains Taygetos
and Parnon, in the county
of Laconia. The county of Laconia is the southernmost county of mainland Greece.
In ancient times (bronze age) Krokeai was inhabited by the Achaian
and Pelasgian tribes. Later, around 1100 BC along with the rest of Laconia
it was occupied by the Dorians. Krokeai was famous for its beautiful deep green
volcanic stone with golden spots known as "Krokeatis Lithos" (Krokean
stone). This stone, an image of which we used to create our front web page is
unique to the area of "Psiphi" in Krokeai. Although this stone is very
difficult to work with and shape, it was used to create beautiful spots and vases.
It was also used to decorate public bath houses, such as the ones in Corinth.
Later, as legend has it, the stone was used to adorn the church of St.Sophia in
Constantinoupole and the church of St. Paul in Rome. The simple tomb of 300 Spartans
in Thermopile is also made
with our unique Krokean stone.
Dioskouri (sons of Dias or Zeus) were believed to be the protectors
of the ancient town of Krokeai. A marble plaque of Dioskouri which was excavated
in recent times adorns the fountain in the central square of the town.
The modern Krokees have approximately 1400 ihabitants (in the early
50s its population was over 3000). The people of Krokees are distinguished by
their cultural activities and progressive lifestyles. The town has an elementary,
a middle and a high school. It also has a music band, its own newspaper, an olive
oil and cooperative and more, while its annual mardi-grass is well known to all
of Hellas (Greece). Many proffesionals, scientists and artists have sprung out
this little town, among them the famous Greek poet Nikiforos Vrettakos.
In the last ninety years many Krokeates (Krokeans) moved to Athens,
however many more immigrated to the United States, Canada and Australia. There,
as our poet wrote, "they build islands of Hellenism, which stand outby their
one point,...their illumination".
KRYA VRYSSI (Settlement) ARGOS
Kria Vrysi is a mountainous and isolated village with very few inhabitants
(25, according to the census of 1991).
Most of the houses are in a good condition, while there is a large
newly built church located next to the older one. The mountains of Ktenias,
Artemisio, Gaidourovouni
and Mavrovouni surround the
three villages on the northern basin of Argolida
County.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KRYONERI (Settlement) ARGOS
Three kilometres northwest, some isolated houses form the ‘village’,
built-up area of Krioneri or Bouga.
Before reaching the village’s main fountain, you will meet a
road on the right. This road leads to Tourniki.
One and a half kilometres after Krioneri, you will also meet a clump
of four huge oaks. It is an ideal spot for camping and rest.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
KYLLINI (Mountain) CORINTHIA
The area is ideal for lovers of hiking, while the slopes stretching
from the little shelter to the top of the mountain are ideal for skiing.
Finally, there are many forest roads, with wonderful routes through
the firry woods.
The text (extract) is cited January 2004 from the Municipality
of Xylokastro pamphlet.
KYVERI (Small town) LERNA
Tel: +30 27510 47349
Kiveri, according to the descriptions by ancient authors, is the place
of the “Genession” (birthplace), the place where Danaos first came
to anchor. Honouring this event there was a temple built in this area, the temple
of Genessios Poseidon.
The excavations in Kiveri brought to light Mycenean tombs, ancient
facilities in the area of Ag. Demetrios and evidence of an ancient temple in Ag.
Elias.
Two kilometers south of Kiveri, in the cove of Ag. Giorgi, there is
a great spring of fresh water gushing from under the sea, Anavalos,
the exploitation of which, through the great projects being in full progress,
is expected to radically resolve the irrigation problems of the Province.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefectorial
Self-Government of Argolida tourist pamphlet.
LAGADIA (Village) LAGADIA
Lagadia is a very picturesque Arcadia n town. Situated on a mountainous
august landscape with fresh water springs, it offers an imposing sight to every
visitor. The two and three storey stone houses that are amphitheatrically built
on a steep slope create the impression of a stone-built work of art. Furthermore,
it is the fatherland of Delegianneon and other chieftains and veterans of the
1821 revolution.
