Monemvasia is a fairy town in the Laconia Prefecture, built upon an impressive rock. Medieval walls, tile roofs, arches, fountains, steam baths and cobblestone alleys “dipped” in bougainvillea flowers compose a dreamy scenery! Due to cars’ absence, peace and tranquility is ensured.

In the castle of Monemvasia time seems to have stopped! This castle-town, Yannis Ritsos’ (a Greek poet) "stone ship", is divided into two districts: Kato (Lower) and Ano (Upper) Town. The Lower Town is built in the southeastern part of the rock and is surrounded by walls. It is worth “losing yourself” in the labyrinth of the cobbled alleys, a path full of stone buildings, impressive arches, covered passages, houses with coats of arms, clay jars "dipped" in ivies, graphic signs and vintage elegant lanterns. At the entrance of the castle lies Yannis Ritsos’ House, who was born and lived in Monemvasia. Look, also, for the House of Mastrapostoli Rebecca, one of the most characteristic buildings in the settlement, and the Stellaki Residence, a two-storey house with a Venetian crest on the front face. The main alley of the Lower Town leads to the central square with the old cannon, where the largest church in town, Christ the Elkomenos (who is being hauled to The Cross) Church lies. Across the church, the Old Mosque is situated, wherein the archaeological collection of Monemvasia is housed. In the main alley of Lower Town, you will also find the small, but exceptionally interesting museum of gold and silver smithing. Apart from the Church of Christ the Elkomenos, within the castle, there are many other churches, including Panagia Mirtidiotissa (Virgin Mary) and Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicolas). During your stay at the castle, do not forget to take a walk along the sea city walls. The view of the castle on one side and the deep blue sea on the other, create a scenery which seems to be stolen from a fairytale! In Lower Town, you will find sophisticated taverns, tasteful café/bars and shops selling handcrafted jewelry, souvenirs and local products.

In Upper Town, built on the upper side of the rock, the ruins springing up between bushes and flowers, reveal the glory of past eras. Here the impressive Agia Sophia (Saint Sophia) Church, built on the steepest part of the cliff, dominates. From the church, you can enjoy the magical view of Lower Town, the city walls and the sea. Further up the remains of a steam bath lie. Set on the highest point of the castle, a walled and fortified area; the Acropolis (Citadel) of Goulas.

The magical journey through history and time stops at the new city of Monemvasia, Gefyra, which bears all those features of a modern seaside resort. Gefyra is built on land, opposite to the castle. Here, you can find hotels, restaurants, pastry shops and selling stores.

The atmospheric Monemvasia, with its impressive rock, its fairytale castle-town, and the natural beauty of the place captivates even the most demanding visitor all year round!