The Region

Peloponnese is a geographical area of mainland Greece located in the southern part of the country. Its shape looks like the leaf of a plane tree and it is actually an island connected to the mainland of Greece in two spots: the Corinth Canal and the Bridge of Rio Antirio.

Peloponnese is surrounded by sea and has imposing mountains in the inland. Since ancient times, it has been an integral part of Greece and the terrain of many battles throughout Greek history.

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The name Peloponnese means the "island of Pelops". Pelops, or Pelopas, was considered an ancestor of the Atreus family, from whom descended the kings of Mycenae and King Agamemnon himself. Since the prehistoric times, many tribes came from the North and established villages in the region of Peloponnese. If the geographical position was good, these villages gradually developed into strong towns, like Mycenae, Sparta, and Pylos.

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Locations

Peloponnese is a wonderful region to visit any time of the year. It has interesting archaeological sites, traditional villages, and fabulous beaches. Apart from Olympia, Epidaurus and Mycenae are the most important archaeological sites in Greece, top destinations for holidays in Peloponnese are Nafplion, Monemvasia, Gythio, and Pylos.