Lagadia is the homeland of skilled craftsmen and artisans who had
an excellent knowledge of the art of stone and for generations built houses, churches
and schools all over Arcadia, Messinia and the rest of Greece. In this way their
reputation was spread everywhere. A strong proof of their talent and fame is the
view of the village houses. It is said (Balafouti, "Workmen: Lagadiani")
that the tradition of Lagadian stone-artisans dates back to villager-workmen coming
mainly from Laggadia. The villager-workmen had gone away to Italy after the victory
of Byzantium but years later they returned and settled in Akovo , which is located
near Vyziki . At around 1210 a villager-workman who had the position of secretary,
stole plans from the Frankish castle of Akovo that belonged to the architects.
Since then, Laggadian people preserve and carry on the tradition in architecture.
In addition, they passed on their artistry to other capable continuers as the
workmen of Kosma Kynourias.
Laggadia is built on a steep canyon on an altitude of 900 meters.
The houses that are amphitheatrically built on the slope are facing the ravine.
Due to the slope, many of those are designed to have one storey at the one side
of the road and three at the other. The Central Square of the village stands on
the edge of a deep ravine rich in walnut trees, plane trees and fresh water streams.
At this point Thoa canyon begins and stretches crossing a big part of Gortynia
and eventually ending up at river Ladona. Laggadia is also known for its developed
local weaving mill handicraft. The upper part of the village, Pano Geitonia, apart
from having a magnificent view, is unique in picturesqueness. The most important
sights are the house of Deligiannis, and the old historic churches of "Agion
Taxiarhon" (1805) and "Agion Apostolon" (1845) that are characterized
by their peculiar belfries. Especially at the front of Taxiarhon church, one will
notice the stone-made artistic belfry, which is equipped with a clock. Some other
remarkable stone-made structures are the Gymnasium and many elegant fountains
that decorate the village.
To get to Lagadia one must go through Vytina . This road continues
towards Ilia passing through Olympia. An interesting route is the one that leads
to Tropea and Byziki.
LAGIA (Village) ANATOLIKI MANI
Tel: +30 27330 21846
LIMNI VOYLIAGMENIS LOUTRAKI (Lagoon) LOUTRAKI-PERACHORA
The peaceful lagoon of Vouliagmeni lies 16-km. northwest of Loutraki
and was caused by the subsidence of the ground to α kind of trench.
The lagoon is 2 km. long and up to 1 km. wide. Its depth is estimated
at 40 m. Α channel of 6-m. width provides an outlet to the sea.
In ancient times, it was called Eschatiotis (meaning the “last” part
of the promontory) or Corgopis (from the mother of Megareus, who was drowned in
its waters). No trace has survived of the ancient Megarean colony of Aegeirus,
which stood to the north of the lagoon.
A settlement dating back to the early Helladic I period was discovered
by the archaeologist J.M. Fossey about 30 m. west of the channel from the lagoon
into the Gulf of Corinth.
Another settlement, of early Helladic 11, has come to light to the
north-west, and 300 meters from this an ossuary of the same period yielded the
bones of 10 dead and some 500 vessels. It can be concluded from the scattered
finds of sherds that in the third and second millennia BC, families of farmers
and fishermen sparsely inhabited the area.
LOUTRAKI-PERACHORA (Municipality) CORINTHIA
The Municipality of Loutraki-Perachora, which was established in 1934,
stems from the restructuring of the former Municipality of Perachorans and today,
apart from Loutraki and Perachora,
it also includes the former Communities of Pisia and Isthmia. The town of Loutraki
is its administrative centre.
The town of Loutraki,
known since antiquity for its medicinal water, owes its name to the spa baths
that operated at its springs and was known during ancient times by the name “Thermae”.
Later, it was acknowledged as the metropolitan centre of touristic Greece and
of course, as the first therapeutic centre.
