Acrocorinth (Corinth, Greece)
City:
Corinth
State, Province, Region, or District:
Country:
Greece
Overview
Acrocorinth is a large monolithic rock rising about 1,800 feet above the surrounding plain overlooking the ancient city of Corinth. On this small mountain, the ancient temple of Aphrodite (1 Corinthians 6) stood on its summit. Nothing of the temple remains except for some cuttings in the rock that were the footings for the foundation of the temple, and a few large stones that were used in later construction projects but are believed by some authorities to date to the original sanctuary.
Looking up at the Acrocorinth today, one can see the walled gates as rebuilt by the Venetians along the perimeter. The Acrocorinth was continuously occupied from archaic times to the early 19th century. With its secure water supply, Acrocorinth's fortress was repeatedly used as a last line of defense in southern Greece because it commanded the Isthmus of Corinth, repelling foes from entry by land into the Peloponnese peninsula.
Geography & Location
Acrocorinth is located in the northeastern Peloponnese, about 56.5 miles (91 kilometers) southwest of Athens and just 4.6 miles (7.5 kilometers) from Corinth.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Biblical Connection
Biblical & Historical References
Paul first traveled to Corinth on his second missionary journey after spending a brief time preaching in Athens (see Acts 17:16-18:1).
Spiritual Lessons and Application
See the article: Paul's "Abrupt" Departure from Athens.
Site Visit
Note: Getting to the summit of Acrocorinth is a difficult two-hour walk from the archaeological site up a road that becomes steeper as it climbs and one should allow at least another hour and a half to visit.
Places of Interest
NOTE: Ancient Corinth comprises three sites: the Corinth Canal across the isthmus, the main archaeological site with its museum and Roman forum, and (this page) the fortifications and ruins atop the Acrocorinth.