The imposing mass of Monemvasia’s rock is connected to the mainland bya narrow strip of land and a bridge 130 m long. Due to this sole possibilityof its connection with the mainland, Monemvasia got its name (soleentrance). Throughout its history and due to its geopolitical position, it wasconquered by the Franks, the Byzantines, the Venetians, the Pope and theTurks.
Within its medieval walls, there is one of the most well-preserved andvibrant castle-cities in Greece. Dozens of churches, winding cobbled alleys,mansions, fountains and turkish baths, are preserved to this day, toconvey the atmosphere of another era. In the Castle, there are 40churches, including the most famous ones, such as PanagiaChrysafitissa, Myrtidiotissa, Panagia tis Kritikias, Agios Nikolaos,Agios Stefanos, etc. Prepare for hiking, since there are no carscirculating within the Castle. The main cobbled path, starting from thegate, will lead you to the most significant sights but also to the restaurants,bars and shops. From the central square with the cannon, thechurch of the Christ Elkomenos and the Archaeological Museum,begins the cobbled path to the Upper Castle or Goula, the secondsettlement. Ascend the trail among pomegranates and date palms, just forthe view from the walls of the Upper Castle, in front of the imposingchurch of Agia Sofia. To rest a bit from your walk, make a stop at"Byzantio Café" and try homemade pastries. The new city, Gefyra, is anewly built beach resort, with a popular sandy beach and views of theCastle.
Cobblestones in Portelo under the walls, or sandy beach overlooking theCastle Bridge? If the cobblestones and dives do not scare you, try thesmall platform in Portelo, the unique sea gate of the walls and try seakayak. In Xifias, another beautiful sandy beach or in Pori beach, next tothe sailing boats that prefer it, swim and let yourself sunbathe. If you areactive swimmers, discover the richness of the underwater world, with amask and a snorkel. When the time comes for a good meal, you will go to“Matoula”, for rooster with pasta or to “Kanoni” for traditional “saitia”,tasteful aromatic herb pies, baked in cast iron and made only here, in theSouthern Peloponnese. For super fresh seafood, you will go to “Asterias”or the smell of freshly cooked fish will lead you to the “Scorpios” fishtavern. Do not leave Monemvasia without trying, but also take with you itsfamous macaroons, “melitinia” and “sasoumades”. The famousMalvasian Wine would be a wonderful gift for your friends.
Monemvasia, Malvazia for the Venetians, “Menexe Kaleci” (Castleof Flowers) for the Turks. Or the “Flower fragrant Castle City” ofthe South, welcomes you nostalgically in a small table of a shadycourtyard, or in a balcony overlooking the endless blue of MyrtooSea, to offer you, through carelessness and relaxation, uniqueimages of bygone eras.