The Municipality covers an area of 196,870 km2 and has a population
of approximately 16,520. During the summer period, the population of Loutraki
exceeds 100,000. The local inhabitants are mainly occupied in the tourism industry
and at the same time in the developing light manufacturing industry, craft industry
and agriculture. The local industries are mostly involved in bottling mineral
water and making confectionery items, two products for which Loutraki is renowned.
The Municipality of Loutraki-Perachora is the most tourist-developed
municipality in the prefecture of Corinthia,
with a very high tourist activity by Greek standards.
This text is cited Jan 2004 from the Municipality of Loutrakion - Perachoras URL below, which contains image.
LOUTRAKI (Town) CORINTHIA
Where the past and the future spin their web, the present reveals
a secret paradise, ideal for as many of the year's 365 days that a visitor chooses!
The unique combination of climatic conditions and exquisite natural environment
make Loutraki an ideal location with limitless possibilities for both winter and
summer tourism. Its mild Mediterranean climate, the crystal clear sea and its
beautiful beaches, which have been awarded the “European Blue Flag”
continuously sine 1987, as well as the thick fir-tree of the Gerania
mountain range that spreads around it, all composes a picture of incomparable
beauty!
The prolonged sunshine that prevails in the area all year round, the
absence of humidity, the fascinating natural environment that is created by the
combination of mountain and sea, and its famous medicinal and natural mineral
waters are the most important factors that contribute to the development of recreational
and therapeutic tourism! The ideal place for holidays, whatever your preference
may be: swimming and water sports at the very clean beaches, mountain sports,
hiking, monuments and sightseeing within a very short distance, easy access to
the most important achaeological sites in Greece,
rich cultural events and local festivals, lively night-life, impeccable organization
and service, friendly hospitable local residents, cosmopolitan atmosphere, excellent
tourist infrastructure, good road network for excursions to the nearby archaeological
sites. All these elements compose the picture of a dreamlike holiday resort, which
is gaining more and more fanatic friends.
(Text: Vana Nikolopoulou, Antonis Koukoulas)
This text is cited November 2003 from the Loutraki Perachora Municipality Tourism Development Enterprise pamphlet.
LYRKIA (Village) LYRKIA
Lyrkeia is more mountainous village. Its soil is suitable for vineyards,
olive trees and tobacco crops.
Lyrkeia is the capital of Lyrkeia
Municipality. Its population is 779 and it is one of the most notable villages
in Argolida. The locals are
constantly exploit village’s fertile soil by cultivating olive trees and
tobacco. After Lyrkeia, you meet the citadel of the prehistoric
town of Lygeia.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited April 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
MALADRENI (Village) KOUTSOPODI
Tel: +30 27510 71378
Malandreni is built on the top of a high hill. It seems perched up there being surrounded by other green hills and a lot of ravines. At the top of the hill there is the famous church of 'Panagia Myrtithiotisa'. The village is also famous for the good wine and olive oil produced there.Its architecture is a mixture of modern style and this of a century ago.The inhabitants live peacefully up there away from the noise and smog of the big city. They are friendly people and especially hospitable to tourists or foreign people who visit their place. They show their hospitality offering hearty welcome to those who will visit their local fair of 'Maithanasis' on the first of May every year and also during carnival time when they offer a very good time and a lot of good local wine, food and sweets to their visitors.
MANTINIA (Municipality) ARCADIA
The Municipality of Mantineia is situated at the northeastern side
in the county of Arcadia and it is 205.393.000 m2 in extent. It spreads on the
tableland of Mantineia between the mountain Mainalo on the west, Lirkeon on the
northeast and Artemisio on the east. It borders on the east and northeast the
county of Argolida, on northwest the municipality of Levidi, on southwest the
municipality of Phalanthos and on south with the municipalities of Tripoli and
Corithio.
