Koilada is today a quiet fishing village in the region of Ermionida, situated at the head of a well-protected bay facing the island of Hydra. In recent years the village has experienced a modest but steady development for two main reasons. First, it attracts visitors and yachts thanks to the natural beauty of the bay and its excellent seafood tavernas. Second, Koilada has become known for its excellent boatyards and shipyards, where vessels of all kinds are repaired and maintained. Sea professionals bring their boats here even from distant ports such as Monemvasia.
Yet the history of the area stretches far deeper into the past. Just north of the village lies the famous Franchthi Cave, one of the most important prehistoric archaeological sites in Greece. To reach it one follows the coastal road around the bay towards the north until the dirt road ends and then walks approximately 500 metres along the shoreline. There is also a path leading to the cave entrance starting from Fournoi Beach.
Franchthi Cave was inhabited almost continuously from the Palaeolithic period to the Neolithic era. Its use ceased around 2000 BC, when a large section of its roof collapsed. Excavations have revealed remarkable findings documenting the transition of human societies in the region from hunter-gatherer communities to early agricultural and pastoral societies.
Among the most important discoveries is the oldest complete human skeleton ever found in Greece, belonging to a young man approximately 25 years old and 1.54 metres tall, who died around 8000 BC. At the back of the cave’s first chamber lies a beautiful small pool, illuminated by natural light entering from the cave entrance. Unfortunately the deeper chambers of the cave are no longer accessible, as massive rockfalls from the collapsed roof have blocked the passages.
Sights
Franchthi Cave
One of the most significant prehistoric sites in the Mediterranean, documenting the transition from Palaeolithic hunter-gatherers to Neolithic farming communities.
Koilada Bay
A large natural harbour filled with fishing boats and traditional boatyards, offering a genuine atmosphere of a Greek fishing village.
Boatyards of Koilada
The village is well known for its traditional and modern boatyards, where wooden and modern vessels are constructed and repaired.
Flavours
Fresh Fish of Koilada
Local tavernas serve fresh fish and seafood straight from the fishing boats, usually grilled simply with olive oil and lemon.
Argolic Prawns and Calamari
The waters of the Argolic Gulf are rich in seafood, and local restaurants are famous for fried prawns and fresh calamari.
Fishermen’s Kakavia
A traditional Greek fisherman’s soup, prepared with mixed fish of the day, vegetables and olive oil.
