Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The indented coast's sheer cliffs plunge into the sea, and rocky outcrops shelter
pebbled beaches. This wild and barren landscape is broken only by austere and imposing
stone towers, many now being restored, which still stand sentinel over the region.
With your own vehicle you can explore the Mani by the loop road that runs down the
west coast from the main town, Areopoli, to Gerolimenas, and return via the east coast
(or vice versa). Public transport exists, although it's limited.
Areopoli Αρεόπολη
POP 800
Areopoli (ah-reh-
o
-po-lih), capital of the Mani, is aptly named after Ares, the god of war.
Dominating the main square, Plateia Athanaton, is a statue of Petrobey Mavromihalis,
who proclaimed the Maniot insurrection against the Turks. Konstantinos and Georgios
Mavromihalis (1765-1848), who assassinated Kapodistrias, belonged to the same family.
The town retains many other reminders of its rumbustious past.
Sights & Activities
Churches
There are some fine examples of Maniot architecture to be found in the narrow alleyways
surrounding Plateia 17 Martiou.
Church of Taxiarhes
CHURCH
On the southern side of the square is the 18th-century Church of Taxiarhes. Its four-
storey bell tower marks it as the most important of Areopoli's many churches. Look out
for the extremely well-preserved relief carvings above the main door.
Church of Agios Ioannis
CHURCH
The much older Church of Agios Ioannis, on the southern edge of Areopoli's old town,
contains a series of frescoes relating the life of Jesus. It was built by the Mavromihalis
family.
Tower Houses
There are numerous examples of tower houses - some in poor condition, while others
have been converted into smart accommodation. The
Mavromihalis Tower
(Tzani Tz-
anaki), south of Plateia 17 Martiou, was once the mightiest tower in town, but now it
stands sadly derelict.
