Aegina is an island of idyllic beaches, the capital of pistachios and a place where the Greeks prefer to rest.
Aegina is an ideal island in all respects. It is less popular than other Greek destinations, famous for its variety of beaches. Its location is near Athens. Moreover, Aegina has a long and rich history, a lot of interesting sights and a cozy, almost homely, atmosphere.
From Antiquity to Modernity. The Legacy of Aegina
Each era has left its legacy for Aegina, attracting thousands of travelers to the island today. One of the most ancient monuments worth visiting is the Dorian temple of Aphaea. Despite the influence of time and destruction, you can assess the scale of the temple and the skill of architects, see a pediment decorated with a sculptural group, and monumental columns. Temple of Aphaea may be considered the main attraction and symbol of Aegina.
If you look at Aegina from the sea, you can see a picturesque hill, and the ruins of the temple of Apollo there. The place is also known as the "Column" because of the only preserved column of the sanctuary. In the past, here was the religious and political center of the island. Not only ruins of the temple of Apollo lie on the hill, but also the remains of other sanctuaries, fortress walls and installations of different eras.
Is it possible to imagine at least one Greek island without a religious shrine? On Aegina it is the monastery of Saint Nectarios. The building in the neo-Byzantine style is relatively modern. However, pilgrims are drawn to the monastery not only to admire the architecture, but also to worship the imperishable relics of Saint Nectarios, the founder of the monastery, which are revered as miraculous.
In the capital of Aegina, you cannot pass by museums that tell a lot about the history and culture of the island. The Museum of Folklore, situated in an elegant neoclassical mansion, has been keeping an impressive collection of antique furniture, engravings, laces and traditional costumes. In addition, in the Archaeological Museum you can see the excavations from the temple of Apollo, the temple of Aphaea and other ancient sanctuaries of Aegina.
Beaches of Aegina. Where to swim and relax
You can count more than 20 fully equipped beaches on Aegina, and along with the wild bays, you will get dozens of places to relax. The most popular beach is Suvala, surrounded by a grove. Here is an ancient spring, known for its curative properties. Fanciers of relaxation in silence should choose a sandy and well-equipped beach Marathon. The village of the same name is located nearby, there you can taste fresh seafood and rent everything you need for diving.
One of the best and most lengthy beaches of Aegina is Ayia Marina. It is covered with clean sand and washed by a calm transparent sea. Shallow water is ideal for children. There are many taverns at the beach of Ayia Marina. In addition, any entertainment from parasailing to canoeing is available. If you want complete privacy, you should go to the beaches of the neighboring Moni Island. They can be reached only by boat. A trip to the Moni Island’s beaches is a popular one-day destination. Although the whole infrastructure is available here, there are no conditions for long rest on the island.
Gastronomy is a special attraction of Aegina
The fact that Greece has long attracted gourmets is already no secret. Therefore, Aegina has also something to please fans of "delicious" impressions. The island became famous for its pistachios, which are not only eaten in pure form, but are also added to sweets and drinks. Even an annual festival is hold in honor of pistachios. Fairs and concerts of famous musicians accompany it. Another strong point of local cuisine is seafood. Gray mullet and octopus are especially delicious and well-cooked here.
