Zarax, Ancient fortified port in Monemvasia Municipality, Greece.
Zarax is an ancient fortified port in Monemvasia Municipality, featuring defensive walls from the Hellenistic period that run along the coastline. Multiple towers reinforce this fortification system and shape the overall character of the site.
The city faced destruction in 272 BCE during a military campaign led by Kleonymus, who sought to overthrow Areus with support from King Pyrrhus. This event marked a turning point in the site's history.
Remains of a three-aisled Christian church from late antiquity reveal how religious practice shaped daily life in this ancient port. The sacred building stood as a spiritual center for the community that once lived here.
This site sits at an elevation of 35 meters (115 ft) above sea level near the modern port of Gerakas in the Laconia region. Visitors should expect uneven terrain when exploring the fortifications and walls.
The entrance gate features a narrow corridor designed according to Hellenistic military principles to control access to the citadel. This design technique slowed down attacking forces and was standard in ancient defensive planning.
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