Aegina or Egina
one of the Saronic Islands of Greece
Aegina (Greek: Αίγινα), is one of the Saronic Islands of Greece in the Saronic Gulf, 17 miles (27 km) from Athens. Tradition derives the name from Aegina the mother of the hero Aeacus, who was born on the island and became the king of it.
During ancient times Aegina was a rival of Athens, the great sea power of the era.
Aegina is roughly triangular in shape, approximately 15 km (9.3 mi) from east to west and 10 km (6.2 mi) from north to south, with an area of about 87 km(34 sq mi).
An extinct volcano constitutes two thirds of Aegina. The northern and western sides consist of stony but fertile plains, which are well cultivated and produce luxuriant crops of grain, with some cotton, vines, almonds, olives and figs, but the most characteristic crop of Aegina today (2000s) is pistachio.
Economically, the sponge fisheries are of notable importance. The southern volcanic part of the island is rugged and mountainous, and largely barren. Its highest rise is the conical Mount Oros (531 m) in the south, and the Panhellenian ridge stretches northward with narrow fertile valleys on either side.
The beaches are also a popular tourist attraction. Best beach at the island, is Agia Marina sandy beach awarded with blue flag for the last seven years.
Hydrofoil & ferries from Piraeus carry passengers to Aegina or Agia Marina ports; the regular ferry takes about an hour, with ticket prices for adults within the 10-15 euro range. There are regular bus services from Aegina town (+30 22970 22787) to destinations throughout the island such as Agia Marina.
Portes is a fishing village on the east coast – Perdika is a traditional fisherman’s village full of fish taverns and restaurants located at the South of the island.