Ancient Gortyna

The Mythical Asclepius of Lucius with the Thermal Baths and the Pristine Natural Scenery The Archaeological Site of Ancient Gortys (or Gortys) is one of the most evocative, hidden and timeless destinations in the entire Mountainous Arcadia. It is located on the right bank of the rushing Lousios River, in a privileged and secluded lush green location near the village of Atsicholos, approximately halfway between Karytaina and Dimitsana. The great advantage of the site is its absolute integration into the pristine natural environment of the gorge, where ancient stone walls and foundations coexist with centuries-old plane trees, running waters and arched stone bridges, creating an ideal destination for hiking and historical exploration.

• Type of route: A beautiful, free archeology walk that combines passable dirt paths and exposed stone foundations right next to the river bed. The tour brings to light the ruins of a great fortified city of antiquity, with the main attraction being the famous Asklepiion of Gortyna, one of the most important healing centers of the ancient world.
• Good for: Nature lovers, hikers, classic archeology enthusiasts and travelers looking for a destination away from mass tourism. The area is traditionally famous for its mythical and spa character, as the excavations of the French School of Archeology revealed an amazing system of ancient thermal baths (balanium) with a sophisticated system of underground heating, where the ancient Greeks enjoyed their treatments.
• Infrastructure: Mildly developed, free and unfenced space, which gives it a unique, mysterious atmosphere. Right next to the ancient baths dominates the beautiful, single-arched Stone Bridge of Ancient Gortyna, while a breath away is the historic Byzantine Church of Agios Andreas (11th century). There are no commercial infrastructures operating in the area, keeping the landscape untouched.
• Access: Relatively easy via a beautiful mountain route. The journey from Karytaina takes about 15-20 minutes by car, following the asphalt road to Atsicholo and then descending towards the river. The road ends next to the bridge and the chapel of Agios Andreas, where free parking is available. Ancient Gortyna is also one of the most popular stations on the long hiking Menalon Trail.