You would have come across charming towns set on mountain slopes or high cliffs, but have you ever visited a town that is entirely carved on the side of a rock? Well, that’s Monemvasia for you.
The castle town of Monemvasia is located in the Laconia region of Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. It is set in a small island of its own, which houses this medieval town and the towering cliffs on which it is carved. The island was separated from the mainland during an earthquake and is today connected by a short 200m causeway. As there is only one road to reach this town, it was named Monemvasia, which means ‘single passage’. From the mainland, you can only see the cliffs and the town is visible only after you curve around the cliffs.
History
Monemvasia was founded when people from the mainland wanted an escape from the foreign invasions that were happening in Peloponnese at that time. They built the fortress in 583 and its naturally strategic location helped to withstand multiple invasions from the Normans and the Arabs. Over the years, Monemvasia saw Frankish, Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian settlers and it also developed commercial importance as a chief producer of Malmsey wine.
Today, the town is a popular romantic destination in the country and also a refreshing getaway from routine life.
Castle and Town
The fortified town is divided into upper and lower towns. While the upper town contains the ruins of the fortress, the lower town is a network of cobbled alleys. The Agora is the central street of the lower town and is lined with tavernas, cafes and workshops. Walking through the maze of beautiful streets you will come across century-old churches, mansions and lovely arches, along with great views of the sea beyond. From the lower town, you can descend to Portello, a gate that opens to the sea from where you can dive into the sea and swim. The path to Portello then continues until the 19th-century lighthouse, which is a great place to watch the sunset.
A steep path from the lower town will lead you to the upper town where you can visit the ruins of the castle and Venetian mansions. Though the climb here is quite challenging, you will be rewarded with splendid views of the lower town and the sea beyond.
Churches
The 12th-century Agia Sophia church is set atop a cliff near the upper town. It is one of the best Byzantine churches in Greece and is located on the town’s highest point, offering splendid views.
The Church of Elkomenos Christos, from the 6th century, is located in the heart of the lower town and depicts several structures related to the Crucifixion of Christ and also displays Byzantine elements. Panagia Chrysafitissa Church, on the edge of the lower town is a 17th-century white-toned marvel that functions till date.
It is believed that there were once more than 40 churches in the town, out of which only a handful remain today.
Archaeological Museum
The small museum of Monemvasia is located near the Church of Elkomenos Christos in a 16th-century mosque. The building also served as a church and prison at various points. On its display, you will find artefacts from the town’s fortress and churches, pottery, cistern heads, ceramics and others.
Why should you visit?
This little town will take you back in time to the medieval ages with its fairytale setting. Monemvasia is an aesthetic treat that will leave you with captivating images for a lifetime.
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