The peninsula of Peloponnese can nearly be classified as an island, due to the Corinth Canal which was finally finished in the 19 th century, divides the peninsula from the mainland. The canal with its sheer cliffs on either side, is a spectacular sight, here you can see cruise ships being towed by tugs through the canal. The peninsula has an area of 21,439 square kilometres, the geography of the region ranges from high mountains to fertile plains. Peloponnese is divided in to seven provinces each with its own rich history. Traces of human influences on the island go back to 100,000 BC. The region has also had a turbulent past, rivalry between Athens and Sparta led to the Peloponnesian War which led to the decline of Ancient Greece. Invasions by the Romans and other invaders have left their mark on the region. Take a trip around the local villages and towns each with its own history, with their small squares and tavernas serving local food and wines, you will be sure of a good welcome.

Corinth

Ancient Corinth , the ruins of this once great town 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 had been killed by Artimis.

Modern or new Corinth 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.

Loutraki

Over the canal and lying on the slopes of the Gerania Mountains , famous for its mineral waters Loutraki is a popular 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 .

Mycenae

An ancient royal residence surrounded by huge walls, entrance is through the Lion Gate which symbolises the power of the kings of Mycenae . Six shaft graves can be seen here that were part of the Royal cemetery. Inside the Palace are several houses, outside the walls are several beehive tombs the largest is called the Treasury of Atreus. Most of the artefacts which included items of gold and ivory can be seen at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens .

Argos

Along with Thebes , Argos was the most powerful city-states in Ancient Greece. Today it the regions centre of agriculture and trade.

Tiryns

About 8km from Argos , are the ruins of Tiryns this ancient palace with its secret stairways, tunnels and underground cisterns, is surround by a huge 10m thick walls. This is part of the mythical kingdom of Eurytheus , where Heracles was commanded to carry out his 12 labours.

Nafplion

Nafplion was the capital of Modern Greece before Athens . With the old fortress on the summit of Palamidi, looking down on the modern town, with it charm and narrow streets, which in the summer are filled with tourists. The town has retained its unique atmosphere due to its historical landmarks and neoclassical architecture; these include the countries first parliament building. Lemon and orange groves are in abundance here and their fragrance floats over the town. Relax in one of the many cafes that line the seafront, and admire the small fort called Bourdzi in the bay.

The mountains of Corinthia

The mountains 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 , and is very popular area for mountaineers.

Patras

The regions capital and is one of the most important cities in Greece , with its transportation links to the Ionian islands and Italy . The city comprises of the upper and the lower parts, with its design, parks and squares the city feels very unique. The Cathedral of St. Andrew, with its magnificent dome in the lower town is a majestic sight. Walking up the Trion Navarchon street you will come to Psila Alonia, (the balcony), a large square which offers views over the city. Over the city stands the remains of an old Ventian castle, here the grounds have been made into park. Patras Carnival which is held in the early in the spring attracts thousands. The city has the usual array of tavernas, cafes and pastry shops where you can take a rest, and enjoy the watching the locals and visitors going about their daily lives. Taking the coastal road from Corinth to Patras, you drive through one quaint village after another each offers something for tourist, whether that is an ancient ruin, church, or a sandy beach. Take time to stop and explore.

Kalavrita

From the fertile fields below to rugged mountains the area has a host of charming villages. From Halandritsa with its old castle, churches and bell towers, to the hamlets of Kalanos, Kalanistra and Mihas, the area is a popular tourist destination. At the monastery in Flamboura, there is a Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary, with a rather special feature; wherever you stand you get the feeling that the Virgins eyes are following you, (spooky!!). Take a trip on the funicular railway the runs from Diakofto to Helmos, it runs through deep gorge and then up the steep mountain with spectacular nature. With stops along the way at Trekilla and Zahlorou, you reach Helmos at an altitude of 750m. On the main peak of Helmos lies the ski centre, with two runs one from 1,800m.one from 2,440m.From the ridge Naraidorachi you get wonderful views over the most of Peloponnese . From her you descend to the River Styx, according to legend it is the gateway to Hades, it is known by the locals as “Mavroneri” (Black Water) because of the colour in the depths of the ravine where it flows.

