Perhaps a fifteen-minute ferry ride is all it takes to reach Salaminos from Perama port. Salaminos is Attica’s largest island. It sits just off the coast of Piraeus. This proximity makes Salaminos an ideal destination for a day trip.
Salaminos boasts a unique past. It offers beautiful beaches and ancient monuments. You will find museums and churches here. Monasteries and archaeological sites also dot the landscape.
According to Greek mythology, Salamis was a nymph. Poseidon carried her away. She lived on the island. The mythical ruler Ajax lived here. The prolific dramatist Euripides called Salaminos home.
Imagine the naval battle of Salamis. It took place just off the island’s coast. The Greek fleet defeated the invading Persians in 480 BC. Victory preserved Greek civilization. It allowed its spread throughout the world.
Throughout history, Salaminos has been known by many names. It was called Pityousa. This name comes from the pine tree. It was also known as Skiras. This comes from the hero Skiros. Kychreia was another name. This refers to King Kychreas. It was also known as Koulouri. This comes from the ancient cape. The fourth-century-BC town and port were built here.
Excavations in Salaminos have uncovered significant finds. There is the Cave of Euripides. The poet wrote most of his works here. You can also find the Mycenaean Acropolis in Kanakia. Don’t miss the Kingdom of Ajax. And of course the Sanctuary of Dionysus.
Many prominent personalities lived here. Ajax was from here. Euripides too. Georgios Karaiskakis lived here temporarily. Angelos Sikelianos also called Salaminos home.
Consider visiting the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Lemonion. It dates back to the 17th century. Visit the chapel of Agios Ioannis Kalyvitis. It dates back to the 10th century. Both are amid a pine forest near Kanakia.
Explore the Cave of Euripides. It is on the southern part of the island. Find it in the settlement of Peristeria. The cave overlooks Peristeria Bay. Tradition says Euripides was born here. It was 480 BC. It was the day of the Battle of Salamina.
Two windmills stand tall. They are on the Hill of Agios Nikolaos. They face Patris Hill. They were built during the first years of the Revolution. Once there were 14.
Visit the Kingdom of Ajax. It is the Homeric capital of Salaminos. It lies to the south. Find it in Kanakia. It is amid a forested area overlooking the beach.
The Monastery of Virgin Mary Faneromeni is on the western part of the island. It played a role during Greece’s War of Independence in 1821. The main church depicts 3597 figures of saints.
The Church of Agios Dimitrios is in the city center of Salamina. It was founded in 1806. It is a three-aisled domed basilica. Giannoulis Halepas carved the pulpit and throne. Polychronis Lempesis painted the frescoes. The Tomb of Karaiskakis is here. He was mortally wounded here.
The House of Angelos Sikelianos is dazzling white. It houses the bust of the poet. He lived here with his second wife Anna. He wrote some of his most remarkable pieces here.
The Euripidean Theatre has a capacity of 3000. It hosts cultural events. It adds glamour to summer nights. It has a view of the bay. The Battle of Salamina took place here.
The Museum of History and Folk Art gives a glimpse into the island’s past. It shows the everyday life of its inhabitants. Find it in the new city hall.
The Archeological Museum of Salamina has finds from the Cave of Euripides. It has finds from other excavations. It is in the old 1st Elementary School.
The Metrological Relief consists of a slab of limestone. It has embossed depictions of parts of the human body. These represent units of measure. It was found in Vasilika. It is built into the wall of the church of Agios Dimitrios.
As you leave Salaminos remember its history. Think about its beauty. Recall its famous residents. Let the spirit of Salaminos stay with you.