Location information

MONEMVASSIA (Village) LACONIA
  Surrounded by walls and built on the southern slopes of the headland, which the Byzantines separated, leaving only a narrow causeway (hence its name in Greek, "single passage"), Monemvassia still retains much of its former medieval character. For this reason perhaps it has now become popular with artists and world celebrities.
  Monemvassia was founded in the 6th century A.D. and has since suffered the domination of Normans, Franks, Venetians and Turks, all of whom made additions to the fortifications of the city.
  The stately old mansions and 40 old Byzantine churches, some well preserved, others not, in the Lower Town reflect the power and prosperity which Monemvassia enjoyed for centuries under her various rulers. Of the churches within the old city, that of Agios Nikolaos (18th cent.) and Elkomenou Christou, which is Venetian in part, are certainly worth a short visit. A paved pathway leads to the summit of the hill and the castle, which overlooks the town below. Round the castle are a number of Byzantine towers and several beautiful Byzantine churches in the whole of Greece, built in the same style as that at Dafni near Athens. It is the 13th century church of Agia Sofia, which welcomes its visitors to enjoy the beauty of art in a natural setting.
  The once rich vineyards of the region which produced the renowned Malmsey wine are no longer cultivated, but this is not to say that Monamvassia is without wine - necessary accompaniment to the red mullet and lobster for which it is famous.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Greek National Tourism Organization tourist pamphlet (1980).