Eretria
Evia
Ancient Eretria is the most important historical site on Evia, a city that at one time fought with Chalkida for dominance of the island, before Chalkida took power in the 7th century BC and Eretria was finally destroyed in 87BC.
The modern town of Eretria has unfortunately built up over large parts of the ruins of the ancient city, instead of being settled nearby as often happened, which allowed so many of Greece’s ancient cities to be explored and excavated. However, there is still much to enjoy, both ancient and modern, though the best finds from the site are in the Archaeological Museum in Chalkida.
Eretria Archaeological Museum
There are more finds on display in Eretria’s own Archaeological Museum, including a fearsome Gorgon’s head retrieved from a 4th-century BC villa. Nearby is the House of Mosaics, whose key can be obtained from the museum, and this is a restoration of a 4th-century house from ancient Eretria with well-preserved floor mosaics.
Also in this northwest corner of the town is a cluster of remains, including the theatre whose notable feature is a passageway under the stage that leads to the place out of which would suddenly appear the deus ex machina. This theatrical device is the unexpected event, which would often resolve a Greek drama, brought upon by the sudden appearance of the Gods who control our fate.
Other remains in this area include a gymnasium and the remnants of a palace. Above the theatre a short walk leads to the acropolis, with some remains of its walls and towers, but giving good views to the northwest over the Lelantine Plain, the fertile ground which was desired by both Eretria and Chalkida in ancient times.
Modern Eretria
In the centre of the modern town can be seen the foundations of the Temple of Apollo, and the site of the agora. The modern town now sprawls along the coast as one of the island’s main resorts, given its proximity to Chalkida, but while the remains of the ancient city ought to be seen, the modern town is not the most appealing place to stay on Evia. There are far lovelier towns and resorts all around the island.
Our Pick of the Guides to Greece
Other Evia pages
Evia (or Evvia or Euboea)
Evia or Euboea is the second largest Greek island and popular with Greek holidaymakers but off-the-beaten-track for overseas visitors.
Exploring Evia
There are lots of pretty towns and villages to explore on Evia, and these are some of the places worth seeking out, including Karystos, Kymi, Steni and Prokopi.
Driving in Northern Evia
This drive exploring northern Evia takes you from the busy town and port of Chalkida, out along the coast road and up into the mountains.
Chalkida on Evia
The capital of Evia is Chalkida, or Chalkis, the industrial port which you drive into if crossing from the Greek the mainland over the Evripos Channel.
Latest Posts
-
Adverse Weather in Greece: Heavy Rain, Snowfall, and Winds Cause Disruptions
Greece continued to face severe weather conditions on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, as heavy rainfall, storms, and snowfall affected many areas. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (EMY) reporte… -
Patras – Pyrgos Motorway in Western Peloponnese to Open by December 2025
The 75-kilometer-long Patras–Pyrgos Motorway in the western Peloponnese is expected to be completed and open to traffic by December 2025, significantly upgrading the region’s road transport system and… -
Tap2Ride: Athens Public Transport Rolls Out Digital Ticketing System
Athens public transport is ushering in a new digital era this week with the introduction of its innovative “tap2ride” ticketing system. -
The Greek Holiday Calendar 2025
Will there be a holiday or national celebration taking place during your trip to Greece? Find out here. -
Thessaloniki Metro: Station-by-Station Through History and Modernity
Now that Thessaloniki has, at last, a subway system, we propose a unique history tour that follows the route of that new metro line. -
10 Authentic Souvlaki Shops in Piraeus
Souvlaki originated in Piraeus and its heart continues to beat there even today. But which are the authentic souvlaki shops waiting to be discovered? -
Magic in the Mist: 48 Hours in Florina
Misty landscapes, snow-covered slopes, art, traditional cafés, and mouthwatering food beckon us to explore this charming border town. -
How Wine Bars Are Redefining Nightlife in Athens
Wine bars are now a cornerstone of Athenian nightlife, as an international trend goes local with a modern aesthetic and a distinctly Greek personality. -
10 Historic Tavernas in Athens and Piraeus
These places win us over with their authenticity, unpretentious atmosphere, and dishes that, though simple, are crafted with precision and care. -
Next Stop: Ancient Thessaloniki
The “open museums” unveiled by the operation of the metro – Guided tours begin in January.
Why not sign up for our Greece Travel Secrets newsletter? Each week you'll get emailed our regular Greece Travel Secrets Magazine for news, information, and inspiration for planning your travels in Greece.
As a welcome gift you'll also get a free e-book, Heaven on Earth. This contains 19 of Mike's favourite stories that he's written about travelling in Greece for newspapers and magazines over the years.
You'll find it over at Substack. Check out one of the Archive issues to find the Subscribe button.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases, but at no cost to you.
BUY A JOURNAL TO RECORD YOUR OWN GREECE TRAVEL SECRETS!
LEARN A LITTLE GREEK BEFORE YOU GO!
FOLLOW OUR GREECE VIDEOS
ON YOUTUBE
No words or images to be used without prior permission.
We do not sell personal information: see our Privacy Policy.
California Consumer Privacy Act - CCPA: Sale Of Personal Information
Greece Travel Secrets does not sell any information it gathers for any reason. It has not collected or sold any personal information in the last twelve months or ever in the past.
This website was built using Site Build It!
