 Patra
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Patras, the capital of Achaia, is a city with a long and rich history, having played a significant role in the events of Greece throughout all historical periods.
It is located in the northwestern Peloponnese, 220 km from Athens.
Patras is a beautiful city and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The city boasts many natural beauties that pleasantly surprise every visitor, along with numerous historical monuments that reveal facets of its eventful historical journey.
During your tour of the Achaian capital, you will be impressed by its squares. Notable among them are the square of Agios Georgios and the square of the Three Alliances, featuring the famous clock.
Important landmarks also include the city¢s Castle, which rises on the site of the Ancient Acropolis at the top of Mount Panachaiko, and the famous Church of Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Patras, which is one of the most magnificent churches in Greece.
Patras is an economic, tourist, and transportation hub where all commercial activities flourish. The city¢s development follows a consistently upward trajectory.
The city¢s port plays a key role in this growth, serving as a vital link between the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, and Italy. Its contribution to the city¢s overall development has always been decisive. Historically, the port was crucial for the regional economy, acting as a crossroads for passing ships.
Today, it serves thousands of people, and with modern technological advances, the lines are serviced by state-of-the-art ships. It is one of Greece¢s most important commercial hubs, opening all routes for trade and acting as a gateway to Europe.
Brief Historical Overview
The history of Patras dates back to prehistoric times, specifically the second millennium B.C.
Achaia got its name from the ancient inhabitants of Greece, the Achaeans.
Patras, the capital of Achaia, was named after Patreus, the leader of the Achaeans in the 12th century B.C.
In the 3rd century B.C., the Achaeans organized the famous Achaean League, which became the first organized political federation in Greece.
In the 1st century A.D., Saint Andrew visited the city, was martyred there, and has since become its patron saint.
During the Greek Revolution of 1821, the region of Achaia played a significant role in the liberation of Greeks from Ottoman rule.
During the 19th century, Patras developed into an important commercial and industrial center, serving as a main export point to Western Europe.
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