Once an ancient city-state, Corinth is now a major tourist attraction for those wanting to delve into Greece’s ancient past. Blessed with fertile plains, natural springs and a strategic location, it quickly emerged as a major trading hub. Thanks to its tactical position, Ancient Corinth once controlled all land access to the Peloponnese peninsula.
Today, the ancient city is considered a treasured archaeological site by the Greek Ministry of Culture. Its origins date back to 44 BC, with sites like the Acrocorinth Fortress and Temple of Apollo still visible to this day. There’s also a fantastic museum to explore, which showcases an incredible collection of artefacts recovered from excavations.
Ancient Corinth is perched on the narrow isthmus that connects the Peloponnese peninsula with mainland Greece. It’s an easy day trip from Athens, with the drive taking just over one hour. Trains also make the trip in just two hours, departing from Athens Railway Station.
While today Ancient Corinth is little more than ruins, it was once one of the largest and most important cities in Greece. In its heydey, its population topped 90,000. Over the centuries it fell under the rule of the Bacchiadae, the tyrants and the Ottomans. It survived its fair share of wars, with a devastating earthquake finally bringing the city to its knees in 1858.