Family Cultural Escape to Monemvasia, Greece

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today, Monemvasia unveiled more of its enchanting secrets. It felt like stepping back in time, each stone whispering stories of Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans. The air was filled with the scent of the sea and the promise of culinary adventures. I was eager to explore more of this unique island town with Lena and Kai.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Chrisovoulo Cafe Restaurant Bar. The view from the balcony was breathtaking, the sea shimmering under the morning sun. I savored a strong Greek coffee, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt, and Kai devoured a stack of pancakes. Chrisovoulo is known for blending traditional Greek flavors with international cuisine, and it was the perfect start to our day. The 'Chrisovoulo' name itself has ancient roots in imperial writs, which belongs to a long gone Byzantine era.


Discover authentic Greek cuisine at Chrisovoulo Cafe Restaurant Bar, nestled within historic Monemvasia Castle with stunning sea views.

Fueled and ready, we ventured deeper into the heart of Monemvasia, our first stop being the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia. The walk up to the Upper Town was a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views made it worthwhile. The church clings dramatically to the edge of the cliff, a testament to the enduring power of faith and architecture.


Discover the Holy Church of Hagia Sophia in Monemvasia, a stunning Byzantine masterpiece with breathtaking views and rich historical significance.

The Hagia Sophia dates back to 1150, a period of significant growth for Monemvasia. It was originally dedicated to Panagia Hodegetria. Over the centuries, it has been a church, a Catholic convent, and a mosque, reflecting the town's turbulent history. Inside, we admired the fragments of well-preserved 12th-century frescoes. The church belongs to the so-called “continental” octagonal, domed type and is considered one of its most beautiful examples. Standing there, I couldn't help but reflect on the layers of history embedded in these stones. Kai, surprisingly, was captivated by the architecture, while Lena, with her museum curator's eye, appreciated the artistry of the frescoes.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Next on our itinerary was the Panagia Chrysafitissa Church. This small, whitewashed church is located in the heart of the Lower Town. Dating back to the 17th century, it stands on the site of a former 12th-century monastery. Legend says that the icon of the Virgin Mary was discovered in a well here, and the water is considered miraculous. The church celebrates the following day from Sunday of Thomas. The story of the icon of Panagia Chrysafitissa is quite interesting. It is said that merchants from Chrysafa came to Monemvasia to celebrate the feast of the Theotokos. They noticed the icon was from their village and claimed it had been stolen. After a trial, the judge ruled in their favor, but the icon miraculously returned to Monemvasia the next day. I found the story fascinating, another example of the deep faith and rich folklore that permeates this region.


Explore the breathtaking Panagia Chrysafitissa Church in Monemvasia, a stunning Byzantine masterpiece with panoramic sea views and rich cultural heritage.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere, we decided to take in the views from the Framed panoramic point. As a photographer, I always appreciate a good vantage point, and this one did not disappoint. From here, we could see the entire town spread out before us, the terracotta roofs contrasting with the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. It was the perfect spot for a family photo, capturing the essence of our Monemvasia adventure. The view over the “Hidden town” was magnificent.


Experience stunning views and rich history at the Framed Panoramic Point in Monemvasia, a true gem of the Greek coastline.

By this point, our stomachs were rumbling, so we made our way to Athivoli for lunch. This restaurant is known for its creative take on traditional Greek dishes, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Lena and I shared a selection of mezes, including the sfela cheese and the sautéed shrimps, while Kai opted for a juicy grilled beef burger. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. What stood out was the freshness of the ingredients and the innovative flavor combinations. I was reminded of my days growing up in Hawaii, where fresh, local ingredients were always at the heart of our family meals. The restaurant itself could be a key reason to choose this particular area for your vacation.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we strolled through the charming streets of Monemvasia, eventually finding ourselves at Monemvasia Deli - Edodimopolio. This delightful shop is a treasure trove of local products, from olive oil and honey to almond sweets and homemade liqueurs. I was particularly intrigued by the Melitókraso, a traditional liqueur made from honey and water, known since ancient times. We sampled a few different products, chatted with the friendly owners, and picked up some souvenirs for friends back in Berlin. Edodimopolio was created by a group of olive oil producers, famous for their honey wine. This is the only place in Monemvasia where you can find the traditional liqueur “Melitókraso”.


Explore Monemvasia Deli - Edodimopolio for a taste of Greece with artisanal products and local delicacies, perfect for food lovers and travelers alike.

As evening approached, we made our way to Oinomelo for dinner. This restaurant had caught my eye earlier in the day with its charming décor and inviting atmosphere. Oinomelo is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Greek culinary heritage. The restaurant prides itself on its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions. We started with some local wine, a crisp white that perfectly complemented the seafood dishes we ordered. Lena chose the sea bass, while I opted for the pork tenderloin, both were cooked to perfection. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. The owners were very really friendly and made us feel at home.


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

As the day drew to a close, we walked back to our guesthouse, the Ardamis, under the starlit sky. The air was cool and still, the only sound the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. I felt a deep sense of contentment, grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible experience with my family. Monemvasia had cast its spell on us, and I knew that the memories we made today would stay with us long after we left.


Experience the charm of Monemvasia at Ardamis Guest House, where comfort meets local culture and stunning views await every morning.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Lighthouse of Monemvasia, Elkomenos Christos, and Chryssafitissa Square. We might also stop by Malvasia Café for a drink. I am already looking forward to discovering more of this magical place.

The warmth and charm of Monemvasia are truly captivating. Good night from Monemvasia.