Gerolimenas
Gerolimenas < sacred port
Mani Peninsula
Settlements with stone towers
The built environment of Mani is defined by stone family towers adjoined by stone buildings used for domestic purposes. The tower itself served as a hiding point for the family during times of fights (local vendettas). Thus, the medieval Mani settlements are conceived as complexes of these family structures and appear as labyrinths for the intruder.
Byzantine churches
Mani has a large number of beautiful byzantine stone churches, some of which are very well preserved and feature amazing frescoes in their interior.
Cape Tainaro and the Gates of Hades
Tainaron is the southeast point of Mani where the ancient Greeks built a temple for Poseidon of Tainaron. It was believed that at this point lied the gates of Hades to the underworld. Today travelers can walk on a 40-minute path that leads to the lighthouse of Cape Tainaron, where the chapel of Asomatos (necromancy) and a roman bath with a mosaic floor are located.
Beaches
Top 5 from north to south:
- Mezapos – Fishing boat’s bay
- Yialia – Quiet sandy beach with two bays
- Almiros – Peppled beach with rocks and caves
- Porto Kagio – Quiet east facing village with a beach
- Marmari – sandy beach with a beautiful sunset