From the 15th century BC. up until the defeat of the Hellenes by the Romans, Markópoulo was known by the name Myrrinoús. After that, the town started to decline and during the Byzantine years there were only a few rural settlements in its place. Around the 15th century AD, the family of Giánnis Markópoulos settles in the area, founding the town that we know today as Markópoulo.
The story of the town begins at the first Helladic civilisations (around 3500 BC.). Excavations revealed many small settlements from that era and also, vases, jewelry and chambers from the Mycenean years, estimated to be from the 15th – 12th century BC.
Pórto Ráfti, the haven of Markópoulo, according to archaeologists was inhabited by the ancient municipalities of Prasiés and Steiría (2600 – 1800 BC.), after that by the Mycenean civilization (1580 – 1100 BC.), and was mainly used as a harbour.
From the 8th century BC. up until the defeat of Athens by the Macedonians (338 BC.), Pórto Ráfti was the secondary port of Athens. In this way, if the enemies of Athens closed the harbour of Peiraiá with their ships, the Athenians turned to Pórto Ráfti.
Around the 13th century AD, there was a legend about some ruins on a small island in the bay of Markópoulo (Pórto Ráfti). The legend referred to a statue known as “the giant of Pórto Ráfti” and it was estimated to be made in the 2nd century AD with a total height of 2.35m. This statue was named ”Ráfti” (in Greek ráfti means tailor) by the locals because the man was holding golden scissors (which were later stolen). Others however, travelers who went on the island, report that the statue was not of a man but of a woman.
In 1395 AD, an Italian archaeologist reported he found two statues, one of a woman and one of a man. The mythology behind them was that this man loved the woman with passion and strived to marry her, but she did not want him. So, she prayed to the gods to help her, so the gods made a marble statue of both of them.
In the 15th century, an Englishman reports that the head of the statue, together with many of the ruins on the small island, were stolen by a Frenchman called Louis François Sebastian Fovelle. Ever since, the ruins remained as found today and we have not yet solved the mystery of the statues of Pórto Ráfti.
Sights
Temple of Artemis at Vravrona
One of the most important sanctuaries of ancient Attica, dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The site retains a remarkable sense of tranquillity and offers an authentic glimpse into ancient religious life.
Archaeological Museum of Vravrona
Hosts finds from the sanctuary, including impressive statues of young girls and everyday objects. Small in size, yet exceptionally well presented and easy to appreciate.
Tower of Vravrona
A medieval tower reflecting the strategic importance of the area in later centuries. It adds an additional historical layer to the landscape.
Panagia Varaba (Markopoulo)
A Byzantine church with strong local character and distinctive architecture. A peaceful stop set within the rural plain of Mesogeia.
Flavours
Savvatiano Wine of Mesogeia
The Mesogeia region is one of Attica’s most important wine-producing areas. Savvatiano produces fresh, aromatic wines that pair perfectly with local cuisine.
Roasted Meats (Spit & Charcoal)
Markopoulo is known for its traditional tavernas, specialising in lamb, kokoretsi, and expertly grilled meats. The flavours are simple, yet deeply authentic and rooted in local tradition.
Local Cheeses & Dairy Products
Small-scale producers offer fresh cheeses of strong character and quality. Best enjoyed with bread and olive oil from the Attic land.
Traditional Taverns of Mesogeia
The tavernas preserve the atmosphere of old rural Attica. Warm hospitality, generous portions, and genuine Greek dining define the experience.
