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Did you know? 6 things you didn’t imagine about Kiato
Kiato is not just a beautiful seaside town. It hides stories and characteristics that make it unique in Greece. Let’s discover its most unexpected aspects:
1. It hosts a giant of antiquity
Did you know that the Ancient Theatre of Sicyon, just 10 minutes from the centre, is one of the great theatres of ancient Greece? Its auditorium is about 125 metres across and held around 10,000 spectators, and its gateways follow the model of the theatre of Epidaurus. Its acoustics and its view towards the Corinthian Gulf are breathtaking to this day.
2. It is one of the best-known homes of the sultana grape
Did you know that the plain around Kiato is one of the best-known areas in Greece for the sultana grape? This seedless grape is eaten fresh as a table grape, and part of the harvest is exported abroad. Organic sultanas are also grown in the area.
3. The city that gave birth to the art of painting
Did you know that according to ancient tradition, Sicyon (ancient Kiato) is considered the birthplace of Greek painting? The first famous school of painting, the Sicyonian School, was founded there. Leading artists of antiquity studied at this school, laying the foundations for the evolution of visual arts in the Western world.
4. A museum jewel in Roman baths
Did you know that the Archaeological Museum of Sicyon is housed in an authentic Roman balaneion (bathhouse)? It is one of the few cases worldwide where the museum building itself is a massive and impressive archaeological find.
5. The connection with the great poet Kostas Karyotakis
Did you know that Kiato served as a source of inspiration and a place of residence for the great Greek poet Kostas Karyotakis? In Diminio, right next to Kiato, the seaside villa where he spent his summers still stands today. This building of unique architecture remains a living monument of Greek literary heritage.
6. A historic railway hub
Did you know that Kiato has had a railway station since 1885, on the Piraeus–Patras line? Today, it continues this tradition as the most modern transport hub, as the Suburban Railway (Proastiakos) connects it directly to Athens International Airport in just 1.5 hours.
Things to do there — Kiato & Corinthia
Optional tours, tickets and activities for your days here — you choose what suits you.
Activities, experiences and local guides — book ahead and skip the queues.
See options →A guided day with transport from Athens to Ancient Corinth and Nafplio, with free cancellation. Also: Corinth Canal & wine tasting, Ancient Corinth half-day
See options →Compare prices from all the major rental companies, with free cancellation on most offers. Also: Loutraki, Nafplio, Argos
See options →Activities are provided and sold by our partners. You complete the booking on their own page, at exactly the same price.
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Printed on: 17/10/2026