by Jonathan Tomlinson
Share
Share

After this first chapter filled with Athenian discoveries, it was time for us to continue the adventure beyond the capital. The trip was only just beginning: a second, equally fascinating part awaited us on the other side of the Corinth Canal, in the heart of the Peloponnese, a land of myths, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the most famous archaeological sites in the Greek world. With great enthusiasm, we left Athens and hit the road, ready to explore this emblematic region and experience new moments of learning, discovery, and shared memories.

We began with Eleusis, the sacred center of the ancient Mysteries, whose solemn atmosphere immediately transported the group into another dimension. Then we headed toward Corinth and the impressive Acrocorinth, whose hilltop walls offer spectacular views over the isthmus and the surrounding mountains.

The journey then took us to Mycenae and Tiryns, where the cyclopean walls reminded us just how grand the Homeric heroes envisioned their world. The Palamidi fortress in Nafplio, with its endless stairs and sweeping views over the bay, offered the perfect blend of physical challenge and visual reward. In Epidaurus, the acoustics of the theater impressed everyone, as always.


The trip was also punctuated by lighter moments, including our now‑famous “Olympic” races: first on the ancient track of Nemea, then in Messene, before ending in style at Olympia, where it all began nearly three millennia ago. Between visits, we also explored a vineyard in the Nemea region, the perfect opportunity to taste local specialties in a relaxed atmosphere.



Our route then led us to Sparta and the Byzantine fortress of Mystras, a true medieval city frozen in time, before reaching the Palace of Nestor, one of the rare Mycenaean complexes whose layout remains clearly readable. Finally, Delphi, at the foot of Mount Parnassus, offered a grand conclusion to this journey across the Peloponnese.

Back in Attica, our trip ended with two emblematic sites: the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the sanctuary of Brauron, dedicated to Artemis. Two places where landscape and archaeology echo one another, perfect for closing this chapter of the journey.

Looking back on my year as the Neda and Franz Leipen Fellow at the Canadian Institute in Greece, I am incredibly grateful for all the opportunities and experiences I’ve had. My main focus this academic year has been
The 2026 Cyclades and Crete CIG Summer School has officially begun. From May 10th to May 29th, students are travelling across Athens, the Cycladic islands, and Crete to study Greek history from the Bronze Age to the present
This week, we welcomed our new intern from York University, Nicole Kulova, who will be with us in Athens until July. Nicole is a second-year Honours student in Political Science and Philosophy whose education in classics, philosophy,
Ever since my first trip to Crete in 2016, I have heard the siren’s call of Greece tempting me to return. Then in 2025, armed with my undergrad Classics knowledge, I was fortunate enough to join the CIG’s