Aegina: A Paradise Near Athens
Aegina is one of the most popular islands in the Saronic Gulf, thanks to its easy access from Athens and its many natural and cultural attractions.
Archaeology
Aegina has a long and rich history, which is reflected in the many archaeological sites on the island. The most important of these are the Temple of Aphaia Athena, which is one of the best-preserved monuments of classical Greece, and the archaeological site of Ancient Aegina, where the ruins of the ancient city are located.
Saint Nektarios of Aegina: The Miracle-Working Saint of the Eastern Orthodox Church
Saint Nektarios, also known as Nektarios of Pentapolis or Nektarios of Aegina, was a Greek Thracian bishop and theologian, a modern miracle-working saint of the Eastern Orthodox Church. He was a popular hierarch, pastor, and educator in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Saint Nektarios was born on October 1, 1846, in Sillivra, Thrace. He studied theology in Athens and was then ordained a deacon and priest. He served as the abbot of the Holy Trinity Monastery in Aegina from 1908 to 1920, when he died.
Saint Nektarios was known for his simplicity, philanthropy, and devotion to the Church. He was also a miracle worker, with many believers testifying that they received help from his prayers.
The memory of Saint Nektarios is celebrated on November 8. The Holy Trinity Monastery in Aegina is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Greece.
Attractions
In addition to the archaeological sites, Aegina has many other attractions, such as:
- The Government House, which hosted the first capital of the newly established Greek state
- The neoclassical buildings of Hora, which testify to the island's economic prosperity in the 19th century
- The House of Kazantzakis, where the great Greek writer lived for many years
- The Aegina Museum, which houses a rich collection of archaeological finds from the island
Beaches
Aegina has many beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand. The most popular beaches are:
- Agia Marina, a large beach with crystal-clear waters and pebbles
- Agia Anna, a beach with sandy shores and crystal-clear waters
- Souvala, a beach with pebbles and a cosmopolitan atmosphere
- Agia Nikolaos Beach, a beach with pebbles and calm waters
- The Harbor Beach, a beach with sand and a cosmopolitan atmosphere
Food
Aegina is famous for its pistachios and its delicious food, which is based on fresh, local produce. The most popular dishes on the island are:
- Lobster pasta
- Fresh fish and seafood
- Dolmades
- Grilled meats
- The wonderful sweets of Aegina made from pistachios.
Entertainment
Aegina offers a variety of entertainment options, such as:
- Nightclubs
- Bars
- Restaurants
- Museums
- Galleries
Accommodation
Aegina has a variety of accommodation options, such as:
- Hotels
- Rental apartments
- Studios
Ports
Aegina has three ports: Aegina Port, Souvala Port, and Agia Marina Port.
- Aegina Port is the main port of the island and is connected to the port of Piraeus (Athens) and the other islands of the Saronic Gulf by regular ferry services.
- Souvala Port is the second largest port of Aegina and is also used to connect the island to the port of Piraeus and the other islands of the Saronic Gulf.
- Agia Marina Port is the smallest port of Aegina and is mainly used for small boats and to connect the island to the port of Piraeus and the other islands of the Saronic Gulf.
The website www.Ferries.gr is the perfect way to find information on all ferry routes from / To Aegina. You can search for routes based on the date of departure and destination, and learn about all the companies that depart and the prices of tickets.
