The prefecture of Corinth covers an area of 2290
sq.km. Numerous archaeological sites show the growth and cultural
progress of Corinth . The ancient city of Acrocorinth is one of the
major sites to visit, as is The Sanctuary of Nemea. The prefecture
of Corinth is ideal for holidays since there are many superb beaches
and resorts along with small inland villages to explore.The mountains
of Corinthia have a host of charming and historical villages, from
Nemea where grapevines are cultivated in abundance. Kastania at an
altitude of 920m this charming village is a popular winter resort.
Among the tree-lined slopes of Ziria, at an altitude of 1,300m lies
the village of Trikala , very popular area for mountaineers.
Corinth
: Modern
or new Corinth the capital of the prefecture, was built in 1928
after an earthquake destroyed the old town, is a peaceful town
with many good hotels and therefore makes it a good base from which
to explore the area. The Folk Museum in the town has on display
many costumes and bridal gowns covering three centuries, and items
of local metalwork, embroidery and carvings.
Ancient Corinth : The
ruin of this once great city lies on the slope of the Acrocorinth
Mountain overlooking, the modern town of Corinth . There is a mixture
of Greek and Roman ruins here. On the summit of the mountain stood
the acropolis of Corinth , this was the largest fortification of
the region. Subsequent invaders have built upon the ruins of the
fortress in their claims for supremacy. At the summit, there are
a number of shrines and temples, the largest being the Temple of
Aphrodite, Further down is the Peirene Spring and according to
legend, Peirene was transformed into a spring by the tears she shed,
when she heard at her son, Artimis had been killed
Loutraki: Over the canal and lying
on the slopes of the Gerania Mountains , famous for its mineral
waters Loutraki is a fashionable resort. Nearby is the Lagoon of
Vouliagmeni, which is ideal for all kinds of water sports. Further
along from the lagoon is the temple of Hera .
Isthmia: Along
with Olympia , Delphi and Nemea , Isthmia was one of the sites
of the Panhellenic Games. Athletic competitions were organised in
tribute to Poseidon, the god of the sea, athletes competed here from
582 BC until 146 BC. On the site are remains of the Sanctuary of
Poseidon, and a Roman theatre. The site museum contains items from
these athletic games.
Nemea
: Mainly an agricultural
town, and has long been famous for its wines. Production of wine
started in the district in the Mycenaean times, visit a couple
of vineyards, see the production of wines and sample the products.
Ancient
Nemea : Just
to the north of the village are the remains of ancient Nemea
, also an important site for the Panhellenic games. Games held
here were in honour to Zeus, the remains of 4 th century Temple
of Zeus , bathhouses and other buildings are still visible. The
stadium, 500m away once connected by a sacred road, where today
the starting line and distance markers remain, as does the graffiti
etched into the wall off the tunnel used by the athletes. Legend
says that ancient Nemea was the site of the first trial of Hercules,
where he slew the lion sent by Hera to destroy Nemea . The lion,
(Leo) along with the other signs of the zodiac represent the twelve
trials of Hercules.