Vathia: The tower town in Mani that belongs to four families

Vathia, a place in Greece, offers a unique and imposing landscape that you won’t find elsewhere. As a visitor to Mani, you’ll experience a close connection with nature and distinctive architecture. This location stands out for its uniqueness. It’s the highest point in Mani’s landscape, characterized by the allure of its towers and its unique history. Nestled between the sea and arid mountains, Vathia is the unexpected gem that Mani has to offer.

As you navigate the numerous twists and turns of the road in Mani, heading towards Vathia, you’ll find it majestically perched atop a hill, much like an acropolis. This single view encapsulates towers, houses, churches, and olive presses - approximately 150 buildings in total, along with alleys and paths. It’s a sight to behold.

Situated atop a mountain plateau, this location offers a breathtaking view. On one side, you’ll see the stunning coastline, and on the other, the rugged, arid mountains. The combination of these two contrasting landscapes creates a picturesque scene akin to a painting.

Vathia is more than just a visual treat; it’s an experience waiting to be lived. You have the opportunity to stay in one of the preserved olive presses or in one of the nine renovated tower guesthouses, all while soaking in the unparalleled view. Take a stroll through the quaint alleys and make your way to Vathia’s secluded beach, adorned with a mix of sand and pebbles. It’s not just about seeing, it’s about immersing yourself in the beauty that is Vathia.

Vathia, with its strategic location, dominates the landscape as a densely constructed and striking complex of about 70 tower houses. Interestingly, all these structures belong to just four families from Mani. This is where the captivating journey into the castle town of Mani begins.

Despite the restoration efforts, the village of Vathia remained under the ownership of the four historic families who owned all the tower houses. The Greek State did not expropriate these houses but instead entered into a contract with the heirs. However, once this contract expired, it was never renewed. As a result, for a long time, visiting the settlement seemed pointless. In essence, Vathia remained an abandoned settlement.