Yannis Ritsos
by Lilasel
The first building when you enter Lower Monemvasia is a house of Greek poet and writer Yannis Ritsos (1909 - 1990). He was born in Monemvasia in the noble family of landowners. His grave is not far from this house.
I've got a chance to meet relatives of Yannis Ritsos in Athens.
More info about Ritsos: http://www.mikis-theodorakis.net/ritsos_e.html
Arcades
by AndyRG
The housing complexes were constructed above domed arcades though which the inhabitants passed to get from one part of the town to another.
The same traditional technique is used today when repairing or constructing.
Romantic Monemvasia
by Aggeliki
Monemvasia is one of the most beautiful and attractive regions in Lakonia and Peloponese. The rock of Monemvasia stands 95 km southeastwards of Sparta and attracts thousands of visitors all year round.
"Monemvasia" is derived from the words moni emvasi, ie., sole approach. The town owes its name to the narrow strip of land linking the coast of Peloponese with the rock. The appellation originates with the Laconians who arrived here in the 6th century AD, to shelter from the raids on the mainland. In an old record referring to the "settlement of Monemvasia" we find an early description of how the Laconians discovered this remote place by the sea, named it as described above, and settled it. Since then, and for more than a thousand years, Monemvasia experienced days of glory and fame, though also sieges and occupation.
Monemvasia is consisted of two settlements: Epano Poli, which is built at the top of the rock, and Kato Poli, built at the southeast part of the hill. These two settlements were inside the castle walls and communicated through a staircase. The only monument saved in Epano Poli is the church of Saint Sophia. Kato Poli has tall stone built houses, narrow cobblestone paths and churches that take visitors back to past times. Many old houses operate now as traditional guesthouses. Staying at of them can be an unforgettable experience to all visitors as the atmosphere is really romantic.