Exploring the Enchanting Castle Town of Monemvasia with Friends

Whispers of the Past

Today in Monemvasia felt like stepping back in time. With Daniel and our friends, I explored ancient churches, soaked in breathtaking views, and savored the local cuisine. It was a day filled with history, beauty, and the simple joy of shared experiences. I'm still trying to process it all, but one thing is for sure: Monemvasia has cast its spell on me.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Voltes. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee set the perfect tone for our adventures. I opted for the dakos, a traditional Cretan salad with barley rusk, grated tomato, and local cheese. Daniel, ever the adventurous one, tried the sautéed liver with balsamic vinegar and sun-dried tomatoes. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore the wonders of Monemvasia.


Experience exquisite Greek flavors at Voltes in Monemvasia – where every dish tells a story.

Our first stop was the Church of Elkomenos Christos. As we walked through the narrow, winding streets of the lower town, I couldn't help but marvel at the medieval architecture. The church itself, located in the main square, is steeped in history. Built in 1697, it stands on the site of a former church founded in the 6th or 7th century. Inside, we admired the rare Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons, including the icon of Christ in chains before his crucifixion. The intricate details and the sense of reverence in the air were truly captivating. I learned that the church celebrates on Holy Thursday, during Easter, commemorating Christ's journey to crucifixion.


Explore Elkomenos Christos, a magnificent Greek Orthodox church in Monemvasia, rich in history and breathtaking architecture amidst stunning coastal views.

The beauty of Monemvasia lies not just in its stones, but in the stories they whisper.

Next, we ascended to the Framed Panoramic Point, which offered a stunning vista of the town and the Aegean Sea. The view was simply breathtaking. The vibrant blue of the sea against the backdrop of the ancient stone buildings created a picture-perfect moment. Daniel, with his keen eye for photography, captured some incredible shots. I made a mental note to find some Monemvasia-themed art prints when I return to London.


Capture the breathtaking beauty of Monemvasia from this stunning panoramic viewpoint, offering unforgettable vistas of history and the Aegean Sea.

Continuing our climb, we reached the Hagia Sophia Holy Orthodox Church. Perched on the highest point of Monemvasia, this Byzantine church dates back to 1150 AD. Its history is fascinating, having served as a church, a Catholic convent, and even a mosque during different periods. The architecture is stunning, a cross-in-square style church topped with a dome. The panoramic views from here were even more spectacular, stretching as far as the mountains of Crete on a clear day. Standing there, I felt a deep connection to the past, imagining all the people who had stood in that very spot over the centuries.


Explore Hagia Sophia in Monemvasia: A historic Byzantine church with stunning views, reflecting centuries of Greek heritage and architectural beauty.

After all that exploring, we were definitely ready for lunch. We headed to Oinomelo, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Greek flavors and beautiful terrace overlooking the ocean. The atmosphere was delightful, with retro elements and colorful touches. We shared a selection of appetizers, including pickled tomatoes, pastrami, and local sausages. For the main course, I couldn't resist trying the chicken skioufikta, a local specialty. Daniel opted for the spetzofai, a hearty sausage and pepper stew. Everything was delicious, and the view made it even more special.


Discover the authentic flavors of Greece at Oinomelo, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality in stunning Monemvasia.

In the afternoon, we strolled through the town, discovering hidden corners and quaint shops. We stopped at Monemvasia Deli - Edodimopolio, a gourmet grocery store offering a taste of local food culture. I was immediately drawn to the array of high-quality olive oils, traditional Greek cheeses, and handcrafted delicacies. We sampled some local honey wine, a unique product of the region. I picked up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home, including some artisanal olive oil and local herbs. It's the perfect place to find unique ingredients for a picnic or a special gift.


Discover the taste of Greece at Monemvasia Deli, offering gourmet specialties and local delicacies in the heart of Monemvasia.

As evening approached, we made our way to Athivoli for dinner. This restaurant offers a creative twist on traditional Greek cuisine. The ambiance was warm and inviting. We started with some cold appetizers, including tzatziki and spicy cheese spread. For the main course, I chose the grilled beef burger with roasted tomato and French fries. Daniel went for the grilled pork tenderloin with flavored rice and red pepper sauce. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with a creative twist at Athivoli in Monemvasia—where tradition meets innovation.

Reflecting on the day, I'm struck by the resilience and beauty of Monemvasia. This small, historic town has so much to offer, from its ancient churches and stunning views to its delicious cuisine and charming shops. It's a place where you can truly step back in time and experience the magic of Greece.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Monemvasia Archaeological Collection, the Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites, and the Lighthouse of Monemvasia. I'm also looking forward to trying Byron's Wine Tasting Bar. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us!

P.S. I almost forgot! I was so preoccupied with the historical sites that I completely forgot to buy a portable phone charger and sunglasses! Luckily, Daniel had an extra charger, but I'll definitely need to find some shades tomorrow. It’s a reminder that even the most organized travelers (like myself!) can have a small oversight. Also, I've been meaning to try some of the local wines. Perhaps tomorrow at Byron's Wine Tasting Bar?