The temple whose remains we see today was build on the same spot out of limestone from the vicinity. Traces of the Original temple can be seen in the foundations of this Doric building.

On the same site there are also ruins of the propylon, altar and parts of the sanctuary.

Aphaia, a goddess little known to the Greeks, was subsequently replaced by Athena, to encourage them during the Trojan War Scenes from that epic conflict are depicted on the temple pediments.

This is why the temple is known today as Aphaia-Athena Finds excavated in the area, such as sculptures, pottery and the like are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Aegina. The fine arts, and especially sculpture, blossomed on the island from earliest times and the Aeginetan workshop had an established reputation by the 6^th and 5^th century.

The Middle Ages also left their mark on Aegina. Just 6.5 km from the port, opposite the monastery of Agios Nektanos, there is a low hill covered with the ruins of the abandoned city of Palaiohora. This was the capital of the island from the 9^th to early 19^th century. Crowning the summit are the remnants of the medieval castle where the population sought refuge during pirate raids. In its heyday, Palaiohora could survive, many with memorable wall paintings.

Another interesting landmark is the monastery of the Virgin Chryssoleontissa on the road to Marathon, Dating from 1600, this monastery is built in a style reminiscent of the fortified monasteries of Mount Athos. The church possesses a splendid carved iconostasis.

Apart from antiquities, the island has much to offer in the way of sandy beaches for sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts, along with delightful fishing villages, and a richly varied landscape. This is why the island of Aegina is a well known holiday retreat visited during summer and winter season, especially by Greeks. Its proximity to Athens and the port of Pireas has set Aegina a famous weekend holiday place as well.

South of the capital is the seaside village of Marathon, followed by the fishing port of Perdika (9 km.). From Perdika small boats ferry visitors to the picturesque islets of Angistri and Moni ideal spots for enjoying nature, solitude and relaxing pursuits. The road to the northeast of the island cuts through pistachio and olive groves to the village of Kipseli and the small basilica of St. Theodore (1282). It then proceeds to the seaside hamlet of Souvala, winding up at Agia Marina (14 km), a village known for its long sandy beach, the biggest on Aegina, it is the most popular resort on the island.

Nowadays Aegina is famous for its pistachios and its ceramics.

From Piraeus there are daily ferries to Aegina, Hydra, Poros and Spetses. For information call 210/4511311- 4226000
For Salamina, the ferry leaves from Perama. For information call 210 4413178.
Smaller boats also link the Peloponnese at Galatas, Ermioni and Kosta with Poros, Hydra and Spetses respectively.

BY FERRY OR HYDROFOIL		BY SAILING BOAT

All the islands except for Salamina are also served by hydrofoils, the Flying Dolphins.
Those for Aegina leave from Piraeus (210 4591423), while those for Poros, Hydra and Spetses leave from Zea Marina 210/4280001
There are yacht refueling stations at Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spetses For information call. 210 4182236, 210 4181640.

Please check timetables and ticket availability through our on line ferry ticket reservation system.

Sailing Trips of one or more weeks can be arranged on previous (early) notice. A tour of all the Saronic Gulf islands including the surrounding areas can take place from as early as March till late November. Please click HERE to get more information on availability and rates. Pick up place can be either Pireas port or any other port of Greece (e.g. in Cyclades or the Peloponnese).