The Unknown Peloponnese
Discover the unknown of the Eastern coast of the Peloponnese!
First stop: Ancient Lerna
Ancient Lerna Lerna is one of Greece's most important Bronze Age sites, and also where ruins of a Neolithic house and very intact fortification walls were found during excavations carried out by Americans during the 1950s. Inhabited from as early as 5500 BC (according to some, though others put the dates in the fourth or third millennium) it is also one of Greece's most ancient settlements. Early Bronze Age Lerna had substantial fortification walls and a palace or administrative center in a central building referred to as the "House of Tiles." This was a large two-story building with terracotta rooftiles and several storage rooms where clay sealings were found. In Classical times the area was claimed as home of the Nereids, place where Hercules slew the Lernaean Hydra and location of the entrance to Hades (through the Aleyonean Lake).
Second stop: Elona Monastery
The name "Elona" is a place name and nothing else. It is famous for its location. Built on a vertical and grand kokkinovracho (red rock), fascinates visitors by giving the impression of floating in chaos. The position offers excellent views of the surrounding area. Its foundation dates from around 1300 A.D. Historically, the monastery contributed to the struggle for independence both economically and by gathering weapons and hiding the Greek independence fighters! Visitor pass through an arched entrance and ascend wide stairs towards a 100m long corridor that has no equal, since on its left, there is “chaos”!
Third stop: Kosmas
There as a piece of the Arcadian land that keeps the excellence of the mountain alive unaltered. That is Kosmas. The journey goes between mountains and gorges, along the lips of amazing cliffs, creates an attractive impression and is a unique experience. The landscape all around is among the most authentic mountain landscapes offered by the Greek earth.
Fourth stop: Ancient Pyramid
An ancient pyramid like construction at Ellinikó, south of Argos. Also known as the Pyramid of Kenchreai.The pyramid has an entrance on the south-east side and it leads to a rectangular chamber. The date of construction is controversial, although it was most probably in the 4th century BC.
Fifth stop: Kefalari
Kefalari is a very attractive small village located just three kms from the city of Argos. One of the most beautiful characteristics of Kefalari is the River Erasinos and the amazing landscapes it offers. The River is adjacent to the Church of Zoodochos Pigi, under which it forms a very beautiful lake.The cave of Kefalari just at the side of the church is another interesting spot. This cave formerly functioned as a subterranean river channel. After archaeologists explored this cave, some ceramics from the Neolithic period were found, along with some other objects which provided proof of the fact that there were inhabitants in this area even before the époque.