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... traditional settlements coexist along with fascinating archaeological sites...
In the Prefecture of Ilia, at northwestern eloponnese, one may encounter captivating sandy beaches, unique hydrobiotopes, rich and bushy forests, natural springs and traditional settlements coexist harmoniously with magnificent archaeological sites, historical monuments and Byzantine monasteries.
Capital of the Prefecture is Pyrgos city, next which lies the picturesque port of Katakolo where large cruisers are driven ashore on a daily basis. Also, the area has a technologically advanced marina.
In a 15-klm distance from Pyrgos lies Ancient Olympia, one of the most important historical sites of Ancient Greece worldwide. It is this site where ancient Greeks organised the Olympic Games for 1.200 years consistently in honour of Zeus.
According to the mythology, the founder of the Olympic Games was Hercules and many of his legends refer to the wider area of Ilia.
Apart form Ancient Olympia, one may also discover the live, virgin and primordial nature, full of legends and traditions, that gave birth to the Olympic Games.
Ilia has 120 klm of enchanting sandy coast, the beautiful Kaifa and Pineios lakes, the Kotihi lagoon, the Strofilia forest, the unique in beauty pine forest of Foloeis, and many well preserved traditional settlements with hospitable hostels, such as the one of Andritsaina and of Divri.
The rivers of Ilia namely Alfeios, Nedas, Erymanthos, Tritonas, Milaonas, Phneios etc., are full of gorges and waterfalls, archaeological sites, watermills and stone bridges. One may go Rafting, Hydrospeed, Canoe Kayak, River Treking, Canyoning Bike, Jeep Sagari, arapente and Trekking at very attractive pathways.
The water springs of Kaifa and Kyllini are one of the most important in Greece. Annually, many festivities take place in Ilia, such as "THE AGROTOURISM FESTIVALS," including the Pan Hellenic Exhibition of Traditional and Biological products, activities and outdoor sports, River Party, reifications of legends at the natural sites, theatres, concerts, etc.
Next to the Port of Kyllini, from where one may visit the Zakynthos and Kefallonia islands, lies one of the most well reserved castles, the Hlemoutsi castle. Also, next to it lies the archaeological site of Ancient Ilida, organizer-city of the Olympic Games.
Scattered across the Prefecture of Ilia are significant Byzantine and Pro Byzantine Monasteries, such as the Monastery of Mother Mary "Kremasti," the Monastery of Skafidia, of Vlacheron, of Sepetou and the one of Fragkavila.