Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a town and municipality in Laconia, Greece. The town is located on a small island off the east coast of the Peloponnese.

A 200m causeway links the mainland town of Yefira to the Kastro (castle). The Kastro is divided into a lower and an upper town. Many ruins of the original houses and churches can be found in the lower town including the Church of the Elkomenos Christ (Christ Dragged).

The oldest church is St Paul’s, built in 956, and today houses the museum. The whitewashed Our Lady of Hrisafittisa, built in the 16th century can be found on the eastern edge of the lower town.

High above, castle walls protect the upper town on the summit where remains of Byzantine houses, public buildings and a vast cistern can be seen along with St Sophia, a Byzantine church. A fortified path from the upper town leads to the Fortress of Goulas overlooking the town. It is entered by a tunnel that still retains its ironbound gates.

The main street of the old town of Monemvasia, has a variety of products, set within traditionally decorated stores selling olive oil, olives, wine, sweets, honey, herbs from the surrounding mountains, cheese and cured meats.

There are a variety of beaches in Monemvasia, some easily accessible by road, others small, hidden-away coves. All have crystal clean waters, some are sand, some pebbles and many have been awarded Blue Flag status. Choose between the east coast, on the Myrtoon Sea, the west coast on the Gulf of Laconia or Cape Maleas and the beaches of Vatika.

There is a wide variety on offer in local restaurants. Crayfish, lobster and red mullet as well as Greek favourites Moussaka, Greek salad and 'souvlaki' (grilled skewered meat or vegetables) can all be found on menus.

Cruise ships generally anchor and tender passengers ashore. Shuttle buses are often available from the port area to the Lower Town.

No cars are allowed on the island, transport is either by donkey or on foot.