The tiny island of Monemvasia, just off (and connected via a bridge to) mainland Peloponnese, is home to a charming medieval castle town. A popular weekend destination, the little town is calm but all but dull, with plenty of shops, tavernas, and good hotels to choose from in Kato Poli (Lower Town). Ano Poli (Upper Town), which towers above, on the other hand, was gradually deserted in the years following the second period of Venetian rule (1685-1715).
Today, to visit the ruins of the old settlement and the 12th century temple of Aghia Sophia, tourists can climb the hill via a steep path. However, according to a recent statement from the Greek Culture Ministry, it will soon be much easier to reach the island’s peak. While walking will still be the only way to discover the island, as no cars can enter through the gates onto the narrow cobblestone paths, a cable car is to be constructed to bring visitors up the hill.
“Universal accessibility to monuments and archaeological sites, particularly those which record high numbers of visitors, is a priority for the Culture and Sports Ministry,” minister Lina Mendoni said in a statement.
“Monemvasia, apart from its unique historical and archaeological significance, is an important destination. The cable car will facilitate, not just access to the upper quarters and the temple of Aghia Sophia (whose renovations have been heavily supported by the ministry) but will allow people with disabilities and, more generally, people with difficulties to approach the significant monuments of the castle town,” she added.
In addition to its main function as transportation, we expect the cable car to offer an enjoyable experience in itself, providing beautiful views of the castle town from a new angle. It will also allow for emergency services to rapidly reach Ano Poli if needed.
The construction of the cable car was included in the Culture Ministry’s program with the European Recovery and Resiliency Fund, and has been budgeted at 6,800,360 euros.
With information from ekathimerini.com.
