Why Aegina
Aegina is a Greek island located in the Saronic Gulf, roughly 27 kilometers (17 miles) from Athens. Covering an area of 87.41 square kilometers, this triangular landmass spans approximately 15 kilometers from east to west and 10 kilometers from north to south. Its principal settlement and regional capital is Aegina town, situated on the northwestern coast, while other island communities include Kypseli, Mesagros, Perdika, Vathy, Agia Marina, and the eastern fishing village of Portes.
Geographically, an extinct volcano accounts for two-thirds of the island. The southern region is rugged, mountainous, and mostly barren, crowned by the conical Mount Oros at an elevation of 531 meters. Extending northward from the peak, the Panhellenian ridge is flanked by narrow, fertile valleys. In contrast, the northern and western sections feature stony yet fertile plains. Agricultural yields include grain, cotton, grapes, almonds, olives, figs, and pistachios, complemented by a local sponge fishing industry.
Rich in historical background, the island was a powerful classical city-state and maritime center, recognized as the first European city-state to produce coinage. Notable archaeological features include Kolonna, an Early Bronze Age fortified settlement containing a 16th-century BC purple dye workshop, alongside a Late Bronze Age refuge on Mount Ellanio. The island's built environment includes 19th-century structures that combine Neoclassical architecture with local folk elements.
Visitors can explore prominent sites such as the ancient Temple of Aphaia and the pilgrimage destination of St. Nektarios, or spend time at the island's beaches. Aegina experiences a hot semi-arid climate, with an average annual temperature of approximately 20.0 °C and annual rainfall under 340 millimeters. Due to its close proximity to the mainland, the island is a popular summer retreat, with many residents of Athens owning second homes in the area.
Travelers access Aegina via ferry from Piraeus, with hydrofoil services taking 40 minutes and conventional ferries taking about an hour. Upon arrival, regular bus routes connect Aegina town with settlements across the island, including Agia Marina.
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