A archaeological site.
- TypeArchaeological site
- 2.9 km east of Corinth
straight-line distances
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Long before the Canal existed, the ancients had their own way of crossing the Isthmus: they dragged the ships overland. The Diolkos was a paved trackway linking the Corinthian Gulf to the Saronic, along which vessels were hauled on wooden cradles.
Why it matters
It was built in the 6th century BC and is traditionally credited to the tyrant Periander. Thanks to it, cargo and warships avoided the dangerous voyage around the Peloponnese — and Corinth grew rich controlling the crossing. It is, in effect, the ancestor of today Canal.
What you will see
Sections of the paving survive with the wheel ruts still visible, near the western end of the Canal. The monument is fragile and parts of it have suffered from erosion, so access is restricted in places.
Practical notes
- At the western end of the Canal, near Poseidonia.
- There are no visitor facilities — see it together with the Canal itself.
- Respect the fencing: the monument is under protection.
Where it is
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Weather & best time to visit
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Book tours & tickets
Options from established partners for this area. Booking happens on their own site.
Guided visits, skip-the-line tickets and day trips, most with free cancellation.
See options →Things to do — CorinthiaActivities and local guides you can book ahead, so your day here is not spent queueing.
See options →These activities are provided and sold by our partners. You complete the booking on their own page, at exactly the same price — with no extra cost to you.
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