Ligourio - Μuseum of Natural History

Built at an altitude of 370 meters at the foot of Mount Arachnaio, 25 km from Nafplio, Ligourio (or Lygourion) village is located on the road to the ancient theater of Epidaurus and the important archaeological sites of the area. 

The famous tavern
You are probably not the only one who knows the existence of this village, through the famous tavern named "Leonidas"! Besides, the theater is what gave life and reputation to Ligourio; I don't think anyone disagrees with that.
So, the famous "Leonidas" was the tavern, where actors and fans of theater used to eat late dinners and exchange views, after the performances. It was something like an informal custom, like a ritual, a scene that has been going on since the 1960's. If you want a good piece of advise, you should definitely reserve there a table, if you want to be part of this "ritual" after a performance!

The unknown sights of Ligourio
Of course, the village with the three thousand inhabitants has a lot more to show you: unique beauties, planted all over landscapes, rich history and interesting sights. After a walk in the paved square and drinking your coffee in one of its traditional coffee shops, you are ready to start the tour in the surrounding attractions. What is worth visiting? The Mycenaean bridge located outside the Arkadiko village, the ruins of the ancient Pyramid near the church of Agia Marina and the ancient walking path of the sanctuary of Asclepius towards Ligourio and Epidaurus.

Exhibits of interest
In Ligourio, there is also the lovely Museum of Natural History. It hosts the impressive collection of the collector Vassilis Kotsiomitis, with fossils, rocks, shells, insects and much more (www.museum-kotsiomitis.gr). You will find it at the end of the village, on the road to Nafplio and you will surely be impressed.

A blessed place, full of churches
What you will definitely notice during your tour in Ligourio, is that it has many churches and chapels. In fact there are around 50, of which 12 are from the Byzantine era. Indeed, local tradition says that Ligourio has always been surrounded by temples, that protected it from enemies and invaders. No matter how much a fan of ecclesiastical tourism you are or just a religious person, it is practically impossible to visit all the churches. However, you can go to the oldest church, Agios Ioannis the Merciful, located on the main road of Ligourio, going to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus. And if you want to see more, you will go to Agios Ioannis the Theologian (on the side of the old road between Ligourio and Palea Epidaurus, 1 km from Lygourio), or to the main square of the old settlement of the upper village of Ligourio, in "Panagitsa", with its wonderful frescoes. Now, do not say "enough with the churches" because if I keep from you that there is a church, "Agios Mercourios", in a ravine known as "Avlos" (flute), 5 km south of Ligourio, and you lose this enchanting landscape, who will be to blame? Sorry...

Did you know that?
If you visit Ligourio on Clean Monday, you will have a special experience, as at this day the traditional Carnival is held. It starts with a carnival parade and it continues with an endless flour war!
This village is also famous on the Easter Day, as you will see lamps traditionally roasted outdoors in skewers or exhibited in the taverns by the main road, where you may sit to enjoy fresh roasted lamp or purchase to take it away.

How to go
Distance from Nafplio: 25 km
Road: provincial, good
Tolls: No Tolls
Estimated Time: Almost 20 minutes
By car
From Asklipiou avenue, follow the signs to Ligourio - Epidavros
By bus
You can see bus routes Here