SPETSES
The Island of Spetses was called Pityoussa in ancient times; it is located in the Argosaronic Gulf, very close to the Peloponnese and is a very small island, rich in historical and cultural heritage. The island was not permanently inhabited until at least the seventeenth century AD because of pirate raids, but the islanders developed a strong fleet in defence of the island. Thanks to Spetses' economic and commercial development, the island also flourished culturally with the construction of marvellous stately homes, schools, and the arts. Lascarina Bouboulina is a very important historical figure and symbol on the island, whose remains are kept in a museum.
Places to visit
The most interesting and picturesque port town on Spetses is Dapia, it is a delightful place to stroll around and relax. It is also where the island's social life happens as private boats dock there. From the port boats take visitors to the bays around the island and to the Bekiri cave. Cars do not circulate on Spetses and the traditional atmosphere on the island is maintained. In Spetses there are some very interesting artistic and cultural places to visit, such as the Byzantine works, folk art and churches of Aghios Nikolaos, Needles Pandes, the Anarghyrios school.
Festivals
The beaches on Spetses can be reached by boat or on foot and all have crystal clear sea and sand. A popular event on the island is the Armata Festival in September, where the island commemorates the destruction of the Turkish fleet during the Greek revolution, wooden boats are blown up and fireworks let off to create a great atmosphere.