|
 Spetses, the
southeastern island of Argosaronikos, is located 35 nautical miles from
Piraeus. The island is rich in history and action during the Greek
Independence War, to which it contributed with a formidable fleet, leading
the rest of the islands into the struggle against Ottoman occupation. The
island's historic past is revived early in September each year with
eight-day-long celebrations called the "Armata" commemorating the great
Spetses naval battle on 8 September 1822, at which the Ottoman fleet was
defeated and forced to retreat.
The 4,000-year-old cultural history of the island unfolds in the Spetses
Museum housed in the 200-year-old mansion of Hatzi-Yianni Mexi, who was one
of the local notables. The exhibits include pottery, finds from the
classical period, sculptures and coins from the Roman through the Byzantine
periods, icons, ecclesiastical objects and a collection of local costumes
and historical manuscripts.
 At the turn of the 20th century this forest-covered island established a
reputation as a cosmopolitan holiday destination for the elite Athenian
socialites. It still lures thousands of visitors today with the distinctive
architecture of its stately mansions, picturesque Byzantine churches,
cobblestone alleys, its enchanting pine-rimmed coves, golden sandy beaches
and magnificent scenery. Spetses boasts a very attractive market, offering
shoppers from top designer labels and exquisite jewellery to fine antiques
and high quality leather goods. A large number of restaurants on the island
serve succulent local and international dishes, while numerous nightclubs,
bars and dancing clubs provide for nightlife entertainment. Cars are
infrequent on this island and most of transportation is provided by local
sea-taxis or horse-drawn carriages that lend a special charm to the place.
From the port of Piraeus there are regular ferry, hydrofoil and Catamaran
connections to Spetses year round. The island can also be reached by driving
to Costa, on the coast of Peloponnese, through Kranidi and from there across
on small ferryboats. Public transportation to Costa is also available. |
