Sightseeing in Aegina Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

The beautiful island of Aegina is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Greece. It boasts unique archaeological sites and cultural centers; its fabulously beautiful scenery complements the rich historical heritage of Aegina. More recently, main visitors of the island were guests from Greece, but today you can meet here travelers from all over the world.

The main historical symbol of Aegina is Temple of Aphaia. It’s hard to imagine that the age of this large-scale and harmonious construction is more than 2,500 years. The temple has perfectly preserved after thousands of years; its foundation and most slender pillars have survived to these days. According to scientists, the first church built on the site of the present appeared much earlier. During the study, many beautiful marble sculptures were discovered; now they are represented at the Munich Glyptotek.

Travelers wishing to enjoy other historical artifacts should definitely look into the Archaeological Museum of Aegina . Its walls house a rich collection of antique dishes, figurines and lamps, ancient coins and weapons, which were discovered during exploration of the island. The museum was founded in 1828 and is currently the largest and most visited cultural center of the island. The rich exposition is represented within three rooms; a part of large exhibits can be seen in the courtyard. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

In the immediate vicinity of the town of Aegina there is Moni Agios Nectarios, one of the most emblematic and spectacular attractions. The monastery was founded in the early 20th century by bishop Pentapolem Nectarios and is now working for over a hundred years. Many amazing stories are associated with the name of monastery founder; he is very revered by locals. Every year, the monastery hosts a beautiful holiday in honor of the patron saint.

The legendary Kivernio is situated in the city center; the first government of independent Greece was there. This stone building that is unremarkable at first glance influenced on many important historical events. In the mid19th century, it was the residence of the Bishop of Aegina, in the second half of the 19th century refugees of Cretan Revolution were hiding in its walls. At the turn of the 19th-20th centuries the building was housing a girls school. Later it was turned into the archaeological museum. During the Second World War, German occupiers converted this building in the barracks, and after the war, the building was restored and the school was opened there. Since 1981, Kiverino has being the permanent location of the Historical Archive. This unique building has witnessed the most important historical events that have had to go through the island over the past 200 years.

Not far from the capital, there is a popular tourist destination, Kolona archeological area. It has got its name in honor of the ancient artifact found here. Those were columns, which, by scientists, represent a preserved part of the ancient Apollo Temple. It would be very interesting to visit the suburb of the capital, Ag Asomati. There remained a lovely 13th-century church housing priceless works frescoes for more than seven hundred years. Fans of natural attractions should definitely visit the nearby island of Moni; its entire territory is considered a reserve zone.

Aegina is a wonderful destination for entertainment and beachside recreation. There are more than twenty beaches on the island in total, and all of them are open for everyone. As a rule, the most popular and crowded beaches are located not far from the island’s capital. Avra and Kolona beaches have won love and dedication of numerous tourists. Young travelers, in their turn, usually enjoy visiting Eginitissa Beach because there are many charming restaurants, bars, and cafes nearby. On weekends, loud discos are always open on the beach.

Agia Marina is the biggest beach on the island. Even during the peak season, it is not hard to find a free space there. The spacious beach is always very popular with vacationers with children. Soft sand and a well-developed infrastructure make this beach suitable for active recreation. There is an ancient and attractive monastery nearby. Vacationers in search of privacy and intimacy will enjoy sunbathing on Klima Beach that is located in the bay with the same name. This is a fine pebble beach with relatively shallow water that makes it suitable for travelers with children. On weekdays, the charming bay is almost always empty.