Corinth

Corinth is arguably one of the most strategically placed cities in the whole Mediterranean basin; the site of conquest and counter-conquest, siege and counter-siege for millennia. First it was one of the most powerful poli in ancient Greece, ruled by the formidable seafaring Corinthians, with their definitive column designs and high-perched Acropolis. Then came the Romans, and after them the Byzantines, eager to fend off barbarian tribesmen from the north. Today New Corinth stands just a little outside of the ancient town, rising in classic white-washed Greek facades from the deep blue of the gulf—just a stone’s throw from the soaring citadel (Acrocorinth) and deep-cut Isthmus (Corinth Canal) that made this place so coveted throughout its tumultuous life. From here the sprawling archaeological site of the old town is easily accessible by city bus, and interested guests should be sure to ask their Corinth tourist guide for tips on the ‘must see’ sites; the Temple of Apollo; the old marketplace; the crumbling Roman Odeum. Afterwards, get comfortable in one of the seaside bars that line the town’s northern fringe, dipping your toes in and out of the Med as you drink, or perhaps ponder that possible bungee jump into the nearby Corinth Canal.