HJEKE2 Panoramic view to the ruins of Paleohora, the old capital of the Aegina island located in the Saronic gulf, near Athens, Greece
HJEKE2
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Paleohora

Top choice in Aegina


This enchanting remote hillside is dotted with the remains of a Byzantine village. More than 30 surviving churches punctuate the rocky heights of the original citadel, and several have been refurbished. They are linked by a network of paths, carpeted with wildflowers in spring. The ancient town of Paleohora was Aegina’s capital from the 9th century through the medieval period and was only abandoned during the 1820s.

Paleohora is 6.5km east of Aegina Town, near enormous modern monastery Moni Agiou Nektariou. Buses from Aegina Town to Agia Marina stop at the turn-off to Paleohora (10 minutes); taxis cost €8 one way.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Aegina attractions

1. Moni Agiou Nektariou

0.43 MILES

This large modern monastery in central Aegina marks the turn-off for the road to Paleohora Byzantine village and churches.

2. Moni Hrysoleontissas

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This imposing 17th-century monastery is in a remote central part of Aegina and is surrounded by high walls built by the monks to ward off pirates. At one…

3. Temple of Aphaia

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The well-preserved remains of this impressive temple stand proudly on a pine-covered hill with far-reaching views over the Saronic Gulf. Built in 480 BC,…

4. Temple of Ellanios Zeus

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This temple ruin sits on top of the mountain Ellanio Oros (532m) in the south of central Aegina.

5. Folklore Museum

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Peruse historical clothing, housewares and artwork recreating the mood of old-time island life.

6. Temple of Apollo

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Northwest of the port, ruined walls, cisterns and broken pillars in honey-coloured stone are lorded over by a solitary surviving column. It’s all that’s…

7. Christos Capralos Museum

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The home and studio of acclaimed sculptor Christos Capralos (1909–93), on the coast near Livadi, 1.5km north of Aegina Town, has been made into a museum…

8. Hellenic Maritime Museum

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As nautical museums go, this isn't one of the best, despite Greece’s long maritime history. Still, it does have all the requisite models of ancient and…