Gytheio

Built amphitheatrically at the west coast of the Laconic Gulf, it stands out for its colorful neoclassic mansions and a mesmerizing island atmosphere.

A photo of the port of Gytheio with small fishing boats and a part of the settlement in the background.
photo: Guillén Pérez / CC BY-ND 2.0

Gytheio Why visit?

  • According to ancient geographer Pausanias, Gytheio literally means the Land of Gods.
  • On their way to Troy, Paris and Helen spent a night here.
  • Famous for the production of oranges, olives, and extra virgin olive oil.

Gytheio Attractions

The front side and the main entrance of the Cultural Center (previously a girls' school) of Gytheio.
photo: Municipality of Eastern Mani
#1

Cultural Center (Old Girls' School)

With its three exhibitions - on local products, history, and tourist attractions - this is the best place to start your journey in Mani.

A picture showing the white Town Hall of Gytheio - a rectangular building with a cubic top floor.
photo: Albtalkourtaki at German Wikipedia
#2

Town Hall of Gytheio

Restored 1891 building of neoclassical architecture that dominates the seafront. It was designed by Ernst Ziller.

A picture of the Seafront Promenade and Port of Gytheio by old-style buildings.
photo: Luu
#3

Promenade & Marina of Gytheio

Walking at the seafront promenade, you will be impressed by the neoclassical mansions, the views, and the aristocratic atmosphere.

A picture showing the Lighthouse of Gytheio on Cranae Island.
photo: Alehins / CC BY 2.0
#4

Gytheio Lighthouse

Cranae Island

A 23 meters-high white marble lighthouse built in 1873 on the island where legendary Paris and beautiful Helen found refuge three millennia ago.

A picture showing a part of the Tzannetakis Tower on Cranae Island among vegetation and trees.
photo: I, Sailko / CC BY-SA 3.0
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#5

Tzannetakis Tower

Cranae Island

The governor of Mani, Tzannetakis, built this fort in 1829 at Cranae island. It's well-preserved and today it's used as an ethnological museum.

A picture showing the remains of the Ancient Theater of Gytheio.
photo: Maesi64
#6

Ancient Theater of Gytheio

A Roman monument of the 2nd century AD located at the foothills of the ancient acropolis, excavated initially in 1891.

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