Three topics stand out when planning a trip around Ligourión: the natural history exhibits at the Kotsiomitis Museum, the so-called “Pyramid” with its disputed interpretation, and the surviving parts of Agios Merkourios Monastery. Depending on your interests, you can focus more on a collection, architectural questions or monastery remains.

The so-called “Pyramid”: construction, interpretation and access

The so-called “Pyramid” of Ligourió lies near Ligourión. It consists of polygonal stone masonry with thick walls and has been variously interpreted as a defensive tower or an agricultural structure. Thus, a specific construction method sits alongside two different interpretations; its function remains disputed.

Its dating is also disputed. Prevailing views place the structure, based on typological and comparative evidence, between the late Classical period and the Hellenistic period—that is, in the 4th to 3rd centuries BC. This dating is a separate question from the differing interpretations of its function.

Access is via a dirt track and a short walk through hilly terrain. There is no organized visitor infrastructure. Caution is advised because of the natural terrain. As local conditions may change, check them locally before your visit.

Monastery and natural history

Agios Merkourios Monastery lies about 2.5 km south of Ligourión, outside the town. Of the buildings, the monastery church and a few remains of the monks’ cells have survived. Unlike at the Pyramid, the focus here is on specific surviving parts of buildings; its southerly location is a separate point of reference when planning your trip.

The Kotsiomitis Natural History Museum is located in Ligourión. It displays fossilized tree trunks, corals, trilobites, fish and sea urchins, as well as mineral crystals such as azurite, malachite and quartz. If natural history is your main interest, you will find a collection here whose subject matter differs from the architectural form and historical interpretations of the so-called Pyramid.

The area around Agios Ioannis Theologos is considered accessible and has gently sloping terrain. Check local conditions before your visit.

Walking routes in the Cultural Paths program

A 2022 announcement mentioned the creation of a circular route in Ligourió and along the Old Road of Ligourió as part of the Cultural Paths program. If you would like to include these walking routes in your travel plans, check the local status in advance.

The topics therefore differ not only in their subject matter: the museum focuses on exhibits; at the Pyramid, masonry, disputed interpretations and access via a dirt track and footpath come together; and at the monastery, the church and cell remains have survived. These specific differences can help you choose a personal focus for Ligourión.

Discover more destinations: Nea Tiryntha, Vivari, Agios Adrianos, Porto Cheli, Pigadia, Ermionida, Argolis, Árgos

Go to the main travel guide: Argolis.