Souvala, on the northern coast of Aegina, is the island’s second commercial harbour after Aegina Town. Although it has developed as a seaside resort in recent decades, it still retains the atmosphere of a quiet coastal settlement, with a pleasant beach and relaxed character.
The name Souvala most likely derives from the Slavic word Suvala, meaning “marsh” or “wetland”, a name that spread during the medieval period. Similar place names appear in several parts of Greece, including Phocis, Phthiotis, Evia, Pelion, Ios and Sifnos. In the past, some scholars attempted to derive the name from the Greek verb symballo, referring to the meeting of waters in one place, but this interpretation is now considered a later attempt to assign Greek roots to a foreign word.
During the medieval period Souvala served as the principal harbour of Aegina, when the island’s capital was located inland at the fortified settlement of Palaiochora, built for protection from pirate raids. Founded in the 9th century AD, Palaiochora remained the capital of the island until 1826 and lies about 7 km from Aegina Town, behind the hill of the Monastery of Saint Nektarios.
Today Souvala is a pleasant coastal village and a convenient starting point for visiting some of Aegina’s most important historical sites, including the Temple of Aphaia, Palaiochora and the Monastery of Saint Nektarios.
Sights
Souvala Harbour and Beach
The small harbour of Souvala serves local boats and visiting craft, while beside it stretches a pleasant sandy beach, popular with both residents and visitors.
Palaiochora
A short distance inland lies Palaiochora, the medieval capital of Aegina. The remains of numerous small churches and buildings still stand on the hillside, offering a glimpse into the island’s Byzantine and post-Byzantine past.
Monastery of Saint Nektarios
A few kilometres to the south stands the impressive Monastery of Saint Nektarios, one of the most important Orthodox pilgrimage sites in Greece.
Festival of the Sardine
Each summer, usually in late July or early August, Souvala hosts the popular Festival of the Sardine (Fisherman’s Festival), where fried fish, wine and traditional Greek music create a lively celebration.
