The Hexamilion Wall

A castle in the Municipality of Corinth.

• MunicipalityCorinth

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The idea was both simple and enormous: if the Isthmus is the only narrow way into the Peloponnese, then sealing it seals the entire peninsula. That is exactly what the Hexamilion Wall set out to do.

The history

It was built in the early 5th century AD, under Theodosius II, running across the Isthmus from the Corinthian Gulf to the Saronic — some 7.5 kilometres of wall with towers at regular intervals and a strong fortress near Isthmia. Its name comes from its length, six miles.

The wall was repaired many times in the Byzantine period and rebuilt in the late Middle Ages as threats from the north returned. For all its bulk it was never enough: history went around it more than once.

What you will see

Substantial stretches survive, with the best-preserved part being the fortress beside Isthmia, where towers, gates and the sheer thickness of the masonry are clearly visible.

Practical notes

• The most accessible section is next to the archaeological site of Isthmia.
• See it together with the Sanctuary of Poseidon and the museum.

Explore nearby

Kryfi Beach332 mIsthmia (the village)373 mKavos942 mByzantine Walls of Isthmia1.0 km