Tigani Peninsula & Castle of Maina
Τηγάνι
A rocky peninsula shaped like a frying pan, topped by the ruins of a 13th-century Frankish castle and a Byzantine cathedral, with ancient salt pans nearby.
Tigani (meaning 'frying pan') is a small rocky peninsula that juts into the sea on the west coast of Mani, near Mezapos. On top, the remaining walls of the Castle of Maina survive, built by the Frankish Villehardouin around 1248, along with the ruins of a large early Byzantine cathedral. Crossing the rocky isthmus that connects the peninsula to land, you can see natural salt crystallising in the rock pools. From the parking area near Mezapos, the hike takes about 30–45 minutes. The whole route is exposed with no shade and sharp rocks, so wear proper shoes and go early in summer. The small harbour at Mezapos is a good place for a swim.
Opening hours
All day