The Castle of Acrocorinth is, along with the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth at its foot, a lovely, alternative idea for a day trip, just one hour away from Athens.
In the mood for a nearby excursion that blends nature and historic sights? The castle of Acrocorinth is almost an hour from Athens and is a lovely idea for an archaeological walk with the family or with friends.
Driving from Athens towards the Peloponnese, passing by Corinth, it is impossible not to notice the sheer rock with the imposing castle. Acrocorinth is one of the largest and most impressive castles in the Peloponnese. The perimeter of its walls reaches 3 kilometers, while from the top of the hill the view is breathtaking.
Acrocorinth: A journey into History
Southwest of Ancient Corinth rises the steep rock of Acrocorinth to an elevation of 575 meters. Owing to its morphology, it was used since ancient times as a lookout that evolved into a castle-fortress, from which any potential raid from Central Greece or from the sea was overseen. Acrocorinth was first fortified by the tyrant Periander and his father Cypselus in the 7th-6th centuries BC and gradually developed into an acropolis. It served as the fortified acropolis of ancient and medieval Corinth. Those who passed through here (the Franks, the Hospitallers, the Turks with Mehmed II in 1458, the Venetians in 1687 and the Turks again in 1715, before it was handed over to the Greeks in 1823 after the liberation of Corinth) strengthened and extended the fortifications.
Within the castle three defensive zones were created with walls, bastions, embrasures, moats and well-fortified entrances. Three imposing gateways lead into the interior of the castle wherethere areruins of structures from almost every period (temples, mosques with minaret, fountains, etc.). It is worth climbing to the top of the hill to enjoy the wonderful view that spans the Gulf of Patras and the Gulf of Corinth, the southern coasts of Central Greece, the entire western part of the Saronic Gulf, Salamis and Aegina. Entry to the castle is free, and there is also a parking area. Make sure to come early so you have enough time to explore the castle and wear suitable shoes (take care when walking as the stones are slippery).
Heading down from Acrocorinth you can visit Ancient Corinth. The center of the village is the cobbled pedestrian street that encloses the archaeological site. Make a stop to admire the Temple of Apollo, built in 530 BC in the Doric order, and visit the archaeological museum that houses the finds from the excavations.
In Ancient Corinth there are a few small tavernas. Loutraki and Corinth are very close and offer many options for tavernas, restaurants and cafes after your strolls.