Mega Spelio

From the villages of Trapeza or Zahlorou you come to the fantastic monastery of Mega Spileo, at 1,000m. The monastery is one of best known in Greece , with a backdrop of towering cliffs, the monastery rises up eight storeys. Many fires at the monastery have destroyed the original buildings along with priceless documents stored in the centuries old library. The buildings have been rebuilt after a disastrous fire in 1934. The wonderful icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Christ, said to be painted by St. Luke escaped damage and can be seen in the cave behind the church where it was discovered in 342 AD. The museum has many fine Holy relics and artefacts. The monastery has an atmosphere of tranquillity, so different from our bustling life in the modern world.

Kastria

Near the village is the cave of the lakes, entering through a narrow passage which brings you out into a cavern 2km. long. Small lakes formed by natural dams, small waterfalls, stalagmites and stalactites along with the colours and huge boulders, fire the imagination.

Pirgos

Capital of the province Eleia is an agricultural and trading centre known for its neoclassical buildings. During the evening the locals stroll to the main square, to sit in the cafes, tavernas which line the square to take a drink or two and exchange gossip.

Olympia .

Lying between the rivers Alphios and Kladeos, stands ancient Olympia . Legend has it that the games started in 1000 BC, and were dedicated to Hippodameia, the daughter of King Oinomaus on her marriage to Pelops. In 776 BC the games were rededicated to Zeus. This date marks the first Olympiad, and afterwards the games were held every four years, athletes came from all the Greek city-states to compete. The games at the time held not only athletic games but artistic and literary competitions These games were stopped in 393AD, and it was not until the 1896, that the Frenchman Pier de Coubertin revived the games in Olympia, and since then every four years a torch bearer sets out from Olympia, carrying the flame around the world to where the games are to be held.

There are many archaeological sites around Olympia from these earlier games; standing in the shade near Nero’s house is the monument containing the heart of Pier de Coubetin, the founder of the Modern Olympics. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia has many fine exhibits; nearby in the modern village of Olympia lies the Museum of the Olympic Games, it has exhibits connected to the history of the Olympic Games.

Sparta

Founded in the 9 th century by the Dorian’s, it developed into the most powerful military city in Greece . Political rivalry between Athens and Sparta , resulted in the Peloponnesian War (431-404BC). The ruins in Sparta are from the Roman and Byzantine periods, and do not reflect the importance of this once powerful city. Today modern Sparta is a thriving tourist centre.

Mistras

Once a fortress of the Byzantine Empire , Mistras lies 6km from Sparta , and consists of palaces, monasteries and churches from the 13 th century Frankish occupation of the Peloponnese . The whole area gives the visitor some idea of the glorious past that once thrived here.

Kalamata

Capital of Messina Province , a large commercial town, with its dominating castle overlooking the town. The old city is below the castle, situated here is the convent of Kalograies where the nuns weave the Kalamata silk for which the city is famous for. In the church of Agii Apostoli , the Greek Revolution against the Turks was declared in 1821. Concerts and other cultural events are held in the amphitheatre of the castle. Along the seafront restaurants serve all kinds of culinary delights to tempt the palate.

Pilos

The seaside town known also as Navoroni is the site of the famous naval battle during the war of independance, where ships from the combined fleets of England , Russia and France , destroyed the Turkish-Egyptian fleet. The villages of Methoni and Koroni have medieval castles which are worth visiting. To the north of Pilos in the village of Chora lies the Palace of Nestor , the wise old king, who with the Archains, campaigned against Troy The palace which was destroyed by fire in 1200BC, the remains of the impressive throne can be seen along with the monumental entrance.

Yithion

The ancient port and naval base of Sparta , and is reputed to be the site where Paris and Helen of Troy fled to Egypt . The town is an ideal base from which to explore the district, and the Caves of Diros.

Monemvasia

This small village with its causeway to the massive rock, rising out of the sea has been called the Gibraltar of Greece. With its small cobbled lanes, a medieval Acropolis and the small church of Aghia Sofia overlooking the sea.

Epidavros

Here in idyllic landscape lies the Theatre of Epidavros, and it is the best preserved theatre in Greece . Built in the 4 th century BC and still in use today this theatre is famous for its acoustics. Also here lies the 6 th century BC Sanctuary of Asklepios, the sanctuary was a healing centre, and pilgrims came from all over Greece to be treated here. Old prescriptions written on stone tablets can be seen in the small museum