Walking the Fortress at Methoni, Greece

A Seaside Town near Pylos on the Peloponnese Peninsula

Aug 30, 2009 Kathryn Hedderig

Exploring a 15th century Venetian fortress along with walks on the beach and visiting nearby Pylos create an attraction to the Greek village of Methoni on the Ionian Sea.

The village of Methoni lies on the southwestern section of the Peloponnese Peninsula and stretches along the Ionian Sea approximately 9 km south of Pylos. The region, as in many parts of Greece, boasts a long and colorful history that dates from the 4th century B.C. One of the most important structures that remain today is a magnificent fortress that juts into the harbor where waves crash over the rocky walls. The grounds around the fortress contain wonderful walking paths and provide an opportunity to explore ancient underground paths, stone walkways and an actively used church among the ruins.

Historical Facts about the Fortress at Methoni

Starting in the early 12th century, the Venetians were determined to conquer the area around Methoni for its natural harbor and strategic location to Venice. To protect their interests, they constructed a massive stone fortress used for military purposes. The Venetians stood their ground for about three hundred years until a Turkish invasion overthrew the ruling class. The Turks fortified and reinforced the walls. Remains of the Turkish baths can be toured while a deep moat separates a castle structure from the other architecture. Although centuries of pounding surf continue to pour onto the walls of the fortress, the ruins continue to endure and create an imaginative glimpse of the Greek heritage.

Things to Do in Methoni

Admission to the fortress is free although the grounds are closed after sunset. A leisurely tour of the structure and landscape could easily encompass a half day. A good place to take a break is inside the Byzantine era church where wooden chairs on a tiled floor allow visitors and worshipers to admire the colorful icons and wall paintings.

Residents of the town of Methoni’s pride themselves on their long sandy beach that has won environmentally progressive awards. The pristine beach provides a place to relax or walk along the shore and playgrounds for children.

In the village center, several outdoor cafes offer exquisite Greek cuisine, wine beer or ouzo. Patrons spend hours talking with the locals or among themselves, never feeling rushed to leave the table. Many of the restaurants feature fresh seafood and locally grown produce.

The drive to Pylos passes pretty hillside olive groves and gardens. Many tourists have come to Methoni, Foinikounda, Koroni and Pylos and decided to buy a permanent place to live. New homes continue to arise on the hilltops overlooking the sea.

Things to Do in Pylos

The larger town of Pylos offers a full spectrum of activities for visitors. A hilltop castle surrounded by flowering gardens makes an interesting walking tour along. The adjacent museum contains artifacts and explanations of the many historical eras of Greece.

Boat tours, booked from the waterfront stands, take passengers around the Bay of Navarino and may include a visit to the island of Sfaktiria. For those wanted a deep water experience, the Pilos Marine center, found at www.pilosmarine.com, takes divers into the warm blue waters. The town center contains a variety of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants that become popular establishments during the busy summer season. Some of the hotels and restaurants close after October but others remain open throughout the year.

Many charming B&B’s including the ocean front Hotel Miramare, (2723 022 751) offer comfortable accommodations within walking distance of the town center and harbor.

The copyright of the article Walking the Fortress at Methoni, Greece in S Europe Travel is owned by Kathryn Hedderig. Permission to republish Walking the Fortress at Methoni, Greece in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Methoni Fortress