Soothe your soul with 5+1 leisurely activities at the village of Ancient Corinth

Editing Katerina Karsioti

Within short distance of the capital of  Greece, Athens, as well as other cities of the Peloponnese, the village of Ancient Corinth, seems the place to be during weekend. With its distinctive look, it’s one of the most beautiful and unique areas in the region.

Visiting Ancient Corinth, it’s like taking a time machine back to past centuries. The village is a charming destination that flaunts both the old and the new. It will win you over with its quaint taverns, narrow streets, and old buildings.

You’ll find a calm atmosphere and plenty of shopping opportunities. You’ll have the chance to visit the famous archaeological museum, the site of the Roman Forum, the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the Baths of Aphrodite, the imposing castle of Acrocorinth, and plenty of other findings of the past. 

It’s the majestic place that offers something for everyone, and known as one of Peloponnese’s most beautiful destinations for good reason. Whether you’re looking for a culture fix, rolling hills or delicious food, this village has it all.

           

1.  The fascinating history of the Castle of Acrocorinth

 The Castle of Acrocorinth has a rich history that dates towards the end of the 7th- 6th century B.C., when Corinth experienced its first great prosperity by establishing rich colonies, such as Corfu and Syracuse.

It rises in the South West of the village and resulted in the fortified acropolis of ancient, medieval and post - medieval Corinth. The historic fortress is built high on an impressive hill with an altitude of 575 meters (1.889 feet).

Visit the castle, explore the different gates and learn more about Ancient Corinth’s history. The lush green spaces and rolling hills of Acrocorinth make it the perfect destination for the outdoorsy type who loves to be at one with nature.

         

2.   The prestigious Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth

  Head to the most prestigious museum of Greece, where you can come face to face with artifacts of important periods in Greek history.

The Museum of Ancient Corinth was built in 1932 to house the numerous objects brought to light by the archaeological excavations.

Its construction was undertaken by the American School of Classical Studies, thanks to a donation of Ada Small Moore.  It was extended towards the east in 1950 and in later years went under large-scale renovations allowing space within the museum to be organized around two atriums.

It contains collections of prehistoric finds, various items ranging from the Geometric to the Hellenistic period, Roman and Byzantine finds, excavation finds from the Asklepieion of Corinth, and a collection of sculptures and inscriptions. 

 

3. The glorious temple of Apollo and the well-preserved Roman Forum

Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece. It was a city-state on the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow stretch of land that joins the Peloponnese to the mainland of Greece. The archaeological site is situated on the northern foothills of the Acrocorinth hill.

Excavations by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens and recent excavations conducted by the Greek Ministry of Culture have brought to light the Roman Forum, temples, fountains, porticoes, baths, latrines and various other monuments.

The archaeological site includes the Diolkos of the Corinthian Isthmus, the Temple of Apollo, the Fountain of Peirene, the Asklepieion and the Lerna Fountain, the Odeum, the Amphitheater, the Temple of Dimitra and Kore, the Theater, the Glauke Fountain, the Temple of Octavia and the Bema of St. Paul.

 

 

         4. A walk through the alleys for souvenirs

 Most of you, during your holidays, you are looking for markets and souvenir shops; souvenirs that will remind you of the beautiful days you spent.

For your walk through the local   souvenir shops, we suggest you to start off from the exit of the archaeological site.

You’ll have the opportunity to visit the pottery shops, in order to learn the secrets of this unique ancient art, as well as find local traditional products. You can also discover the best sea view.

5. The Corinthian food scene

 Ancient Corinth has an underrated food scene. You will find cozy taverns, cafés and restaurants. Not to mention the incredible market where you can grab a tasty, affordable lunch.

And while you’re in the taverns, you have to try the Oximeli, a drink based on the Galinos recipe, as well as taste the marvelous olive oil Koroneiko and Manaki on the famous Greek salad ‘horiatiki’.

Or if you have a sweet tooth, try the black raisin in both sweet and savory recipes. And you simply cannot start your morning with a traditional breakfast with the local and very tasty petimezi and honey.

6. A spectacular place to experience the sunset 

 Ancient Corinth got a creative spirit and charm to spare. One of the most gorgeous villages in all of the Peloponnese, this hilly place boasts impeccable views.

It has lots of idyllic   and stand-out spots where the sunset Ancient Corinthian style puts its best foot forward.