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Piraeus

Its ancient name was Kantharos. In medieval times it was also known as Porto Leone, a name due to the enormous stone lion, which guarded the port's entrance. Piraeus is the main port of Athens, the biggest in Greece and one of the most important in the Mediterranean Sea. Today, the life of Piraeus is centered on its three ports: the main, central one and those of Zea and Mikrolimano. Piraeus is the most important shipping, industrial and transport center of the country.

Themistokles was the first to realize the importance of Piraeus to the city of Athens and turn it into the city's main port, instead of the Gulf of Faliro, which was used by the Athenians until the 5th century B.C. Wanting Athens to have a fortified port he built the wall of Piraeus, the construction of which took from 493 to 479 B.C. Later Perikles completed the fortification by building the Makra Teiche (the Long Walls), which protected both sides of the road all the way from Piraeus to Athens.

In Piraeus, is Zea, whose marina is the place where some of the most impressive yachts and cruisers in Greece are moored. The coastline is full of restaurants, taverns, bars and shops catering for the needs of yachtsmen. This is also where you will find the Flying Dolphins (hovercrafts) if you want to go to the Saronic Gulf islands.

MIKROLIMANO is the port, which was once protected by the goddess Mounichia Artemis, and today, is a popular hangout for tourists. It is a lovely little harbour full of fishing boats, small vessels and some very beautiful yachts. If you like fish and seafood, try one of its famous taverns.

KASTELLA, built on a hill, which is also known as Prophetis Elias, Kastella is Piraeus' most fashionable neighborhood. If you walk towards the top of the hill you will find yourselves in narrow streets surrounded by picturesque houses. The view of the central harbour, Zea and Mikrolimano, from here is unique.

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