@ Monemvasia

Monemvasia is one of the highlights on the Peloponnese through its position on a special island just off the coast.

Nowadays the island is connect by a small dam, but in medieval time there was a long bridge which had a draw bridge in the middle. This 1km long and 100m high island was the site of a powerful medieval fortress which was founded in 583 AD.

Reaching the upper gate

Many gates between the upper town and the lower town

View over the lower town

Mostly crumbled remains of the upper town ...

... only the main church still exists and was recently renovated

Some frescos could be recovered

The church of Hagia Sophia is now the highlight of the upper town

Walking to the top

Harbour ...

... and new town at the mainland

Cyclamen everywhere

Crocus Goulimyi - endemic to Greece

Turkish bath in the background

Giant fennel covers the hill - already dry in October 

Entrance to the upper town

Descending to the lower town

In the lower town many medieval houses have been restored and turned into hotels or apartments to rent. Little shops and many restaurants give this medieval town a lively atmosphere.

Main square at the lower town with the access to the upper town in the background

Narrow alleys

Lovely atmosphere at night

Parking for the night at the harbour