Korinthia

Korinthia is home to several important archaeological sites, as well as the modern engineering marvel of the Corinthian Canal. A visit to Korinthia isn’t complete without seeing the site of Ancient Corinth, where ongoing excavations take place, and trekking to the top of the overlooking mountain, to the site of Acrocorinth. I highly recommend the excellent archaeological museum at Isthmia, and there are beaches along the north coast

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.

 

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