Greece, history is overwhelming; archaeological sites are scattered all over the country and date back to long before our era.
During our tour of Greece in December 2022 and January 2023, we successively visit the complex of Olympia, the temple of Apollo Epicurius, Ancient Messini, Methoni Castle, (the medieval peninsula) Monemvasia, the theater of Epidavros, Midea fortress , the ancient Greek city of Mykines, Ancient Corinth, the city of Delphi and the Meteora monasteries.
The archeology of Greece
We have seen many archaeological sites in Italy and the ex-Yugoslav Balkan countries. The latter in Butrint, Albania, was beautiful with several historical features.
When you travel through Greece, you stumble over history. During our tour we see one brown sign after another and we are guaranteed to pass a lot of history.
With tips of archaeologist Angelo, whom we met in Olympia, and also guide René, who guided us online from Mani and later live, we choose the following historical places.
The complex of Olympia
The Olympic Games were held every 4 years in Archaia Olympia, ancient Olympia. Today this complex is “a collection of ancient stones” still reminiscent of that heroic time of Greek gods, temples and stadiums.
When we walk around here we imagine the crowds cheering on the athletes here thousands of years ago in honor of Hera and Zeus.
The Olympus Museum is accessible with the same ticket as the site, half price in winter for all sites we visit.
Objects have all been found at the site and have been minimally restored with respect for the ravages of time.
The Temple of Apollo Epicurius
When we visit the temple of Apollo Epicurius, it is completely shrouded in fog. Last night we spent the night in the parking lot in front of the entrance, so we got up early.
Because the temple is located at an altitude of 1,130 meters, morning fog lingers here for a long time, especially in autumn and winter. It obstructs our view during our visit, but also creates a mystical atmosphere.
The high location in a raw landscape has ensured that the temple has survived virtually intact for centuries. Nowadays the temple is protected from the elements with a huge tent. This adds to the mystical atmosphere on this crisp December morning.
Ancient Messini
Fortunately, the fog clears as we descend and the sun gains strength. Ancient Messini certainly impresses us as much as Olympia. Especially because we are almost alone and can look around freely everywhere.
It is still a bit drizzly, but with a coat on and the right shoes we discover the extensive grounds of the archaeological site. Those ancient Greeks probably didn’t always have radiant sun for their ceremonies and games 😉.
Methoni Castle
A very different experience from the previous sites is Methoni Castle. Although traces of very early development of this extremity of the Peloponnese have been discovered, we mainly see remains of a medieval fortress and heavy defensive walls. The holes of the attacks in the past are still clearly visible in the walls.
The medieval peninsula of Monemvasia
After our stay on the Mani peninsula, we travel further to the east of the Peloponnese. Monemvasia, formerly an island, now a peninsula thanks to a dam and a bridge, is also called the Mont Saint Michel of the South. The similarities we see, except for the island location, are the many tourist shops in the narrow streets and the fact that there are no vehicles in the town.
We walk through the town and enjoy the nice weather.
Then we venture the climb to the orthodox church and the old – completely dilapidated – city on top of the mountain.
We conclude our visit with a delicious meal at restaurant Oinomelo.
The Theater of Epidaurus
René, who has his own 4×4 tour company, shows us around Epidavros. This excavation is best known for its theatre, which has remained almost entirely original. We take the time to absorb the spectacular building with its rich history.
The remaining site is nicely situated in the countryside.
Midea Fortress
The fortress of Midea appears to be located near our overnight spot. No more than some old stones on a strategic hilltop, for us laymen. The hilltop offers a nice view of the area.
Ancient Mycenae Castle
The same day we drive to Mycenae. Actually also a castle on a hilltop, but much better preserved. The impressive lion’s gate,dating back to the 13th century BC, already gives us a taste of what we can expect further on the site.
The site has been made easily accessible with footpaths and a walking route. We can imagine that it can be quite busy here in the summer.
Many objects have been collected in the museum that were found on the spot.
Ancient Corinth
We drive through Ancient Corinth, literally. The archaeological site is located on both sides of the main road. From the road we can get an overview and we decide to skip this site.
The city of Delphi
We arrive in Delphi on a national holiday (one of many in Greece). Parking is along the main road, otherwise there is no parking, and everything is packed.
We decide to look for a campsite for the night and come back the next morning at opening time.
That is a good choice, the next morning we can park in front of the entrance and there are hardly any other visitors.
Once again we are gripped by the ancient city of Delphi. About 20 years ago we were here with our children, a beautiful memory. Especially the completeness of this city, which is built on the slope of mount Parnassos, surprises us. The photos only give an incomplete impression.
A number of unique pieces are also on display in the museum. We especially notice the horseman in all his fighting skills.
The Meteora Monasteries
Not very old, but one of the attractions of Greece, and rightly so. From the 14th century, 24 monasteries have been built on top of the landscape of rock pillars in northern Greece. Today, 6 monasteries are still in reasonable condition and a few monasteries are still inhabited by monastics.
We spend the night in the parking lot at guesthouse Arsenis. We eat a simple meal in the restaurant and can then spend the night safely and free of charge.
The next morning, it was cold last night and here and there the roads are frozen, we carefully drive around the monasteries. From the road you can see a number of monasteries beautifully. The ones we can visit, each monastery has its own opening hours, are somewhat commercial and there is not much that reminds of the long history.
The location of the monasteries is nothing short of spectacular. Some locations can only be reached on foot via a steep staircase and supplies must be hoisted up.
