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 This port city graces the southern edge 
of the Peloponnese and was founded by the Phoenicians prior to 400 B.C. The 
castle of Mistras, with its elaborate Byzantine frescos, carved throne, and 
majestic cathedrals will impress even the most seasoned traveler. Here, one can 
also visit the Caves of Diros, with their incredible underground lakes and 
fossils dating back two million years. On both sides of this small town are 
beaches and tavernas serving ouzo and octopus.  
The island of Marathonisi, or Kranae 
(helmet), is connected to Gythion by a narrow strip of landfill. Legend says 
that Paris of Troy anchored here after spiriting Helen away from Sparta, leaving 
his Kranos, or helmet, behind. The church of Aghios Petros, a "tarsanas" (small 
harbor for fishing vessels), and  the Tzanetaki's tower  (built around 
1700) round out the sightseeing on this tiny island. For more information about 
Greece, see the web site for 
Dilos Holiday World. 
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