Fotos

Visiting this place again brought back pleasant memories of my first visit to Athens in 1995. This hectic but wonderful city, with its Mediterranean climate, architecture and lifestyle left a deep impression on me as a kid. It was love at first sight.

Marina Zeas (or Limin Zeas) is situated in Piraeus, Athens, on the Eastern shore of the Peninsula of Piraiki and it is a natural marina, one of the largest in the Mediterranean Sea. The area is one of the most beautiful and picturesque neighbourhoods of Piraeus.

Marina Zeas is also known as Passalimani, pasha being the Turkish governor and limani meaning harbor, since it was used centuries ago by the Ottoman fleet during the Ottoman Turkish occupation. Piraeus has been the port of Athens since ancient times. Themistocles was the discerning politician of Ancient Athens who not only anticipated the naval supremacy of Athens, but understood the importance of Piraeus harbors in accomplishing it as well. Marina Zeas was one of the major naval ports, with dry docks for 196 triremes.

Today it functions as a marina for small ships, yachts and boats. Its waterfront with its many bars and restaurants, tavernas and cafes is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.