{"id":2981,"date":"2021-01-11T11:37:03","date_gmt":"2021-01-11T11:37:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/livethegreeklife.com\/?p=2981"},"modified":"2021-04-19T19:05:09","modified_gmt":"2021-04-19T19:05:09","slug":"spetses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/livethegreeklife.com\/spetses\/","title":{"rendered":"All you need to know about Spetses!"},"content":{"rendered":"

The island of Spetses pops color! It\u2019s secluded beaches have a tropical vibe with their white sands, emerald waters, and dense vegetation and it\u2019s charming fishing villages provide picturesque scenes bursting with vibrancy. The island\u2019s history is long and rich in naval traditions and has lead to the island possessing some striking landmarks. This is the perfect island to unwind and relax!<\/p>\n

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Background<\/h6>\n

Findings from archeological excavations show that the island has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, however it\u2019s first settlement Kastelli was found to be Medieval. In the 15th century the population increased as did the island\u2019s marine power and tradition. This led to the empowerment of the island\u2019s fleet which ended up playing an important role during the War of Greek Independence.
\nSightseeing highlights include:
\nOld harbour: One and a half kilometers from the new harbour of Hydra lies the old harbour. This enchanting area used to be the centre of ship building during the 18th and 19th century.
\nLighthouse: Located on the right side of the harbour is one of the oldest lighthouses that ever operated in Greece.
\nThe Museum of Spetses: The Museum of Spetses is housed in an elegant mansion belonging to a local tradesman of the 19th century. It hosts items that depict the island\u2019s rich history.
\nBouboulina Museum: This private museum is housed in the heroine Bouboulina\u2019s home and displays a selection of her personal belongings. Bouboulina was a Greek naval commander and heroine of the Greek War of Independence.
\nChurch of Agios Nikolaus: This is the most famous and most stunning church on the island. It has an impressive bell tower made of Titian marble.
\nBekiris Cave: This dreamy cave is reachable by boat or via a tricky path from the beach of Agioi Anargyroi. Inside the cave is a tiny sand beach and a display of striking stalactites and stalagmites.
\nChurch of Panagia Armata: This church was built between 1824-1830 by a Spetsiote Captain to commemorate the defeat of the Ottoman fleet by the Greeks.
\nChurch of Agia Paraskevi: The tiny chapel of Agia Paraskevi is located on the beach of the same name.
\nMonastery of Agioi Pantes: Established in the early 19th century, the imposing Monastery of Agioi Pantes stands on top of a hill in Agia Marina and offers stunning views. The Monastery\u2019s cemetery holds tombs of important local figures.<\/p>\n

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