Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Hidden Town of Monemvasia, Greece

Breathtaking and otherworldly, that is how it feels to step out of the stone tunnel and into the historical town of Monemvasia, Greece. This car-free town is located on the Peloponnese, about a four-hour drive from Athens and was built carved into the rock facing the sea. Visitors and residents park in the modern city on the mainland or on the narrow bridge and then make their way on foot into the medieval town, beautifully preserved and full of charm.

Monemvasia may not be as well-known of a destination, making it a hidden gem in the tourist world. But its history also recalls the fact that it was an actual hidden gem. Prior to 1971 when a bridge was constructed to connect the island to the mainland, Monemvasia stood isolated—which is exactly why it became so valuable and an important place for its residents. Monemvasia means “single passage” and inhabitants would flee to the island where they could hide behind the massive rocks that protected them from invaders and incoming attacks.

Changing hands countless times since its founding in 587, it was an important trading spot and hub for Byzantine, Venetian, Turkish and Greek powers. Its medieval fortress on the top of the island was the powerhouse for the island throughout its history. Residents consider July 23, 1821, its independence day because it was freed from Ottoman rule by Tzannetakis Grigorakis in the Greek War of Independence.

Perhaps you had not heard of Monemvasia, but maybe Malvasian wine rings a bell. “Malvasia” is the Italian name for this island and the name of a group of grape varieties grown around the Mediterranean; it is believed the name of the grapes came from the fact that the island was an important trading port of the wine industry throughout its history.