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Achaia
Patra
the capital of Peloponnesse, is a thriving commercial and
industrial centre, the third most important town in Greece and
its main western port. Every day thousands of travelers pass
through this lively harbor town, the capital of the Achaia and
the largest city in the Peloponnese, as they shuttle between
destinations in the Peloponnese, Italy, Cyprus, Crete and the
Ionian islands.
The city's
ruins serve as a testament to centuries of diverse cultural
influence imposed upon it. From the 2nd century BC to the 18th
century AD, Patras passed through the hands of the Romans,
Franks, Turks and Venetians. In 1828 it was liberated, and has
remained Greek ever since.
A 13th
century Venetian castle dominates the city. Built on the site
of the temple of the Panachaian Athena, it offers panoramic
views of the Gulf of Patras and the Ionian islands of
Zakynthos and Kefallonia. The city is also home the
Archaeological Museum of Patras and to the largest Orthodox
cathedral in Greece, dedicated to St. Andrew, who lived and
died here.
 During the
summer the Patras Arts Festival features events staged at the
city's ancient Roman theater. Perhaps the best time to visit
is during Carnival (mid-January through Ash Wednesday).
Rumored to have the finest Karnavali in Greece, the city
springs to life every night with feasts, parades and parties
and people of all ages dancing in the streets.
Patras is
also a pleasant seaside resort with some good hotels. It is an
ideal base for visitors to the region. West of Patras is Lapas
and, further south, are Kourouta and Palouki beaches,
connected by a daily bus to Amaliada.
At Kyllini
there are mineral springs, hydropathic installations and a
number of new hotels. With a public beach, it is a lively
resort as well as a spa. East of Patras there are beaches at
Psathopirgos, Lambiri, Longos, Selianitika, Kounoupeli and
Kalogria. A tiny train climbs up the Vouraikos Gorge from
Diakoftoto Kalavrita. Other resorts include Vartholomio,
Nikoleika (Aigio), Lakopetra and Metochi. A road runs 77km (48
miles) southeast of Patras through superb mountain scenery to
Kalavrita. |
