Stymfalia Lake

Stymfalia Lake, located in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese region of Greece, in Corinthia, is a picturesque natural attraction with significant historical and ecological importance.

Ancient Mythology: According to Greek mythology, Stymfalia Lake was the home of the Stymphalian Birds (Stymfalides Ornithes), which Hercules was tasked to defeat as one of his twelve labors. According to Greek mythology, the Stymphalian Birds were man-eating creatures with sharp metallic feathers, said to inhabit the marshes and forests around the lake. Using the rattle provided by Athena, Hercules made a loud noise that startled the birds and caused them to fly away.As the birds flew into the air, Hercules shot them down with his arrows, eventually exterminating the entire flock.

Archaeological Site: Visit the archaeological site of Stymphalos, located near the lake, to explore the ruins of the ancient city and learn about its history dating back to prehistoric times. Stymphalos was an ancient Greek city-state located in the northeastern Peloponnese, known for its strategic location between Corinth and Arcadia. Stymphalos was influenced by various civilizations, including Mycenaean, Doric and Roman, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

Wetland Ecosystem: Stymfalia Lake and its surrounding wetlands are intergraded in the European Network of Protected Areas NATURA 2000, recognized for their ecological importance and rich biodiversity.

Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the scenic trails around Stymfalia Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The area is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Stymfalia Museum: Visit the Stymfalia Environmental Museum to learn about the natural history and cultural heritage of the area, including exhibits on local flora, fauna, and archaeological finds.