Hike· Aegina· Greece — Ionian, Saronic & Argolic

Paleochora Ghost Village

37° 45.1′ N · 23° 29.4′ E

Aegina's abandoned medieval capital on a hillside opposite the Agios Nektarios monastery — dozens of tiny Byzantine chapels, some with 14th-century frescoes, scattered among the ruins of a Venetian castle.

Practical

Cobbled paths link the chapels; sources count anywhere from about 20 to over 35 surviving (Greeka: 33). Fortifications completed in 1462; abandoned after about 1826. About 7 km from Aegina town; a roughly 1-hour hike from Souvala harbour, or a short walk from the monastery. A free 'Lampri' celebration with food and music is held near Timios Stavros church every Easter Monday. Bring water and sun protection.

Best for

Half-day hike through medieval Aegina