Hiking Ancient Aigosthena Trade Route

Ancient Aigosthena was a fortified coastal city on the Korinthian Gulf. The Aigosthenians traded with the kingdom of Ancient Thebes and they built a paved road that led from Aigosthena, through the mountains, to Thebes.

This path we  hiked in late September  starting at the top of the mountain in Vilia(600m altitude) and ending at the coastal ruins. The contemporary town in the area is now called Porto Germeno.

 

The hike was organized by the Nature Association of Pireaus and Stelios and I, although not members, were allowed to tag along. Thank you to www.FOP.gr !

Handsome, isn't he!

Greek woman lighting a candle at a small chapel

The beginning of the ancient stone road.

Interesting fact: the ancient Greeks never built a road on land that could be farmed.



After 6 hours of hiking through pine woods, shrubs, thyme scented paths and goat visited fields we saw the breathtaking vista of the Korynthian Gulf, Ancient Aigosthena and Porto Germeno.

Byzantine chapels are found in many places in Greece. This one is dedicated to St John, the Baptist and was on our trail in the woods.

Found Goat head.  I wanted it for myself but my friend here beat me to it!

Very Georgia O'Keefe.

Speaking of pines, on the trail we witnessed pine pitch gathering. One of the major industries of the area in  the past was collecting the pine pitch. Not very different than maple sap collection. Today, resin use has been reduced because synthetics produce the components that were found in the pitch. Nevertheless, there is still some collection for wine barrels and other uses.

We quickened our step and after a brief tour of the ruins we dove into the blue sea. Lunch at Porto Germeno at one of the seaside tavernas is a must to complete a beautiful day.

Entrance to Aigosthena Fort

Don't forget to feed the kitties at the taverna!

I bring you these few photos as a souvenir. However, if there were a virtual aromatherapy transport(New Tech idea??) I could deliver to you the magic of thyme scents aloft as we stepped on the low shrubs, of pine scent as we brushed against the leaning pine branches, and even of goat droppings as we encountered a goat herder's lair. It isn't the Greek countryside without this trifecta of scents!

I'm always grateful that my two feet lead me to these special nature venues. Among the hikers there was an 88 year old man who had been one of the original organizers of the group back in the 20's. I imagine he'll be hiking to the end.

Enjoy!

Maria


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