Wednesday 21 March 2012

AEGINA ISLAND, GREECE

Aegina is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece in the Saronic Gulf, 27 km from Athens. Tradition derives the name from Aegina, the mother of Aeacus, who was born on and ruled the island. During ancient times, Aegina was a rival to Athens, the great sea power of the era. The capital is the town of Aegina (population ≈8,000), situated at the northwestern end of the island. Due to its proximity to Athens, it is a popular quick getaway during the summer months, with quite a few Athenians owning second houses on the island.

An extinct volcano constitutes two thirds of the roughly triangular island of Aegina. The northern and western side consist of stony but fertile plains, which are well cultivated and produce luxuriant crops of grain, with some cotton, vines, almonds, olives and figs, but the most characteristic crop of Aegina today (2000s) is the pistachio nut. Economically, the sponge fisheries are of notable importance. 
The southern volcanic part of the island is rugged and mountainous, and largely barren.

The beaches are also a popular tourist attraction. Hydrofoil ferries from Piraeus take only forty minutes to reach Aegina; the regular ferry takes about an hour, with ticket prices for adults within the 4-15 euro range. There are regular bus services from Aegina town to destinations throughout the island such as Agia Marina. Portes is a fishing village on the east coast.

This post is part of the Watery Wednesday meme,
and also part of the Outdoor Wednesday meme.















8 comments:

  1. What SPECTACULAR photos!! I think the fish are my fave...and then - there is something about the cafe with the blue chairs that I love...and the rowboat alone in the water tells a story too. This post was really a treat :)

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  2. You have the most awesome travel photos. Oh, just to go to TWO of the places you have been!

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  3. Beautiful photos as always Nick, at least i have some almost "personal" views of Greece even if i haven't been there. thanks.

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  4. What a romantic looking place. Awesome views!
    Joyce M

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  5. One of the many Greek Islands I would love to visit one day, glorious photos

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  6. I love photos of water. Especially if they have boats in them.
    Visiting from Outdoor Wednesday.

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  7. Need sun glasses to view these pictures:-). They really convey the feeling that you are there. The boat pictures are especially clear. I wonder what camera you were using for these. I so enjoyed seeing them.

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  8. We are on our way there next week and now I am as excited as ever. Thanks for the inspiring shots.

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I love to hear from you, so please comment. I appreciate constructive criticism as it improves my skills as an amateur photographer.