Souvala
can be reached directly by ferry from Piraeus or it can easily be found
by taking the coast road north and east from Aegina Town for about 10
km. Until
about the 1950s it was simply a fishing village but over the last 50
years has grown in response to tourism in the area. However, unlike
some other places Souvala retains the atmosphere and flavour of Greece.
Aegina's Second main port
Today
you will find a crescent shaped harbour area with fishing boats moored
and the second main port after Aegina Town. Indeed, there are
several large ferries from and to Pireaus port which stop here. This
means that many Athenians and people from the mainland come to Souvala
which may explain why you will find a more genuine Greek experience
here.
Summer holiday village
Souvala can be used as your base for a holiday since there are several
hotels and private houses and apartments to rent. In the harbour
area you will find a selection of tavernas and cafes which overlook
the sea. There are also shops, a supermarket, and newsagents.
The town is especially popular in the high season
with Greek visitors from Athens. Indeed, it is in the high season
that the town bustles with a holiday atmosphere. Families and
couples stroll along the 'paralia', which is the paved area along the
harbour, to enjoy the setting sun. At night, you can see the
lights of Attiki, Piraeus and the Athenian Coast.
Beaches & watersports
There is a small beach at Souvala and other places to bathe at the
beaches close by (for example at Agii or Vagia).
The coast of Souvala follows the configuration of the northern
morphology of the island: most of the beaches have shallow waters with
sandy bottoms. The wind on the northern part of the island is ideal
for windsurfing.
Events
More recently an association of businesses in the area has been formed
to promote the town. In August 2007 there was a very successful
photo competition which was accompanied by live music after, dancing
in the street and a great atmosphere. Look out for more events
in 2008!
Souvala
The name of the town is derived from the man-made underground water
tanks including those ancient cisterns found in the rocks near 'Therma'. These
are the mineral water springs located to the eastern edge of the town
and have been known since antiquity. The spa with its mineral
laden waters is one of the best known in Europe. Its curative
powers extend to the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism, skin and digestive
problems. Unfortunately in recent years the spa has been closed
but it is hoped to be opened again.
History
The town - earlier called Aegena - has existed as a
settlement since before Byzantine times. During
the 900 year period from 900 to 1800 AD Souvala dealt with most commercial
traffic when the pirates forced the people inland to the hillside village
of Paliochora. When Palaiochora was the capital of Aegina, it
was Souvala that served all the sea traffic of the island. Souvala
was for the first half of the 20th Century, the main port of Aegina
exporting products such as grapes, sponges and carob.
Walking
Today Souvala is a good choice for a relaxing holiday in a traditional
location or even for a day trip. When you are staying take the opportunity
to make interesting walks through the small mountains of Agious Souvala
or walk up to Palea Chora, visit Agios
Nektarios or even continue walking
to the Afaia Temple. Feel
the beauty of nature and enjoy the great panoramic views you will have
while walking.
If you have specific questions about the Souvala area
please send an email to the president of the business club of Souvala,
Petros Petritis - info@souvala.gr.
