At A Glance
Peloponnese, also called Peloponnesus, is a region of Greece famous in the modern era for being the birthplace of the Greek War of Independence and historically famous for having been the home of the Spartan civilization and site of the first Olympic Games. The region is now one of the most culturally significant in Greece and boasts some of the most popular tourist attractions. The largest travel guide book publisher in the world, Lonely Planet, voted Peloponnese as the number-one spot on their 2016 Best in Europe list.
Peloponnese is host to significant historical monuments and landmarks from its expansive history: great archaeological sites such as ancient Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tirynth; Byzantine churches, unique settlements, and amazing castles; natural beauties such as mountains, forests, rivers and caves surrounded by the sea; beautiful beaches, sandy and smooth coasts on the west — rocky on the east. These sights make this part of Greece ideal for holidays, touring, sports, and connecting to the history and culture. It’s no surprise that tourists flock to Peloponnese, especially in the summer, to enjoy a sight-filled and relaxing vacation.
Πελοπόννησος
Peninsula of Independence
Attractions
- Epidaurus Theater
- Palamidi Castle
- Mystras (Sparta)
- Simos Beach
- Voidokilia Beach
History
The region gets its name from the mythology of Pelos, the figure credited with the establishment of the Olympic Games. The legend tells of Pelos competing in a chariot race for the hand of a woman; the details of the legend include some shady dealings, but ultimately Pelos triumphs.
People settled in Peloponnese from the middle Paleolithic era (circa 100.000 years B.C.). After 2000 B.C. the first Greeks came to Peloponnese. A few centuries later, Mycenaea became the center of Greek world. Excavations verify the legend of Homeric Mycenaea, while the ruins in Pylos match the references for the well-known King Nestor's palace in west Peloponnese.
