Sfaktiria beach is one of the most historical beaches in Greece with stories from ancient times.
Sfaktiria is located near Pylos, in front of its natural harbor and it is a beach that exists on a rocky islet with a long history. Even the name of the beach seems to come from the verb "sfazo", which means "slaughter" or "sacrifice". The reason is that there the inhabitants of the Peloponnese made sacrifices in honor of the god Poseidon.
The beach and its history
On the Peloponnesian War Demosthenes ordered to anchor opposite the northern end of Sfaktiria, which then belonged to Sparta and was inhabited by Helots. He then ordered the crew to disembark and take shelter on the islet. When the Spartans recognized the Athenians, they encamped in the southern part of Sfaktiria and landed an army on the islet and a fleet at sea. Demosthenes sent three triremes to Zakynthos and asked for reinforcements from the main Athenian squadron. After a battle, the Athenians defeated the Spartan fleet and the Spartans were eliminated at Sfaktiria. The Spartans sent floating Helots who secretly gave supplies and food to the besieged.
Athens granted a truce, but Sparta refused because of the harsh conditions. The Athenians attacked and surrounded the Spartans, who were unable to face the numerous Athenians. Before trying to finish them, they sent a messenger to demand surrender. To the surprise of many, the Spartans surrendered and were taken to Athens as prisoners.
Somewhere among the rocks of Sfaktiria there is even a portico, called Tripito. Tradition says that if a pregnant woman passes through, the child she will have will be a boy.
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