Gythio, Yithion - a town and former municipality in Greece in the Peloponnese periphery. Following the 2011 administrative reform, it became a municipal unit and the seat of the municipality of East Mani.
In ancient times, the city was a seaport of Sparta, located 40 km north of Gythio, until the 4th century AD, when, it is believed, the city was destroyed by a strong earthquake.
Gythio is located in the north-eastern part of the Mani peninsula and on the north-western coast of the Gulf of Lakonikos. The town was built on a hill called Koumaros or Larissio, in one of the most fertile areas of the peninsula, near the mouth of the Gythium River, which, as a rule, was always drying up, hence the nickname “Xerias,” meaning “dry.” Today, the Hermou Avenue runs along most of the riverbed. Further to the north-east lies the delta of the Evrotas River. Off the coast of Gythio, there are several small islands, the largest of which is Kranai, connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Locals call their little town the Land of the Gods - this is exactly what the name Gythio means. Here, everything is in place to make your отдых unforgettable: warm waters of the Lakonia bay, the gentlest sand on the beaches, wonderful views. This is one of Greece’s most popular tourist centers, and people come here not only for blissful beach relaxation and much-desired seclusion. A calm, laid-back vacation can and should be combined with sightseeing of precious ancient artifacts, enjoying local wine and food.
From Gythio, it is very convenient to take an excursion to Ancient Sparta - the ruins of the ancient city located near modern Sparta. The modern city of Sparta was founded in 1834. It is the administrative center of the Lakonia prefecture. In general, the local population is engaged in agriculture. Sparta is famous for its olive groves and the processing of citrus fruits.
Ancient Sparta was the most significant military power in Greece and played an important role in the history of the Peloponnese. Although the ancient Spartans were not interested in the art of philosophy and left us no written works, they have forever entered history and earned respect for their valor, courage, and preservation of Greek values. The word “Spartan” has become a byword, synonymous with strict and harsh upbringing to which Spartan youths were subjected during the period when this city rivaled Athens, being one of the main Greek poleis.
ClimateThe climate is subtropical. The Peloponnese is the southernmost point of Greece. Winters are mild, with temperatures of +12…+13 degrees. Summers are pleasant, not too hot, refreshed by trade winds. Summer air temperature is +30…+33 degrees, and the sea water is +23…+27 degrees. A characteristic feature of the local climate is the large number of sunny days throughout the year.
