Neos Kosmos reports that each year Monemvasia attracts thousands of visitors; it’s a destination firmly on mass tourism’s radar. The towering islet and its medieval village is one of the most popular attractions in the Peloponnese. Offering some fine boutique accommodation and eateries with serene views linked by a maze of alleyways, a trip here is always unforgettable. But, above all, it is its history that pulls us to this special place.While itis thought to have been an ancient Minoan trading post, its first recorded settlement (in the upper now ruined part of the town) was by residents of Sparta in the late 6th century. From the 10th century, it developed into a major maritime center and became a regular stop for traders plying the Mediterranean from Constantinople westwards. Having resisted Arab invasion and the Normans, Monemvasia was part of the Byzantine Empire until the Venetians arrived in the early 15th century. Ottoman rule held sway, through its population peak of 40,000 in the 17th century, until the island rock was liberated from the Turks in 1821.Today, exploring the medieval town to unveil its rich historical layers is one of the great Peloponnese experiences. Let the narrow cobbled alleyways draw you up through the ancient town and sooner or later you’ll find a terrace with one of the Aegean’s most sublime views. From your eyrie high above the terracotta roofs and church domes, looking out across the silver blue Aegean, time will seem to stop for a while; the world’s stresses left behind.Read full report here.RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism reportPhoto Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Ingo Mehling License: CC-BY-SASource: Michael Sweet/neoskosmos.com