Argos: Excursions near Argos

Northwest of Argos, the citadel of Larissa stands on the crest of a low mountain.  It is worth a visit -- an asphalt road goes all the way up -- to admire the Frankish and Venetian fortifications, as well as the view, which is especially impressive at sunset when the colors run riot.  There is a monastery on the hillside, the Virgin Concealed or the Virgin of the Rock.

South of Argos the road leads to Kefalari, a lush area with several springs.  The spreading plane trees, running water, and tavernas will hold you in their grasp for hours by offering those simple Greek pleasures of shade, fresh air, good food, and relaxation.

To the east, another road goes to the village of Merbaka (Agia Triada), with its 12th century Byzantine church, and from there on to the hamlets of Manesi and Dendra.  From Dendra a path takes you to the top of a hill and the Mycenaean acropolis of Midea.  Here, too, you will find huge Cyclopean walls.  According to myth, the walls at Mycenae (Mikines), Tyrins, and Midea were built by a tribe of men descended from the Cyclops.

Nine kilometers (six miles) outside Argos the road leads to the slopes of Mt. Evvia where, built on an outcropping, stand the ruins of the Heraion (Ireon), dedicated to Hera, one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity.  In the uncluttered beauty of the scenery, emotions and memories connected with the worship of the goddess still linger.