Aegina history

Chrysoleontissa Monastery Aegina: The Fortified Hill Convent

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The fortified Monastery of Chrysoleontissa with its cypresses in the hills of Aegina

The Monastery of Panagia Chrysoleontissa is one of the most beautiful and historic monasteries on Aegina, standing high in the mountainous centre of the island. Fortified like a small castle, with a crenelated tower and a peaceful, flower-filled courtyard. It was built inland in the seventeenth century to escape the pirate raids that plagued the … Read more

Aegina History: Ancient Sea Power and First Capital of Greece

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Aegina history: the lone ancient column of the Temple of Apollo at the Kolona site above the harbour

The history of Aegina is remarkably rich for so small an island, spanning from prehistoric times to the birth of the modern Greek nation. In antiquity Aegina was a formidable maritime and trading power that rivalled Athens, struck some of the first coins in the Greek world, and built the great Temple of Aphaia. In … Read more