THE ROMANTIC MEDIEVAL CITADEL OF MONEMVASIA

A particularly interesting and romantic place is the medieval Byzantine town of Monemvasia, located on a steep fortified island rising dramatically from the sea, and connected by a causeway to the mainland.

Impressive Monemvasia Island is known as the “Gibraltar of Greece”

Several churches here were built in the 12th century and still in-use, although during the long period of Turkish occupation they were used as mosques. Now many formerly ruined houses in the narrow cobbled lanes have been rebuilt as holiday homes, small hotels, tavernas and shops, while retaining all the former charm and character.
This was a substantial town of 40,000 people during the Middle Ages.
Part of the town’s violent history is that its Turkish inhabitants were massacred when they surrendered to the Greeks after a three month siege during the War of Independence.

Brian, Carol & Laurie with Envoy anchored stern-to the causeway to Monemvasia.

Medieval fortified village of Menemvasia

The romantic lanes of Monemvasia

Brian looking at local produce shop in Monemvasia

The church of Ayia Sofia on the island’s summit dates from the 12th century

Looking down on Monemvasia from the hilltop castle

We found this great little cove to moor our RIB while we explored Monemvasia

This impressive traditional sailing cruise ship anchored close-by at Monemvasia

We still encounter very few other cruisers, and mostly when we anchor there are only about four or five other boats around – mostly Greek, but also British, French, Italian, Dutch, Swedish & German. We haven’t seen and New Zealand, Australian or American boats for some time.
TECHNICAL
Nothing to report
LOG
Up to 7 July have spent 100 days aboard, and cruised 756 miles for 139 engine hours.