The municipality of Keratea is spread throughout South Attica and has monuments of almost all periods of civilization developed in Greece. The oldest habitation in the region is located in Kitsos cave, on the east side of the Mikro Ribari hill, whose first use and habitation date back to the Neolithic period (5.300 – 4.300 BC).
Keratea is a city filled with tradition, history and a distinct cultural identity. One of the most significant personalities of Ancient Greece, Themistocles, originated from the ancient municipality of Fryarrea.
Nowadays, with its lovely houses and wide streets, it’s no wonder many Athenians choose to make Keratea their permanent residence. In the main square dominates the church of Aghios Dimitrios. Of great significance is the neoclassical Drosopoulos mansion, which currently functions as a museum and public library. Many cultural activities take place in Keratea with special mention to the fair of Zoodochos Pigi, the church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Gkarika, which attracts hundreds of visitors each year.
There, we suggest you to try the local dish korbani (stew with wine). In a local café you could also find tsipouro or wine with appetizers and taverns to enjoy meat dishes
Though not a seaside town, Keratea does offer spectacular local beaches such as Kakia Thalassa, with small pebbles, sand and crystal clear waters.
The ancient theatre of Thorikos, dating back to the sixth century BC, can be found just 13 kilometers out of Keratea. One more kilometer away, you’ll find the ancient temple of Demeter and Kore.
The city of Lavrio is a living museum. The area’s mines stretch on for hundreds of kilometers and contain more than 500 different species of ore and minerals. These resources played a major role in establishing Athens as a naval power.
Today, Lavrio is a modern city with a strong historic identity. Across the Lavrio Palm Forest stands the imposing, neoclassical Euterpe mansion, the former seat of the local philharmonic orchestra. Lavrio is the second largest port of Athens, with ships departing for Kea and Kythnos, as well as the islands of Cyclades and the Eastern Aegean.
While in Lavrio, you could stroll through Town Hall Square and check out the local fish market. Other great local sites include the Mineralogical Museum of Lavrio, the Technology Park and the Handicraft-Industrial Educational Museum.
After your tours, enjoy some ouzo and delicious seafood from the local beachside taverns.
In the afternoon don’t forget to visit the famous Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, deep blue sea as far as the eye can reach. The magic hour of sunset is the best to enjoy the temple and the view.
Source: www.athensattica.gr