The population of the municipality comes up to 3.628 inhabitants,
according to the census of 1991. The municipality of Mantineia consists of seven
Municipal Departments, that is Nestani (1112 inhabitants), Artemision (621 inhabitants),
Kapsia (460 inhabitants), Louca (674 inhabitants), Pikerni (237 inhabitants),
Sagka (285 inhabitants) and Simiades (239 inhabitants). The seat of the municipality
is at the settlement of Nestani.
The majority of the settlements of the municipality are built at
the foot of the mountain Artemision, except of the M.D. Kapsia and Simiades that
are built at the foot of the mountain Mainalo. The settlements are semi-mountainous
because of the terrain morphology, except the M.D. of Sagka, that is mountainous.
The main production of the municipality area is based on the cereals, vegetable,
apples, honey, potatoes, pears, grapes for vinification and stock-raising products.
Specially, we have to refer the famous wines of the region, having "MANTINEIA"
as their name of origin.
In the geographic area of the municipality, there is the historical
place of ancient Mantineia, the "πολυάμπελος χώρα" [1] of Homers. The archaeological
area of Ancient Mantineia is 14 kms far away from Tripoli and consists of the
ancient theater, of which the stage is saved untouched, the remains of the temple
of Zeus, and the chamber of deputies and the remains of the market.
This text is cited Feb 2003 from the Municipality of Mantinia URL below, which contains image.
MAVROMATI (Village) MESSINIA
Tel: +30 27240 51436
In the heart of Ancient
Messini, on the western slope of the Ithome
Mountain, lies the village of Mavrommati. It owes its name to the mouth of an
ancient spring- fountain (otherwise known as Clepsydra) and carries with it ancient
legends and traditions of the area. In this same area, you may also visit the
Museum of Ancient Messini and admire a multitude of archaeological findings uncovered
during the many excavations in the archaeοlogical site of ancient Messini. The
Sanctuary of Artemis Limnatis (Diana of the Lakes) is situated on the northeast
of the village, on a plateau half way to the top of the Ithome Mountain, at the
location known as "Spelouza".
This text is cited April 2003 from the
Municipality of Ithomi tourist pamphlet.
MELIGALAS (Small town) MESSINIA
A significant local centre and a beautiful community in the middle
of a fertile valley with a continuous history from the 11th century onwards.
A festival takes place every September as well as in carnival season,
complete with wine and food for all visitors and plenty of dancing.
The nearby community of Zevgolatio
also hosts carnival activities.
North of Meligalas are the communities of Melpeia, a beautiful, green
area with numerous springs and a cool summer.
This text is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Messinia tourist pamphlet.
MERKOURI (Settlement) LYRKIA
Merkouri is a village of 30 houses, not particularly mountainous.
Its inhabitants deal with olive trees, produce and cattle-raising.
The natural environment that surrounds Merkouri is majestic. This
is where Artemisio and Ktenias
Mountains join.
(text: Alexis Totsikas)
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Argolis tourist pamphlet.
METAMORFOSSI (Village) MOLAI
Tel: +30 27320 22950
MONEMVASSIA (Village) LACONIA
Surrounded by walls and built on the southern slopes of the headland,
which the Byzantines separated, leaving only a narrow causeway (hence its name
in Greek, "single passage"), Monemvassia still retains much of its former
medieval character. For this reason perhaps it has now become popular with artists
and world celebrities.
Monemvassia was founded in the 6th century A.D. and has since suffered
the domination of Normans, Franks, Venetians and Turks, all of whom made additions
to the fortifications of the city.
The stately old mansions and 40 old Byzantine churches, some well
preserved, others not, in the Lower Town reflect the power and prosperity which
Monemvassia enjoyed for centuries under her various rulers. Of the churches within
the old city, that of Agios Nikolaos (18th cent.) and Elkomenou Christou, which
is Venetian in part, are certainly worth a short visit. A paved pathway leads
to the summit of the hill and the castle,
which overlooks the town below. Round the castle
are a number of Byzantine towers and several beautiful Byzantine churches in the
whole of Greece, built in the
same style as that at Dafni
near Athens. It is the 13th
century church of Agia Sofia, which welcomes its visitors to enjoy the beauty
of art in a natural setting.
