Πελοπόννησος- The Peloponnese

We just returned on Friday from a three day excursion to the Peloponnese. Like I said in my last blog, the Peloponnese (Πελοπόννησος in Greek) is the peninsula south of the Corinth canal. Some of the most famous ancient civilizations, Corinth (as in the NT book of Corinthians), Sparta (We are SPARTANNSS!) and Olympia are all located on the Peloponnese, and were all locations we visited.


The only disappointment of this trip was that due to a strike the archaeological site of Corinth was closed for the day, so we weren't allowed to go beyond the gates. I was really disappointed because Corinth was one of the places I was most excited to visit. I read 1& 2 Corinthians in the weeks leading up to the trip just to make the experience even more meaningful. Oh well though, one thing I'm learning here is to just let myself roll with things. I think my family and I will return to Corinth when they come in November. It's a quick drive and it's something my parents will be really interested in too! Something to look forward to! Of course, I still got some pictures.

Behind me is the main temple of Ancient Corinth, and the hill above that is the Ancient Agora. We would have probably gone up there, had we been permitted inside.

From Corinth we took the bus to Monemvasia; probably the least well known of the cities we visited. Monemvasia is the result of Anicent Greek National Security measures. It is a huge rock that springs up off the east coast of the Peloponnese. From the mainland side of the rock, you can't see that on the far side there is an entire city built into the island. Greek naval generals and their families live in Monemvasia to this day. What beautiful views we had, too.

Behind me to the left is the Aegean Sea and to the right are some of the ruins of the ancient city that is located above the modern day restored city... another hike!

A view of the modern city. No roads go through the town. Outside the city wall is the parking lot for everyone who lives there. All deliveries to stores are brought only to the front gate, then carried to their final destinations.

Sparta and Olympia were both very cool also. Sparta is now one of the larget cities in Greece, behind Athens and Thessoloniki (N.T. Thessalonians). We visited the ancient city there... which as usual, was WAY above the modern city. All in the name of protection and a long hike. Seriously, no wonder the Spartans were known for being in great shape. 

Olympia was very cool as well. It's modern day town is small and touristy, but also very charming.  The Olympia museum and archaeological site were great but almost the best part about it, is that the excavation is not complete! There is still mystery to this site. We visited the spot where the Olympic torch is still lit every 4 years, and even got to jog on the track of the ancient stadium. 

Standing in the entrance to the stadium, where the athletes would parade in with their coaches.

On the pedestal where the winner was awarded with a wreath of olive branches (Thanks Aphrodite!) and the title of champion. No gold medal... or bronze or silver. Actually, 1st place is the only award given; 2nd place and 3rd place are only celebrated in the modern games.

Alright. Starbuck's internet is really killing me. Also, there's a man here who won't give up his outlet! His regular smoke/chat breaks from whatever work he's doing on his computer make his hogging of the only power source in this place all the more frustrating!