Ermioni

The popular seaside resort attracts thousands of visitors every summer and is an ideal destination for sailors. Walk around the Bisti pine forest, visit the Historical and Folklore Museum and enjoy fine dining at the picturesque harbor of Madrakia.

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Ermioni evolved over the years and became a very popular holiday destination of Argolida.  Due to the amazing nature and crystal-clear waters, wealthy people and celebrities have built villas all over the area and sailors dock at the piers almost all year round. The settlement is built in a deep bay. On one side is the peninsula of the Bisti pine forest. At the opposite end is the church of Agios Gerasimos and the old mill -ideal spots to enjoy fantastic vistas, especially during sunset. 

The seaside resort faces the cosmopolitan island of Hydra and the islet of Dokos where the oldest known shipwreck (3rd millennium BC) was discovered. It attracts thousands of visitors every summer and the picturesque small harbor of Madrakia is lined with restaurants, café-bars and fish taverns.  

The history of the city of Hermione dates back to 3,000 BC. According to Strabo it was significant because of the shipbuilding, fishing and agriculture that were developed in the area. 

The Bisti peninsula is thought to have been the site of the city of the Archaic times. In classical and Roman times, it was extended between the two ports, and was surrounded by a strong wall. Planted with pine trees since the beginning of the 20th century, the Bisti grove is an ideal spot for walks, sports and swimming in the small coves underneath the peninsula. Walking around you will see the base of the ancient sanctuary of Poseidon and the Mitsaios windmill (1780-90). In its place is believed to have been the site of the ancient "porphireion", where the production of porphyry dye and the dyeing of yarns and fabrics took place. Hermionic purple was famous in the ancient world -Plutarch mentions that it impressed even Alexander the Great when he found it in Sussa. 

As you stroll around the settlement you will come across the old neighborhood built around the Byzantine church of Taxiarches. Near the church is the Historical and Folklore Museum housed in the 18th century Economou mansion. Next to the church of Panagia is the colorful Toy Museum. 

A nearby sandy beach is Kouverta: It is organized and ideal for snorkeling. Other beaches in the area are Petrothalassa, with sand, pebbles and nice waters, and the pebbly Dardiza.

Near Ermioni is the monastery of Agioi Anargyroi, a great pilgrimage site in the area. According to a local tradition, it was built on the ruins of an ancient temple of Asclepios.   The monastery was founded in the 17th century and maintained a large property. On the land near the monastery, you will spot 1000-2000-year-old olive trees and you will be impressed by their trunks which are remarkable natural sculptures.  

Did you know that

Ermioni is 85 km from Nafplio and 180 km from Athens. You can also come by flying dolphin from the port of Piraeus. By sea you can easily get to Hydra. 

Among the celebrations organized in Ermioni are the Choir Festival (every summer in mid-July, by the Music Association of Ermioni), the Burning of Judas (Easter Sunday) and the interesting traditional custom of "Yala-Yala", on the eve and day of Epiphany. In October there is the Pomegranate Festival, where you can taste the pomegranates of Ermioni in various sweets, food and drinks. 

Location

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