The Imposing Mystras

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Slideshow for Dry Well

http://www.examiner.com/slideshow/xiropigado-the-dry-well

Dry Well

Do you awaken every morning to the sound of the waves hitting the shore? Does a mule stand in front of your house so he can graze on the heather? Time stands still for the residents in Xiropigado. The main business occupations are fishing and farming (mostly olive tree cultivation) for the 400 hundred occupants of this quaint, serene seaside picturesque village built below the craggy cliffs and steep hillside (Zavista Mountains) of the coast of Argolida in Greece. These pristine waters are 165 kilometers from Athens. But, how did this village Xiropigado (dry well) begin? The dry well was discovered in 1860 by Yioannis Mountzouris who bought a small tavern. The nightclub was established at the bottom of the house which sits on the property of the once flourishing cheese factory. Below the cheese factory is the dry well which became an interesting addition. The village began to mature as many of the inhabitants moved from the Zavista Mountains to “The Dry Well”. There were a few rooms above the tavern that were open in 1990. In addition, the port authority of Astros constructed a boardwalk in 1990 which definitely helped to obtain more guests at the inn as the only entrance was originally by the sea. Next door was the only nightclub, Evita which was built in 1985. In 2005, Sunset Hotel was constructed. Now Xiropigado has become more of a well-known resort inclusive of archeological sites of the area; Mycenea, Epidavrous, Naphlion, Argos and Nemea to name a few. This village provides excellent scenery, friendly residents, good home cooked food, good climate and fishing. The view of the sea makes the owner of the hotel feel freedom and happiness. The local insurance broker, farmer and café owner is friendly and helpful. Many different trades’ people live in this village along with expatriates who would rather live in Xiropigado than in their own countries. In addition, visitors from Los Angeles come by from time to time who say “…”And why not? The weather is temperate most of the year unless you take a trip to the Zavista Mountains and enjoy the snow. So if you are looking for where the past meets the future, come to the only hotel and nightclub on the boardwalk in Xiropigado. Don’t forget your bathing suit and an overnight bag. Enjoy your sunsets with the Mountzouris family!