Corinth

We descended from the mountains toward Corinth, passing through a patchwork of cotton fields and vineyards that stretched across the landscape like a quilt of Mediterranean abundance. Along the way, we paused at the iconic Corinthian Canal, a dramatic photo opportunity. Completed in 1893, this engineering marvel slices through the Isthmus of Corinth, linking the Gulf of Corinth in the Ionian Sea with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea.
We watched with fascination as a bungy jumping opportunity was taken, not by one of us but another fear hardy tourist.
Our route took us through Thebes, a city steeped in myth and history. Known for its connection to figures like Pindar, Crates of Thebes, and the tragic tale of Oedipus, Thebes is also tied to the mythological search for Europa. Tradition holds that Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke and Acts, died here at the age of 84 as a martyr. His relics were later transferred from his tomb in Thebes to Constantinople in 357 AD and are now believed to be housed in various locations.
As we approached Corinth, we read Acts 18, which recounts Paul’s first visit to the city. Arriving at the archaeological site of ancient Corinth was nothing short of thrilling. We explored the ruins, identifying the synagogue, marketplace, and judgement seat, all places where Paul’s story unfolded.
Towering above the city is the Acrocorinth, crowned by the Temple of Aphrodite, once a center of worship and influence. It reframes 1 Corinthians 8-10 and the challenge of the new Christian lifestyle. After snapping some photos along the road to Cenchrea, the eastern port mentioned in Acts, we bid farewell to this remarkable site.Read more