Aigina

Aegina is the largest of the Argosaronikos islands. The island is a well-known location since antiquity, as it refers to the hymns of Pindar and the Homeric epics. The legend wants the name of Aegina to come from the homonymous nymph, the daughter of Asopos. Zeus fell in love with her and kidnapped her on the island of Oinoni. This island was renamed Aegina in her honor, and it is the beautiful location we know today. In modern times, Aegina is known as one of the best tourist destinations but also for the famous peanut produced in the area.

The first human presence in Aegina is located during the Neolithic period, while the Achaeans of the Peloponnese settled there during the Bronze Age. After the 6th c. e.g. Aegina flourished in the trade and shipping sectors. So she managed to establish colonies and mint her own currency. In 456 BC. was the beginning of a series of successive occupations of the island: first by the Athenians and then by the Spartans, Thebans, Macedonians and Romans. Due to the constant Arab pirate raids, the interior of the island (Paleochora) was built amphitheatrically on an inaccessible hill. The Aeginians gathered there and settlements were created. At the beginning of 1700 Aegina fell to the Turks, while the participation of the island in the revolution of 1821 was great. In September 1826 the seat of the Greek Administration was established in Aegina and in January 1828 the first Greek government, under Kapodistrias. Thus Aegina became the first capital of the modern Greek state, but only for 2 years (1828 - 1829).

The rich history of Aegina is revealed through its sights. The most important is undoubtedly the Temple of Aphaia. This is the most important archaeological site of the island, which is very well preserved. There is also a small museum on the site of the temple. The Temple of Aphaia was a model for the design of the Parthenon. Another piece of antiquity emerges in the archaeological site of Kolona. This place is essentially the remains of the ancient temple that was dedicated to the god Apollo. Around the temple there are buildings of the prehistoric settlement. For lovers of modernism, a visit to the Capralo Museum would be an excellent choice. The Greek artist's sculptural, painting and engraving creations are made of local porphyry, lemon wood and other imaginative materials. Finally, it is recommended to pass by the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, a majestic church that represents the Orthodox faith.

The beaches of Aegina can please every visitor regardless of their preferences. For example, Agia Marina is the largest and most famous organized beach on the island and has been awarded the Blue Flag. On the other hand, Agios Vassilios beach is ideal for families due to its shallow waters. Aeginitissa beach has beautiful waters and trees that give their shade. For those who wish to bathe away from the crowds, the Doors are recommended. One beach has pebbles while the other is sand and they are both isolated. A special alternative proposal is the visit to the island of Moni, which is approached from the port of Perdika. This uninhabited paradise has crystal clear waters, enchanting nature as well as peacocks and deer!

Aegina produces an excellent variety of peanut which is considered one of the best in the world. During your stay on the island you will have the opportunity to try peanuts in various variations, as it is a characteristic ingredient of many local dishes. Apart from peanuts, Aegina is a place of production of wonderful wine, olive oil and honey. Finally, the strong point of the island is its famous fish taverns.

The bars and clubs of Aegina promise a frantic nightlife and star in the nightlife of the island. There are places for a relaxing drink after the afternoon swim, but also clubs that are suitable for dancing and spree.

Some useful telephone numbers during your stay in Aegina are 2297022328 for the Port Authority of the island and 2297022787 for the KTEL of Aegina. On the island of Aegina there are 3 ports, which serve ferries from Athens and the surrounding islands of the Saronic Gulf. The ports of Aegina are the port of the city of Aegina (the main port of the island), the port of Souvala on the north side of the island and the port of Agia Marina on the east. The transport network of Aegina is good and the buses cover most of the island.