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This port city graces the southern edge
of the Peloponnese and was founded by the Phoenicians prior to 400 B.C. The
castle of Mistras, with its elaborate Byzantine frescos, carved throne, and
majestic cathedrals will impress even the most seasoned traveler. Here, one can
also visit the Caves of Diros, with their incredible underground lakes and
fossils dating back two million years. On both sides of this small town are
beaches and tavernas serving ouzo and octopus.
The island of Marathonisi, or Kranae
(helmet), is connected to Gythion by a narrow strip of landfill. Legend says
that Paris of Troy anchored here after spiriting Helen away from Sparta, leaving
his Kranos, or helmet, behind. The church of Aghios Petros, a "tarsanas" (small
harbor for fishing vessels), and the Tzanetaki's tower (built around
1700) round out the sightseeing on this tiny island. For more information about
Greece, see the web site for
Dilos Holiday World.
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