If one finds themselves with extra time in Athens, an interesting side trip is to Poseidon’s Temple.  Located about 30 miles (an hour+ drive) southeast of Athens – guarding the entrance to Piraeus – the temple stands high above the sea as Poseidon (Olympian God of the Sea) might have wanted it.  While there is evidence of sanctuaries on the cape from as early as the 11th century BC, the Temples of Athena and Poseidon were built around 400-450 BC.  As is true of all the sites around Greece, these temples went thru many iterations and periods of destruction by the latest conqueror.  Still a sight to see – and great views – –

Remains of Poseiden’s Temple.

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E finally got the opportunity to test the water during lunch with Poseidon’s Temple in the background.

After a full day away from the ship – and historic Athens – the Wind Surf pulled away to begin the second portion of the cruise.

Bye bye Athen’s Port Piraeus – one more time.

First stop on the second leg of this journey – Monemvasia.  This medieval city is built entirely on a rock that appears to be barren when seen from the mainland and difficult to see from the sea as it is built entirely of rock that blends into its foundation.  There was/is one entrance into the city – via the gateway one enters today – making entry easily regulated.  The city sits mid-way up the rock, making it impossible to access from the sea up the steep sides 100’s of feet.  Today – a very quaint little retreat from the world in a beautiful, 13th century setting.

Why do we want to see this rock…wait ’til you see the other side.

One way in or out.

The town sits right on the ocean.

The 13th century city mid-way up the cliffs to the ancient site on top of the cliffs.

To one’s back in this plaza is the sheer wall that leads down several hundred feet to the sea.

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A quick snack to get us to lunch.

After a walk about the town, a terrific lunch and a bit of shopping it was time to return to our anchored ship in Gytheio.  An ATM and ice tea were sorely needed – so there was a quick stop at a little taverna on the dock where octopus could be seen being prepared for dinner – –

This local delicacy is lost on the two of us.

As quick as that, the day was over and it was on to Katakolon, the port city for Olympia!!  Can’t wait for this outing.

Another beautiful dinner view.

E & G – off to another adventure