Aitoliko in Akarnania, Greece, is known for its caviar, ancient historical buildings and being surrounded by water – known as the Little Venice of Greece it’s close to the Ionian Sea
A town in Greece has been found to be the most beautiful in the world. It sits in the middle of a warm lagoon and can only be accessed by bridge.
Aitoliko in Akarnania, Greece, is a fishing village that oozes serenity and calm because of its attractive surroundings. The lagoons and landscape are full of fascinating wildlife including fish and birds.
Based in the middle of the Messolongi archipelago, the town has been dubbed Little Venice of Greece, due to the many water ways which surround its centre, the Daily Express reported. A network of canals are crisscrossed by bridges much like in the Italian sunken city.
Around 1,200 people like in Aitoliko and make their way around using the bridges and boats. Plus, the canals and bridges help to defend the small community from floods.
The southern lagoon periodically empties into the Ionian Sea, completely changing the landscape and opening up the walkable land in Aitoliko considerably. It’s quite the sight to see when you’re used to the huge stretches of water.
The Mesolongi-Aitoliko Lagoon National Park is based around one of the largest lagoons on the Mediterranean Sea and the most extensive delta in Greece. In most parts the water rises to just 1.5m, meaning brave swimmers can wade in.
A large part of the area is protected by a hunting ban which has allowed the natural life there to flourish. Today it boasts a diverse range of plant and animal life, with a notable abundance of 290 bird species and more than 100 types of fish.
Holidaymakers can head to the romantic Old Town which sits between two lagoons. While there indulge in Greek food and the Aitoliko specialities.
The lagoons and strong tidal forces help to create a plethora of local dishes. These include the famous Greek caviar which comes smoked or salted at taverns in the area.
You can also died on grilled fish, baked eel and delicious seafood which changes by the season. Or enjoy the local wines which are raved about on Tripadvisor.
Aitoliko Island features a variety of historic structures and landmarks in addition to its canals and walks, perfect for history buffs.
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a magnificent 17th-century church with elaborate murals, is located on the island’s main plaza. The top of the church’s bell tower gives the best view of the canals and islands.
The ruins of a Venetian castle are available for anyone interested. Plus, theatre fans might like the ancient amphitheatre built into the rocky hillside about three miles from the centre of Aitoliko.
Tourists who prefer to relax can simply wander around the town’s red-tiled buildings, snack on an ice cream or sip on a cold drink.
As small as it may be population wise, Aitoliko has a long and storied history, having made an important contribution to the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire at the beginning of the 19th century.
The town was subjected to three Turkish sieges before joining Greece. Just 500 Greek soldiers fought 15,000 Turkish troops during the first of three sieges.
Today it is a much more peaceful place happy to welcome the thousands of tourists and birds that fly in every summer. The closet major airport that connects to the UK is Pathas, although it may be cheaper to fly to Athens and then travel across the southern tip of Greece.
