EXCURSION TO THE ANCIENT PATHS OF THE PELOPONNESE
Top Visits
- The UNESCO-listed ancient amphitheater of Epidaurus
- Lions’ gate in Mycenae
- The Cyclopean Walls in Mycenae
- The Palace & tomb of king Agamemnon in Mycenae
- Nafplio
Discover all the treasures of the region and even more with Athens Vip Transports!
The Isthmus of Corinth is the first major landmark along the way, less than an hour from Athens. The artificial canal, crossed over by car and train bridges connecting Peloponnese to the rest of of Greece, is a well-known and impressive site.
The region we are headed to is one of the most historical in the country. The Peloponnese and the region of Argolis have been in the center of events throughout antiquity, from the great kingdoms of ancient Argos, Mycenae and Tyrins, to the classical city-state of Corinth, sights like the Theatre of Epidaurus and locations of importance to the Peloponnesean war. Even in modern times, the area was pivotal in the Greek War of Independence and it also houses Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece.
The theatre of Epidaurus or else the Theatre of Asklepieion was built around 340-330 BC. It is the most famous of Greece’s ancient amphitheaters, a miracle of acoustics used to this day for high-profile performances. The monument was constructed in honour of Asclepius (father of medicine) with its main purpose to hold musical, singing and drama competitions. There were also drama plays that were included in Asclepius’ worship.
A few kilometers further, you will find Mycenae. More than three thousand years ago, it was the greatest center and namesake of the Mycenean civilization and to this day its titanic “cyclopean” walls and the magnificent Gate of Lions capture the imagination. The city’s legend is further tied to Homer’s epics and the Trojan War as the home of king Agamemnon, the leader of the Greek forces.
Nearby is the picturesque city of Nafplion, banked by its impressive fortresses and looking out at the sea. Once a major city of the region, it was one of the strongest defensive positions for the Venetians, Turks and Greeks throughout centuries of turmoil and was ultimately chosen as the first capital of Greece following its liberation from the Ottoman Empire. Its castles still stand to this day, along with a number of other monuments, such as Greece’s first parliament and the church of Saint Spyridon, where the country’s first governor Ioannis Kapodistrias was assassinated. Walking by the seaside here, with a view of the small Mpourtzi fort, is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
Experience a trip to the past of ancient Greece with the luxury and comfort of Athens Vip Transports!
