May 11, 2011: Day 3 in Greece-Ancient Corinth and Tolo


We got up for a lovely breakfast and packed up our belongings to head on the road. Walking through the streets of Athens was quiet due to government employee strikes. Please pray that the striking does not spread to the rest of Greece, as that may interfere with the rest of our plans. First stop on our trip was the Corinth Canal, which when completed in the 1890s provided a shorter and safer trade route between the Aegean and Ionian Seas.

Next we went to Acrocorinth, a fortress built on a massive hill above Corinth. Getting to the top took some work, but the view was well worth it. We were able to climb on the ruins and took some awesome photos. We also got to enjoy some rock climbing today! After spending some time at the top we headed down, which was much easier, and continued to Ancient Corinth. This is the location where Saint Paul preached to the Corinthians about cleaning up their act. He also wrote two books of the Bible there. Many of the structures, including a temple to Apollo and the Peirene Fountain, were seen on our tour through the ancient trade town. We also explored a tiny museum on the site.

Unfortunately, due to the debt crisis in Greece, all museums and historical sites close at 3pm. We weren’t able to make it to Epidaurus in time (we plan on going there tomorrow), and instead we ate lunch along the canal and then headed to our hotel in Tolo. It is right on the Gulf of Tolo, and a few have waterfront views from their hotel rooms!

Quickly, we threw on our swimsuits and soaked up a few rays. Many went for strolls along the beach collecting rocks and shells. Tonight we will have dinner at the hotel and hope to explore the nightlife in Tolo. Gorilla Bar, anyone?!



The canal at Corinth.



Acrocorinth.



The facade we walk through as we ascend.



Amy, Thomas, Regina, Andrew, and Tallack resting after the hike up to the fortress on Acrocorinth.



Amy, Andrew, Rachel, Regina, Matt, Jon, Thomas, and Jordan enjoy the spectacular views from Acrocorinth.



One of the views from the top.



3 Cobbers atop the rocks.



Another part of the ruins.



Part of the ancient wall still stands.



A good view of the extensive site.



The Temple to Apollo at Ancient Corinth, with Acrocorinth towering in the background.



The view from our hotel room!



Amy, Rachel, and Rachel soaking up the sun!



Sunset over the beach at Tolo.


Math May Seminar, Pictures 2011