Travel Guide Peloponnese with travel tips for Peloponnese
Peloponnese is a big peninsula in southern Greece that looks like an island because of the Corinth Canal built in 1893. Its inland is mountainous. The Corinth Isthmus Bridge connects it to the mainland. There are numerous archaeological sites like the Mycenae and Olympia.
History
It has been inhabited since ancient times. In the medieval era it was called Morea because of the thickly cultivated mulberry trees for the silk industry. In classical antiquity Peloponnese was central to the business of Greece and the site of some ferocious battles. Rome conquered it in 146 BC and subsequently the Byzantine Empire, the Franks, the Venetians, and the Ottoman Turks ruled it.
Arts and Museums
The Olympia Museum displays ancient sculpture, helmets, and shields. The Museum of Mycenae displays pieces from the late Hellenistic Period to the Classical Age. Pylos boasts the Nestor’s Place and Museum. The Sparta ruins are a theatre, stadium, and the Athena sanctuary. During the winter there are numerous festivals in Patras that include parades, fireworks and masquerade balls. The Ancient Drama Festival is a huge attraction. Holiday villas and apartments are available for tourists. Monoemvasia holds several festivals including the Liberation of Monemvasia Festival.
Nightlife
The Epidaurus Dinner Theatre Cruise is available from Athens. One of the largest casinos in Europe is located in Loutraki at the Club Hotel. Tolos has several discos and it jumps in the summer with tavernas and cafes open. Greek dancing like the Tsakonikos and Kalamatianos can be viewed at club venues and in restaurants. There are many clubs, bars, and dance scenes in Peleponnese.
How to get there
Ferries are scheduled from Crete to various cities on Peleponnese. Ferries connect all of the islands and the peninsula. The major airports close to Peleponnese are Kalamatra and Athens. The traveler can take cars, buses, and trains from these airports to Peleponnese.