TRAVEL - GREECE - HOLIDAYS - GREEK ISLANDS - HOTELS - OLYMPICS 2004 ATHENS

AEGINA - GREECE - ARGOSARONIC ISLANDS

This island of Aegina (Egina), which is the largest of the Argosaronic Islands, is an extremely popular holiday destination for both visitors from abroad as well as Greeks.

Situated just a short distance from Athens, there are ferry boats that leave the port of Pireaus on an hourly basis, taking travellers to this delightful, and very interesting island.

Aegina is an island with great historical importance, and is one that is home to some very impressive ancient temples and ruins. On Aegina, two of the most important sites that all visitors should visit are the "Temple of Aphaia" and the "Temple of Apollo".

The "Temple of Aphaia" is one of the best preserved Hellenic temples to be found anywhere in the world. The temple was actually built to form what was known as the "sacred triangle", which shared its points with the most famous temples in Greece, the Parthenon, and the temple of Poseidon, that is located at Cape Sounion.

Aegina is a very beautiful island, which is a great destination for lovers of history and archaeology. It is also perfect for those who like beautiful scenery and inspiring views out towards the blue waters of the Saronic Gulf.

There are many nice beaches found all around Aegina, and these are very popular with visitors during the summer months. On several of these beaches, you can enjoy some water sports, as well as sailing, that is very popular. On arriving at Aegina, you will see the harbour filled with boats and yachts or all shapes and sizes.

What makes Aegina a popular destination is the fact that it is so close to Athens. It can make a wonderful day break or even weekend break, where visitors to Athens, who may be short on time, are able to experience the magic and beauty of the Greek Islands.

There are a wide selection of hotels and rooms to let located all around the island, as well as cafes and bars, restaurants and tavernas, and also car and bike hire facilities.

There are many interesting and pretty towns around Aegina, including Aegina Town which is home to the famous white chapel of Agios Nikolaos. This pretty town, with the red tiled roofs, and large structures is often the first port of call to those visiting the island.

There are also other towns and villages on the island such as Souvala, Agia Marina, Perdika and Vagia, which are all worth visiting if you have the chance.

Aegina is a wonderful introduction to the nature and inspiration of the Greek Islands, and is one of both extreme natural beauty, as well of it's historic importance. Aegina was actually the first capital of Greece, after the "War of Independence". The Governor, Kapodistrias, was sworn in on the 12th January 1828. On the 3rd of October of that year, the capital was transferred to Nafplio in the Peloponnese, before being transferred to Athens a year later.

It is an island that attracts a huge number of visitors each year, and when you arrive, you will see why so many find Aegina their ideal Greek Island.






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