Few experiences in nature can match a walk in the Strofylia Forest, the silence interrupted only by the sounds of birds and insects. Also great for birdwatching, especially in spring, when thousands of migrating birds reach Kotychi Lagoon. Don’t miss the opportunity for a swim at Kalogria, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. (www.strofylianationalpark.gr)
© Olga Charami
The most important sanctuary of the ancient Greek world and birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia has the ability to captivate visitors for hours. A location of indescribable aura that elegantly blossoms in spring, it features the remains of temples, administrative and secular buildings, sports facilities, as well as two excellent museums, the Olympic Games and Archaeological museums, presenting terrific exhibits.
Three Gothic vaulted arches are all that remain of the Aghia Sophia Church in Andravida, once a splendid, three aisle basilica where – it is said – Dominican friars prayed, local barons met and the great council of Achaea made decisions. Today, the arches provide valuable information about Gothic architecture in Greece under Frankish rule and lend a singular charm to the small town.
© Olga Charami
The strongest fortress of the Franks in the Peloponnese was built to protect the capital of the Principality of Achaea, Andravida, and the port town of Glarentza. In its museum you can see finds from Glarentza and an exhibition on the life of the Frankish knights and the inhabitants of the Morea during the period of Latin occupation. (Tel.: +30 26320.950.33)
© Olga Charami
The ancient city had always enjoyed great status but it flourished most during the Early Roman period because of its role in the organization of the Olympic Games. At the extensive archaeological site you can see the remains of the ancient agora and the impressive theater, parts of the city and cemeteries. There is also a well-appointed museum.
(Tel.: +30 26220.414.15)
Olga Charami | October 9th, 2015
Ilia is home to Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic games and the place where the torch flame is still lit after an elaborate ceremony using the rays of the sun. But there’s much more than sporting history to be found in the region. Ilia is also home to a mix of unusual archaeology, including the remains of a Gothic church, as well as beautiful beaches and forest. The nearby port of Kyllini acts as a doorway to the Ionian islands.
Few experiences in nature can match a walk in the Strofylia Forest, the silence interrupted only by the sounds of birds and insects. Also great for birdwatching, especially in spring, when thousands of migrating birds reach Kotychi Lagoon. Don’t miss the opportunity for a swim at Kalogria, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. (www.strofylianationalpark.gr)
© Olga Charami
The most important sanctuary of the ancient Greek world and birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia has the ability to captivate visitors for hours. A location of indescribable aura that elegantly blossoms in spring, it features the remains of temples, administrative and secular buildings, sports facilities, as well as two excellent museums, the Olympic Games and Archaeological museums, presenting terrific exhibits.
Three Gothic vaulted arches are all that remain of the Aghia Sophia Church in Andravida, once a splendid, three aisle basilica where – it is said – Dominican friars prayed, local barons met and the great council of Achaea made decisions. Today, the arches provide valuable information about Gothic architecture in Greece under Frankish rule and lend a singular charm to the small town.
© Olga Charami
The strongest fortress of the Franks in the Peloponnese was built to protect the capital of the Principality of Achaea, Andravida, and the port town of Glarentza. In its museum you can see finds from Glarentza and an exhibition on the life of the Frankish knights and the inhabitants of the Morea during the period of Latin occupation. (Tel.: +30 26320.950.33)
© Olga Charami
The ancient city had always enjoyed great status but it flourished most during the Early Roman period because of its role in the organization of the Olympic Games. At the extensive archaeological site you can see the remains of the ancient agora and the impressive theater, parts of the city and cemeteries. There is also a well-appointed museum.
(Tel.: +30 26220.414.15)
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