Monemvasia - A City of the Gods in Greece

Monemvasia is a rocky island located off the east coast of Peloponnese, Greece, which is connected to the mainland by a small bridge. The island was formed by an earthquake in 375 AD and is about 300 meters wide and one kilometer long. Its walled city is remarkably romantic and nestled in the shadow of the imposing rock, making it one of Greece's hidden gems.

The town of Monemvasia is a living museum of Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian history dating back to the 13th century. The island was initially settled on top of the plateau, which is now called the "upper city", and gradually expanded downhill. Monemvasia's exceptionally well-defended position made it a powerful city during the Byzantine Empire, one of the great trading centers of the Byzantine world and an important trading port, with a population of 40,000.

Monemvasia was settled in the 6th century by inhabitants of ancient Laconia who sought refuge from the Slavic invaders who dominated much of Greece between 500 and 700 AD. In the following centuries, the island changed hands several times, between Venetians and Turks, until it was liberated during the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century. The name Monemvasia is derived from two Greek words, mone and emvasia, which mean "single entrance" and refer to the narrow passageway that is the only way into the city.

In the 18th century, Monemvasia declined until it was rediscovered by tourists in the 1970s. Today, the island is a popular destination for tourists looking for a unique and authentic Greek experience. With its cobbled streets and ancient buildings, the walled city of Monemvasia is a historical and cultural treasure worth visiting for anyone wanting to learn more about Greece's rich history.

Credits: Alex Varvakis