Family Cultural Escape to Monemvasia, Greece

A Day of Discovery in the Stone City

Today was a day of diving deep—literally and figuratively—into the heart of Monemvasia's rich history. From exploring underwater remnants of the past to honoring literary giants and marveling at ancient engineering, it was a day filled with stories waiting to be uncovered. The family was eager to explore, and Monemvasia certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mateo's. I opted for some fresh seafood, which Mateo's is known for, while Lena enjoyed a traditional Greek yogurt with honey. Kai, of course, went straight for the waffles. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the historical wonders Monemvasia had to offer. It's amazing how much history is packed into this small island. Even though Berlin has its fair share of historical places, Monemvasia is a completely different experience. The blend of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences is palpable, creating a unique atmosphere that's both captivating and humbling.


Experience fresh seafood and local brews at Mateo's in Gefira - where every meal is a taste of Greece.

Our first stop was the WWII Shipwreck. The kids were excited about this one. I had read about it before we left Berlin, and it sounded like a fascinating site. We drove south, passing through Kastro, until we reached the coast. The walk to the site was scenic, offering beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. The wreck itself was a haunting sight, a testament to a tumultuous time in history. It's amazing how nature reclaims these things, turning them into artificial reefs teeming with life. Kai was particularly fascinated, peppering me with questions about the ship's history and how it ended up there. Lena, ever the museum curator, was intrigued by the historical context and the stories the wreck could tell.


Explore the haunting beauty of the WWII Shipwreck near Monemvasia, Greece, where history meets the stunning Mediterranean seascape.

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

After the shipwreck, we journeyed back into the heart of Monemvasia to find the Poet Yiannis Ritsos Commemorative Plaque. As someone who appreciates literature, I was looking forward to paying homage to one of Greece's most celebrated poets. We found the plaque in Chrysafitissa Square. Ritsos's poetry resonates deeply with themes of love, loss, and the Greek landscape. I read aloud a few lines from one of his poems, trying to capture the essence of his work. It was a touching moment, a reminder of the power of words to transcend time and space. Lena shared some insights about Ritsos's life and his impact on Greek culture, enriching our understanding of his legacy. I feel a connection to Ritsos, as someone who also appreciates the power of language and culture. His words, like the echoes in this stone city, linger long after they are spoken.


Explore the Yiannis Ritsos Commemorative Plaque in Monemvasia, a tribute to Greece's poetic heritage amidst stunning coastal scenery.

Next on our itinerary was the Wall Cistern. Built during the Byzantine era, the cistern was part of an organized water supply system designed to collect rainwater. These underground reservoirs were essential for the town's survival, especially given the lack of natural springs on the island. Exploring the cool, shadowy depths of the Wall Cistern offered a serene escape from the sun-drenched streets of Monemvasia. The architecture showcased the advanced engineering skills of the Byzantine era, with vaulted ceilings and intricately carved stone walls. It was a marvel to see how they managed water so efficiently in such a challenging environment. It made me think about sustainable living and how we can learn from the past to address the challenges of the present. Kai, always the curious one, wanted to know how the cistern worked and how much water it could hold. Lena admired the engineering ingenuity, comparing it to similar systems she'd seen in other historical sites.


Explore the historical Wall Cistern in Monemvasia, a testament to Byzantine engineering and the town's resourceful past.

Before lunch, we took a detour to explore some of the local shops, specifically those selling olive wood products. I was keen on finding a unique souvenir, something that would remind us of our time in Monemvasia. We found a charming shop filled with handcrafted items made from olive wood. I ended up buying a small ukulele made of olive wood, a nod to my Hawaiian roots. Lena picked out a beautiful olive wood bowl for our kitchen back in Berlin, and Kai chose a small carving of a dolphin. These little treasures will serve as reminders of our time here, connecting us to the culture and craftsmanship of Monemvasia.


Explore Olive Wood, the premier gift shop in Monemvasia, offering handcrafted treasures that embody Greek artistry and culture.

For lunch, we stopped at Peinakothḗkē. It was a delightful experience. The kids enjoyed ice cream, crepes and waffles. Lena and I enjoyed a light lunch of Greek salad and seafood. The service was great and the staff was very friendly. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our explorations.


Experience the best crêpes and homemade ice creams at Peinakothḗkē in Monemvasia – where flavor meets tradition in every bite.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Matoula Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for being the oldest and most renowned in the area. Matoula Restaurant has been open since 1950. The restaurant has a beautiful garden, where we enjoyed a breathtaking sea view. I savored some fresh fish, while Lena enjoyed the traditional baked pie with greens. Kai tried the Lachanodolmades, cabbage leaves stuffed with rice, meat, and lemon sauce. The warm hospitality of the staff made the experience even more memorable.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Matoula Restaurant in Monemvasia - a culinary haven by the sea.

The evening ended with a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and reflecting on the day's adventures. The echoes of history seemed to resonate in every corner of Monemvasia, reminding us of the layers of civilization that have shaped this unique place. As we walked, we talked about our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting Casa Bella Vista, the Monemvasia Bridge, and the Galeazza Cistern. We're also planning to visit Byron's Wine Tasting Bar.

Back at Ardamis Guest House, as I sit down to write, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Monemvasia has a way of weaving its spell, drawing you into its stories and leaving you with a sense of wonder. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I'm excited to see what other hidden gems we'll uncover in this remarkable stone city.


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

Tomorrow promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery. I'm particularly looking forward to tasting some local wines at Byron's Wine Tasting Bar, a perfect way to end another day in this magical place. The family is already excited, and so am I. Until then, aloha from Monemvasia. It's time to rest up for another day of adventures in this enchanting corner of Greece.