Cultural Activities

Culture

The Municpality of Monemvasia, like other parts of the Peloponnese, boasts a large number of historic monuments that have survivied the passage of time. Ranging from prehistoric to classical, Byzantine to the more recent past, these include the unique medieval fortress of Monemvasia, with its well-preserved buildings of the Lower and Upper Towns, and the exhibits in the Monemvasia Archaeological Collection.

Meanwhile the folklore musuems of Velies and Riechia provide a wealth of information about the region’s daily life and culture.

The Christian tradition, another important aspect of the region’s history, is represented in dozens of churches and monasteries that are witness not only to the local population’s spiritual life but the skills of their master craftsmen and artists who built and decorated these places of worship.

Cultural life in the Muncipality of Monemvasia today takes the form of all kinds of events such as concerts, theatrical performances and art exhibitions. The biggest cultural festival is the Ritseia, a major celebration in summer dedicated to the poet Yannis Ritsos, Monemvasia’s most famous son, whose work has received recognition around the world.

Castle of Mesochori

Castle of Agia Paraskevi at Mesochori

Built during the late Byzantine era (13th – 14th century) οn a steep rock, the Castle of Agia Paraskevi stands proudly above the Vies plain. Due to its strategic location, the castle used to control the roads around Neapoli. Nowadays, this site impresses visitors with its sweeping views of the Laconian Gulf.

During the years of the Frankish rule, William II of Villehardouin granted the castle and the surrounding area to the lords of Monemvasia, while some years later the area became a part of the Despotate of Mystras.

The archaeological site of the castle is a protected cultural heritage monument and a popular stop for hikers following the routes D2 and D4, who appreciate the great views along the spiral path leading inside the castle.

 

Access

The Castle of Mesochori is 400m away from the road connecting Neapoli with Ano Kastania. The distance from Neapoli is 13 kilometres.

There is parking space at the entrance.

Location:
Mesohori near Neapoli

 

Information:
The site of the Castle is freely accessible.

Free entrance

12/05/2017 in Historic Sites Comments (0)