During the Classical period, Antikyra played a notable historical role. As observed by historian Lampros Zagas, the city was repeatedly involved in cases before the Athenian courts, and it was the subject of the speech “Against Medon for False Testimony” by the renowned orator Lysias.
The city also gave its name to the famous hetaira Antikyra, who was associated with Demetrius Poliorcetes, as mentioned by Plutarch (Life of Demetrius, 24).
Antikyra was later captured by the Romans in 210 BC, yet it continued to prosper, as noted by Pausanias, who visited it nearly four centuries afterward. During the Middle Ages, however, the city suffered from pirate raids and was eventually abandoned.
From the 16th century onward, the area appears on maps under the name “Aspra Spitia” (White Houses) or variations thereof. On Abraham Ortelius’ map of Greece (late 16th century), it is recorded as Apropiti. The same name appears on the map of Frederik de Wit (Amsterdam, 1688). A map by V. Foglio, printed in Rome in 1788, refers to the area as Apre Spizia, while Keith Johnston’s map (London, 1879) names the area Aspra Spitia Bay.
In 1817, traveler J. C. Hobhouse wrote:
“From Distomo to Aspra Spitia, so called from certain white buildings that once stood there, it is a two-hour journey south… In the harbor, small vessels frequently dock, transporting corn.”
Today, Antikyra combines seaside beauty, layers of history, and a tranquil coastal atmosphere, making it a pleasant destination for visitors exploring the wider region of Central Greece.
