Ancient Corinth-Ruins of a Great City with Rich History
Ancient Corinth is a significant archaeological site located on the Isthmus of Corinth, connecting the Peloponnese Peninsula with mainland Greece. It was one of the most important cities of ancient Greece and a major commercial and cultural center. The site features extensive ruins, including temples, a theater, and a stadium, reflecting its historical importance.
Visitor Fee:
- Admission Fee: The general entrance fee for the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth is approximately €8. There may be discounts for EU citizens and free admission on certain days (e.g., March 6, April 18, May 18, and October 28).
- Combined Ticket: A combined ticket for the archaeological site and the museum may cost around €12.
Transportation:
- By Car: Ancient Corinth is about a 1-hour drive from Athens (approximately 80 km). There is parking available near the site.
- By Bus: Public buses (KTEL) run from Athens to Corinth, with a journey time of about 1.5 hours. From the Corinth bus station, local buses or taxis can take you to the archaeological site.
- By Train: Trains from Athens to Corinth are available through the Greek Railway Organization (OSE). The train ride takes about 1 hour. From the Corinth train station, local transportation can be used to reach the site.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Ruins: Wander through the extensive ruins of Ancient Corinth, including the Temple of Apollo, the ancient Agora, and the Acrocorinth (the city's fortified high ground).
- Visit the Archaeological Museum of Corinth: Located near the site, the museum showcases artifacts from the site, including sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions.
- Climb Acrocorinth: Hike up to the Acrocorinth fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
- Historical Significance: Ancient Corinth was a major city-state in antiquity, with a rich history that includes its role in Greek mythology and as a key player in the Roman period.
- Architectural Wonders: The site features impressive ruins and structures that offer insights into ancient Greek and Roman architecture.
- Scenic Views: The site, especially from Acrocorinth, offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and the Gulf of Corinth.
How Old Is This Place:
- Age: The city of Corinth has been inhabited since the Neolithic period. It became a major city-state around the 8th century BCE. The most significant ruins date from the Classical and Roman periods, especially from the 6th century BCE to the 3rd century CE.
List of Activities:
- Site Exploration: Tour the ancient ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the Agora.
- Museum Visit: Explore the Archaeological Museum of Corinth to see artifacts and learn about the city's history.
- Hiking: Climb up to the Acrocorinth fortress for spectacular views.
- Photography: Capture the historical ruins and the scenic landscapes.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Corinth Canal: A famous engineering marvel that connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas, located about 10 km from Ancient Corinth.
- Loutraki: A nearby coastal town known for its beaches, spa facilities, and casinos.
- Nemea: An ancient site with well-preserved ruins and a nearby wine region, located about 30 km from Ancient Corinth.
Ancient Corinth offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Greece's most important ancient cities, with its rich historical heritage and stunning archaeological remains.