The once rich vineyards of the region which produced the renowned
Malmsey wine are no longer cultivated, but this is not to say that Monamvassia
is without wine - necessary accompaniment to the red mullet and lobster for which
it is famous.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Greek
National Tourism Organization tourist pamphlet (1980).
MONI AGION ANARGYRON (Monastery) INOUDAS
Tel: +30 27310 73225
MONI AGION TESSARAKONTA (Monastery) THERAPNES
On the road to Chrysafa
and about eight kilometers outside Sparti,
on an altitude of 400 meters northeast there is the monastery
of Agii Tessarakonta Martyres. It was first founded on the 13th century on
the mountain of Stamatira (within the of Sofroni) and today only a small chapel
remains within a cave where the hagiography bares the signature of the painter
Constantine Manassis. Because of the difficult weather conditions as well as various
enemy attacks the monks moved into the current new position and built the monastery
in 1615. With time an entire monastery center was constructed with the full cooperation
and support of the local population who contributed for the erection of the new
buildings.
During the difficult years a "hidden school" operated inside
the chapel of Zoodochos Pigi. In 1770 the chapel was blown up. Before the revolution
of 1821 the monastery was full of life and it’s wealth was substantial,
enough to employ numerous workers for the agricultural activities of the monastery.
The money that was gathered from those activities was often used as prisoners’
ransom payment and as a result after the end of the revolution the monastery ended
up in financial despair.
Theodoros Kolokotronis (the head of the revolution and generally believed
the father of the new nation) with a letter to the head of the monastery thanked
the monks for their support and their contribution to the fight of independence
from the Turks.
The wall paintings that are preserved till today (after the destruction
of 1770) were re-painted by the Crete priest and hagiographer Georgios Kalliterakis
following the commission of Paisios Zacharopoulos.
The folklore art gave the temple of the convent in the beginnings
of the 19th century. In 1980 the framed painting of the Agii Tessarakonta Martyres,
which is dated back to the 13th century, was stolen. Today in the convent are
kept various heirlooms and letters, one of which is the letter (a copy to be precise)
describing all the privileges of the monastery (which were the main reason why
all nearby monasteries wanted to be incorporated with the monastery of Agii Tessarakonta
Martyres). Also 82 handwriten documents exist in the the historical registry of
Sparti as well as various
older books.
The main chapel of the monastery (the Katholic) is a cross like church
with a cupola and honors the memory of the Agii Tessarakonta Martyres (Saint Tessarakonta
Martyrs). The monks in the monastery are mainly occupied with hagiography and
agriculture.
The main chapel of the monastery (the Katholic) is structured like
a cruciform with a dome (just like Agioritika) and honors the memory of the fallen
on the lake Sebastias Tessarakonta Martyres. In addition there are several holly
relics of several Saints. The monks nowadays are occupied with agriculture and
hagiography.
There are guestrooms in the convent for the convenience of the visitors.
Quite recently with the supervision of the Committee of Byzantine Antiques and
with the complete support of the Organization for the Employment of the Work Force,
parts of the monastery have been preserved and restored.
The monastery hosts the student camping associations of the Iera
Mitropolis of Monambasia and Sparti. It is indeed worthwhile to attend one
of the liturgies in the monastery. Days of festivity are the 9th May (Zoodochos
Pigi) and the 9th November (St Nektarios).
This text is cited Apr 2003 from the Municipality of Therapnes URL below, which contains image.
MONI AGION THEODORON (Monastery) VYTINA
MONI AGIOU NIKOLAOU KALTEZON (Monastery) VALTETSI
Tel: +30 2710 581347
MONI BOURA (Monastery) FALESSIA
Tel: +30 27910 61248
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