Aegio is the second largest city of
Achaia.
It is built amphitheatrically on the western coast of the
Bay
of Corinth. It is a commercial and industrial place and it has been referred
to as one of the most significant exporting ports of raisins and citrus ever since
1340 A.D.
Aegio, the capital of the province of
Aegialia,
has known long periods of flourishing becoming the starting point of historical
events of definitive importance. Going back to prehistoric times it is referred
to as the capital of the Achaean Confederation. It is assumed that the Achaeans
set off from there for their expedition to
Troy.
The famous church of Panagia Trypiti is located on the waterfront,
whereas the
Monastery of Taxiarckhes
is very close to Aegio. Historical and artistic treasures of immense importance
are kept in the Museum of the Monastery. Across the valley on the right bank of
the
River Selinous is built
the
Convent of Pepelenitsa,
erected in the 15th century.
Beautiful neoclassical buildings impress a distinguished view of the
city on the visitor. Some of these are rare works of art constructed to the design
of Ernst Ziller (the Holy Metropolis of Aegio, the Palaia Agora etc.). In Psila
Alonia, the central square of Aegio, a tourist will not only enjoy a panoramic
view over the azure blue water of the
Bay
of Corinth and the shoreline of
Sterea
Ellas across the other side, but one will experience the vigorous pace of
a live city that does not forget its tradition.
Ancient
Helike was founded eastern of Aegio. It was an important religious and cultural
centre in antiquity, sunk in the
Bay
of Corinth in 373 B.C.
Fteri (set in
an altitude of 1150 m. against the backdrop of the unique beauty of a popular
fir forest),
Loggos,
Selianitika,
Lambiri, and other coastal
villages with exceptional beaches and cosmopolitan atmosphere, are all located
within a short distance from Aegio.
The famous cogwheel train starting from
Diakopto,
east of Aegio, terminates in
Kalavryta
following the spectacular canyon of the
River
Vouraikos.
At this point continues E4, the European Trail of Long Distances,
one of the most important walking courses in Europe, which can be covered any
time throughout the year, thanks to the mild climate of the area.
This text (extract) is cited March 2004 from the Prefecture
of Achaia tourist pamphlet (1999).
