Monemvasia Castle Town

Monemvasia is a medieval fortified town on a rock island off the east coast of the Laconia region of the Peloponnese, Greece, joined to the mainland by a short causeway. The name is often explained as meaning single entrance, which refers to the one gate in the wall facing the sea. The Byzantine town was founded in the sixth century and flourished as a trade centre, later passing through Frankish, Venetian and Ottoman control. Today the lower town is a car-free maze of stone lanes, arched passages, small squares and restored houses, many used as guesthouses, tavernas and craft shops. The main square contains the Church of Christos Elkomenos, the Mosque (now a museum) and a cannon. A zigzag path climbs to the Upper Town, now mostly in ruins, where the Church of Agia Sofia stands at the edge of a cliff above the sea. From the upper fortress, views extend across the Myrtoan Sea and the mainland coast. A visit of four to six hours covers the lower town, the climb and a meal, while staying overnight lets visitors see the town after day-trippers leave. Cars park on the mainland side or near the gate, and visitors walk the final stretch. The town is busiest from late morning to late afternoon in summer and on weekends, and it is quiet in the evening and early morning. Photographs work best from the causeway at sunrise or from the southern walls in late afternoon light. Footwear with grip is helpful on the worn stone.