Later, a new retreat by the sea formed the isthmus of Corinth. This land bridge was cut in the late 19th century to make the Corinth canal, making the Peloponnese an island yet again. The climate is purely Mediterranean along the coasts, unlike the centre which has a relatively continental climate. A mythical land whose every corner brings to mind some Greek myth, the Peloponnese is composed of images and music, the scents of the sea, of the mountains, of grapes, olives, and citrus. The cities, towns, and spas of the region were important centres in antiquity, and remain so today.
Villages seem to grow out of the grey rock, the wild stones next to the hostile furze.
Other villages lie by the vast open sea, but everywhere the people are vital, hospitable, haughty, and proud. Three main road networks lead to places with abundant physical beauty, important archaeological sites, land and stones testifying of other eras. J ust before we arrive at the Isthmus we have our first view of the Peloponnese, coming to Loutraki with its famous spas and many hotels. A fter we have crossed the Isthmus, we encounter Corinth , a commercial centre and transport hub. In the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth we find the ruins of the brilliant ancient city.