Lechaion: the western port of ancient Corinth and its great basilica
ArticleAncient Corinth had two ports, one on each sea. On the Saronic Gulf was Kenchreai, and on the Corinthian Gulf was Lechaion, through which the city traded with the western Mediterranean and Italy.
A man-made harbour
Lechaion was largely the work of human hands: the Corinthians dug basins into the shore and connected them to the sea. You can still make out the outlines of the harbour basins, such as the inner harbour, and the mounds of earth left by the digging.
The great early Christian basilica
The most impressive monument on the site is the 5th-century early Christian basilica, by tradition dedicated to Saint Leonides. More than 180 metres long, it was one of the largest churches of its time, a sign of how important Corinth remained in the early Byzantine period.
Practical tips
- Lechaion is about 4 kilometres west of Corinth, on the way to Ancient Corinth.
- The site is open with no shade. Wear closed shoes and do not stand on the ruins.
- Next to it is Kantare beach, which is pebbly: bring water shoes.
- Combine it on the same day with Ancient Corinth and Acrocorinth.
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