visitcorinthia.comThe Diolkos
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.
Online at: https://visitcorinthia.com/en/sights/diolkos/
Scan to open the page with maps, photos and updates.
Printed on: 19/10/2026
Scan to open the page with maps, photos and updates.
Printed on: 19/10/2026