Areopoli
Areopoli features on the Gingerguide audio walk through Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani. Give it roughly ~60 min: enough to look, hear a two to three minute story on the spot, and ask the AI guide whatever the story leaves open.
- Type village
- Suggested visit ~60 min
- Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani guide
About Areopoli
Areopoli, the stone town of the Mani, where tradition says the Maniots raised the first flag of the Greek War of Independence on 17 March 1821, with tower houses and a tall church belfry.
Called Tsimova until the early twentieth century, the town took the name Areopoli, after Ares, the god of war, or after its winds. By tradition, on 17 March 1821 Petros Mavromichalis, the bey of Mani, raised the flag of revolt in the main square. The town keeps fortified houses and churches of the Mavromichalis families and the Taxiarches church with its belfry of 1836.
Areopoli is an open town to walk in an hour or two, with a Saturday street market. Many churches are rarely open, and some cafés and guesthouses close in winter.
Did you know? Areopoli was called Tsimova until the early twentieth century; its present name is said to come from Ares, the Greek god of war.
How long is a visit to Areopoli?
Set aside roughly ~60 min for Areopoli. That covers a good look and the narrated story, and because you set the pace you can always stay on.
Is Areopoli worth your time?
Areopoli is among the 13 narrated highlights the Gingerguide team chose for Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani, so it is worth a look. Hear the story for the context, then ask the AI guide for anything more.
Nearby stops in Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani
Sources and further reading
Where to check the facts about Areopoli and read more:
Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani guide →
Day 2 of the Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Areopoli
Preview the Mystras, Monemvasia & the Mani tour free in the Gingerguide app.