A 'MYTHICAL' LAKE IN MOUNTAINOUS CORINTHIA
THE STYMPHALIA REGION IS EMBRACED BY THE MAJESTIC PEAKS OF ZIRIA, OLIGYRTOS, MAVROVOUNIO AND GAVRIAS.
This region comprises two distinct plateaus: the elevated plain of Pellini, resting at 740 meters above sea level and encompassing the communities of Klimenti, Kaisari, and Velina; and the lower plain where the lake sprawls, situated around 626 meters above sea level. This area borders several communities including Kefalari, Kyllene, Drosopigi, Stymphalia, Kastania, Karteri, Lafka, Asprokampos, and Psari.
Stymphalia unveils a picturesque panorama to its visitors, immersing them in a surreal landscape resonating with the melodies of birds and adorned by the dramatic, rugged slopes of Mount Ziria. Over the ages, this locale has woven the tapestry of the legendary Herculean might, casting a spellbinding aura over the lush, aqueous valley.
Stymphalia constitutes a region characterized by its namesake lake, steeped in ancient mythology. Legends and tales have enshrouded the mythical lake for ages. Within these marshlands and the adjacent woods resided the Stymphalian birds, known for their iron beaks, which posed threats to both people and crops. The intervention of Hercules, who eradicated these creatures, seems to be linked to the drainage of the marshes and the subsequent protection of the inhabitants from the ailments associated with them, marking the completion of the 6th of Hercules' labors.
In the ancient region of Arcadia, including Stymphalia, the playful deity of wilderness and hills, Pan, known as Fear Panic (Greek: Fovos Panikos) due to his mischievous antics aimed at unsuspecting shepherds whom he both cherished and safeguarded, was venerated. Similarly, a sanctuary dedicated to Hermes, the swift-footed messenger and father of Pan, stood in homage at a cave in Ziria, where Hermes was born.
The name Stymphalia originates from the ancient Arcadian settlement of Stymphalos, mentioned by Homer. It was named after its founder, Stymphalos, who was the third descendant of Arcadas, the brother of Kyllinas, and the son of Elatos.
Stymphalians participated in significant conflicts such as the Trojan War, the Persian Wars, and the Peloponnesian Wars. The present-day archaeological site near Lake Stymphalia boasts various structures like palaestrae, a theater, walls, and a forum. Legend suggests the potential presence of King Aepytus' tomb, brother of Stymphalus, which continues to intrigue archaeologists.
Aepytus, renowned for his passion for hunting, met his demise from a snake bite and was buried with royal honors and vast wealth in the vicinity of Mount Geronteion. The writings of the traveler Pausanias from the 2nd century AD mention King Aepytus' tomb.
Lake Stymphalia and Mount Ziria hold significant ecological importance, designated as part of the European Network of Protected Areas Natura 2000. They are connected by both underground and visible water channels, forming the Stymphalia water basin, the largest mountainous water basin in the Peloponnese. This landscape undergoes transformations with the changing seasons and represents the southernmost mountain wetland in the Balkans, boasting diverse flora and fauna.