Katakolon, Elis, GR
Maria Kalaitzaki, Theodora Serdari
Katakolon, located on the tip of the Gulf of Kyparissia, has been an important harbour since antiquity. In the second half of the 18th century Katakolon became the main gateway for the export of raisin to Europe and in 1882, got connected to the railway network.
Today, the small town of Katakolon with a permanent population of 600 inhabitants, despite its inefficient infrastructure, is a popular stopover for cruise ships, receiving over 9.000 tourists daily during high season.
The conducted mapping research proves that Katakolon constitutes an informal infrastructural node accommodating primarily access to Ancient Olympia. Besides the conflicting use of the harbour, the area is listed in the Natura 2000 network due to the presence of important species under protection.
(II) Scales