Ruins of Thermisia Castle overlooking the Gulf of Hydra.

Archaeological Sites and Monuments of Ermionida

The seaside town of Ermioni is renowned not only for its many places of historical and cultural interest—particularly shipbuilding in Ancient times—but also today for its fine local products including pomegranates (there's an annual festival every October), citrus fruits, and olive oil.

The entrance to the Franchthi Cave. – © Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports / Ephorate of Antiquities of Argolida

The Franchthi Cave is unique in Greece in having an essentially unbroken series of deposits spanning the period from the Upper Palaeolithic to the Neolithic period. – © Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports / Ephorate of Antiquities of Argolida

Throughout the ancient town, there are visible signs bearing witness its long history, including traces of the city wall and the ancient harbour, ruins of sanctuaries and temples etc. Enjoy leisurely walks through pine-clad forest in an area called the Bisti. If you prefer a historical experience, visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ermioni, the Museum of History and Folklore, the antique Toy Museum and the 9th Century Byzantine Metropolitan Church of Taxiarches.

The next stop is the well-known, prehistoric Franchthi Cave, which is considered one of the oldest residences in Europe, with evidence of human occupation 40,000 years ago. There is a narrow winding coastal pathway, marked with red arrows, showing the way to the Mesolithic cave. This lovely walk will take approximately 20 minutes, and the panoramic view from the top of the cave is spectacular.

Ten minutes away from Ermioni is the city of Thermissia where you can visit the imposing castle, which has been mainly used by the Venetians. The castle takes its name from the ancient temple of Demeter Thermissia that was nearby, at Thermissia Lagoon.

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