My only love – Peloponnese Peninsula
I close my eyes for a moment and mentally go to the Peloponnese peninsula – one of the most magical places I have ever visited! Every memory of it makes me smile and dream of returning to this heavenly place! No matter how many other tourist destinations in Greece I have visited, the Peloponnese peninsula will forever remain my only love!
A magical holiday in the Peloponnese
Beautiful views, excellent beaches, cozy bays, ancient monuments, delicious food and heavenly oranges – all this applies to the region, which in ancient times was called Morea, and is now called Peloponnese. Peloponnese is located in the southern part of the country, in summer there is a comfortable temperature of air and water, but the number of vacationers is many times less than in other regions of Greece.
According to Greek myths, Tantalus killed his son Pelops and invited the gods to try dishes prepared from his body. The gods were terrified and did not accept such a supper, but instead appealed to Hermes to revive Pelops. Thus Pelops was resurrected and also gained incredible strength and beauty. Peloponnese is also the birthplace of Beautiful Helen, the Olympics Games and ancient Sparta.
The pearl of the Western Peloponnese and the cradle of the Olympic Games is the ancient city of Olympia. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to see the first ancient stadium, where today, according to tradition, the Olympic flame is lit. The history of the famous Olympics is recorded in the Museum of the Olympic Games.
A popular tourist attraction is the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. Its exhibits are artifacts from different historical periods, starting from prehistoric times. The Archaeological Museum is famous for its unique collection of masterpieces of Greek sculpture and the reconstruction of marble pediments of the famous Temple of Zeus.
The peninsula is rich in attractions that will be interesting for pilgrims. The Byzantine Cathedral of Christ Elcomenos in Monemvasia, the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called in Patras, the secluded monastery of Mega Spileo – recognized architectural monuments and repositories of Christian sanctuaries.
It is believed that in Peloponnese you can try real Greek cuisine. This region was not conquered by the Ottomans! You should try fish dishes, seafood, and local bread. Most food is cooked with olive oil. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also preferred here, and homemade wine or grape vodka for drinks. Try the cheese and olive pies, the fragrant and incredibly juicy meat, the various sausages and beef, as well as dishes made from beans and artichokes. Pink jam, local raisins, yogurt with honey and all kinds of homemade sweets are just some of the culinary temptations you can enjoy! Near Sparta and Argos grow the most delicious sunny oranges!
Patras is the largest city in the region and an important port. At the same time, the third largest city in Corinth is better known to both tourists and Christian pilgrims – as the missionary Paul conducts his activities here.
Kalamata is famous for the best olives and butter made from them. Of interest is the art gallery and the many museums that tell about the history and culture of the region and the country. The main symbol of Kalamata is the temple of the Holy Apostles.
Almost every hotel has a good spa – so spend at least one evening to relax and time for yourself. And of course, what kind of vacation in Greece without beaches? The coast of the region is with pebbles and sand, but each beach will provide you a clean coastal line and bright turquoise sea.
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If you are on holiday in Peloponnese with children, pay attention to Kuruta Beach, which is located three kilometers from Amaliada – there is a park with water attractions. Other good beaches to choose from – you just have to decide which one is closer: Langvardos (Marafupoli), Arkudi (Killini village), Loutra Killinis (40 km from Pyrgos), Plaka and Candia (near Nafplion) , Caloria, which is located in Messenia, as well as Paralia Tyrou near the resort village of Tyros.
