 The
Greek island of Aegina (pronounced Ayina with the stress on the long
A of the first syllable) is a triangular shaped island in the middle
of the Saronic Gulf, midway between the port of Piraeus (from where
it can be reached by ferry in 1 ½ hours), Megara on the mainland and
Epidavros on the Peloponnesse. It was reputedly named after one of
Zeus' favourite daughters.
It has an area of 85 sq. Kms and a population of approximately
11,000 of whom, over half live in the capital, Aegina Town. It is
a popular weekend retreat with Athenians, many of whom are trying
to escape the smog of the capital.
Though the island is predominantly mountainous, it's highest point
being Mount Oros at 532 metres, there is a large Plain on the western
part of the island where crops such as pistachio nuts introduced
from Syria over 100 years ago, grapes, olives, figs and almonds
are grown.
The eastern side of the island is predominantly rocky with high
cliffs dropping down sharply to the sea, though the exception to
this is the bay of Aghia Marina, which is also the main tourist
resort on the island.
On the western side of the island are the bay of Marathona and
the capital itself - Aegina Town.
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