SALAMIS (Area 95 km2 , length of coastline 104 km).
Salamis, on account of its strategic position in Athens' 'embrace', was an 'apple of discord' between the Athenians and the Megarians in the historical period. The most important event in the island's past was the naval battle fought in its straits, between the Greek and the Persian fleet during the Persian Wars (480 BC), in which the invaders suffered an ignominious defeat. Salamis was also the birthplace of the tragic poet Euripides. The island's capital is Salamina or Koulouri. The Salamis Archaeological Museum houses finds from the area. In the Folklore Museum there are local costumes, tools, vessels and ether objects. About 6 km NW of the town is the Phaneromeni Monastery, with rich wall-paintings, a collection of ecclesiastical treasures, an icon-painting and a weaving workshop, as well as a hospice. The earliest archaeological site on the island is at Ambelakia, 4 km SE of Salamina. The naval battle of Salamis was fought here. Selinia is located 8 km SE of the town. The seaside village of Moulki or Aianteio is 6 km SW of the town in an area of pine woods. The recently explored Cave of Euripides, at Peristeria, has not only yielded significant finds but is also the place where tradition relates that the poet withdrew to write his tragedies. How to get there: By ferryboat: From Piraeus daily, frequent services in the summer to Paloukia, Selinia, Kamatero, Peristeria. Also services from Perama to Paloukia and from Nea Perama, Megara to Phaneromeni, Salamis.


Salamis. Photo: Kostas Natsidis


Salamis. Photo: Kostas Natsidis

Source: Greek National Tourism Organisation