Ancient Corinth Half Day Private Tour from Athens

The Corinth Canal is a strategic, man-made waterway in Greece, cutting through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth to connect the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. Completed in 1893 after several failed attempts dating back to ancient times, the canal is 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) long and 21.4 meters (70 feet) wide at its base. It significantly reduces the maritime travel distance by 700 kilometers (430 miles), avoiding the lengthy circumnavigation of the Peloponnese peninsula.

The successful completion in the 19th century was a significant engineering feat, symbolizing the triumph of modern technology over ancient ambitions. Despite its narrow width limiting the size of vessels that can navigate it, the canal remains a vital maritime route for smaller ships and a popular tourist attraction, highlighting Greece's rich history and engineering prowess.

The historical site of ancient Corinth, located on the narrow stretch of land connecting mainland Greece with the Peloponnese, was a major city in antiquity renowned for its wealth and strategic location. Key landmarks include the Temple of Apollo, one of Greece's oldest Doric temples, and the impressive Acrocorinth, a fortified hill providing defense and spectacular views.

Corinth thrived as a commercial hub, facilitated by its two ports, Lechaeum and Kenchreai, linking trade routes between the Aegean and Adriatic seas. The city was also famous for the Isthmian Games, held in honor of Poseidon. In Roman times, Corinth became a significant administrative center.

Excavations reveal a vibrant city with public buildings, shops, and fountains, reflecting its prosperity. The ancient city is also significant in Christian history, as the Apostle Paul visited and wrote two epistles to the Corinthians, contributing to its rich historical tapestry.

The Temple of Apollo in ancient Corinth, built in the 6th century BCE, is one of the earliest Doric temples in Greece. It originally featured 38 monolithic columns, each standing about 7 meters (23 feet) tall, of which seven remain today. The temple, dedicated to Apollo, the god of music, prophecy, and healing, was constructed on a hill overlooking the city, symbolizing its religious and cultural significance. Its imposing structure and architectural style reflect the prosperity and artistic achievement of ancient Corinth.

The Bema of Saint Paul in ancient Corinth is a prominent archaeological site where the Apostle Paul is believed to have stood trial around 52 CE, as described in the Acts of the Apostles. The bema, an elevated platform in the city's Roman forum, was used for public addresses and judicial purposes. This site holds significant historical and religious importance, symbolizing Paul's missionary efforts and the spread of Christianity in Greece. Today, it features inscriptions and remains a focal point for Christian pilgrimage.

The Archaeological Museum of Corinth, located on the site of ancient Corinth, houses an extensive collection of artifacts spanning from the prehistoric period to Roman times. Highlights include statues, mosaics, pottery, and inscriptions, reflecting the city's rich history. Notable exhibits are the marble statues of Roman emperors and the intricate floor mosaics depicting mythological scenes. The museum's layout is designed to complement the adjacent ruins, providing a comprehensive understanding of Corinth's cultural and historical significance.

Acrocorinth, the acropolis of ancient Corinth, is a massive and strategically significant fortress situated on a rocky hill towering over the city, approximately 575 meters (1,886 feet) high. It served as a primary defense site from ancient Greek times through the medieval period. Acrocorinth's fortifications include walls, gates, and towers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding region. The site also housed temples, such as the Temple of Aphrodite, and later, churches and mosques, reflecting its diverse historical usage.