There is an entire medieval town hidden behind a giant rock

There are many countries and cities around the world that I have been lucky to have traveled to. However there are many more I haven’t and this little Greek town is one of them. Hope you enjoy the info and beautiful photos of this interesting island.

Photo Credit: http://www.monemvasia.gr/

There is a town hidden behind a giant rock, the name of it is Monemvasia a municipality in Laconia, Greece. Monemvasia was separated from the mainland by an earthquake in 375 AD. The majority of the island’s area is a plateau about 100 metres above sea level, and the town of the same name is built on the slope to the south-east of the rock, overlooking Palaia Monemvasia bay. Many of the streets are narrow and fit only for pedestrian and donkey traffic. A small hamlet of about 10 houses lies to the northwest.

Photo Credit: http://www.monemvasia.gr/

The town and fortress were founded in 583 by inhabitants of the mainland seeking refuge from the Slavic and the Avaric invasion of Greece. From the 10th century AD, the town developed into an important trade and maritime centre. The fortress withstood the Arab and Norman invasions in 1147; farm fields that fed up to 30 men were tilled inside the fortress.

Photo Credit: http://www.monemvasia.gr/

In 1971, Monemvasia became linked with the rest of the outside world through a bridge on the western side that connects to Greek National Road 86 (GR-86).

In more recent history, the town has seen a resurgence in importance with increasing numbers of tourists visiting the site and the region. The medieval buildings have been restored, and many of them converted to hotels.

For the past few years, on July 23rd there is an independence day celebration in the main port. Speeches are made and the story of Tzannetakis Grigorakis, and his men, is recounted in both Greek and English. Inhabitants and visitors can gather to watch as a ship, built every year, is filled with pyrotechnics and set on fire.

Definitely an impressive place full of natural beauty and history. Hope I can visit it one day.

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