Ancient Corinth
Αρχαία Κόρινθος
A powerful ancient city-state strategically positioned between two seas, showcasing the iconic Temple of Apollo and ruins of a sophisticated commercial center. The site reveals the prosperity and influence of classical Corinth and includes an excellent museum with sculptural treasures.
Things to do
- Explore the Temple of Apollo — Walk among the seven standing Doric columns of this 6th-century BCE temple, one of ancient Greece's most recognizable monuments overlooking the archaeological site.
- Visit the Corinth Museum — View exceptional Roman-period mosaics, Hellenistic sculptures, and pottery that illustrate the city's wealth and artistic sophistication across centuries.
- Examine the Roman Forum remains — Wander through foundations and scattered columns of the bustling marketplace that served as Corinth's commercial and administrative heart after Roman conquest.
- Climb Acrocorinth fortress — Ascend the acropolis for sweeping views of both the Corinthian and Saronic gulfs, the strategic advantage that made ancient Corinth so powerful.
- Study the Peirene Fountain complex — Examine the layered history of this essential water source with its Roman upper reservoir and earlier Greek lower chambers carved into rock.
- Walk the Sacred Way — Follow the processional route connecting the city to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, lined with votive offerings and sacred monuments.
Food to try
- Fava — A creamy yellow split-pea dip typical of the Peloponnese, served with olive oil and lemon as an appetizer at traditional tavernas near the site.
- Grilled octopus — Fresh octopus from the nearby Saronic Gulf, simply charred and dressed with lemon and oregano, reflecting Corinth's ancient maritime trade.
- Pastitsada — A slow-cooked beef stew with wine and spices that is traditional comfort food throughout the Peloponnese.
- Saganaki — Fried cheese served warm with lemon, a popular meze in local tavernas that celebrates the region's pastoral dairy heritage.
- Local Corinthian raisins and wine — Sample dried currants and local wines that recall Corinth's historical prominence in Mediterranean trade of these luxuries.
Local customs & good to know
- Visit early morning or late afternoon — The site receives intense midday heat and crowds; arrive by 8 AM or after 4 PM for better viewing conditions and fewer tourists.
- Respect the archaeological boundaries — Roped-off areas protect ongoing excavations and fragile structures; stay on marked paths and do not touch carved inscriptions or reliefs.
- Dress appropriately for sun exposure — The open excavations offer minimal shade; wear sun protection, comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven ancient stone, and bring water.
- Learn about Corinth's dual heritage — Ancient Corinth was destroyed by Rome in 146 BCE and refounded as a Roman colony; the site reflects both Greek and Roman periods, so understanding this narrative enriches your visit.