Isthmus of Corinth, Natural land bridge near Corinth, Greece
This narrow stretch of land connects mainland Greece with the Peloponnese peninsula across a width of roughly six kilometers. The Corinth Canal now divides it into two shores linked by several spans crossing the waterway.
Rulers in ancient times attempted to carve a waterway here but the effort failed repeatedly. The canal was finally completed under French direction in the 19th century and opened in 1893.
The southern section of the isthmus contained the sanctuary where athletes gathered every two years to participate in the Isthmian Games competitions.
Both sides of the canal can be reached by road bridges that are also accessible on foot. Visiting at different times of day allows you to see the changing light on the water below.
In ancient times ships were hauled across on a paved ramp using wooden rollers to ease the transport. This method remained the fastest link between two seas for centuries.
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