The Gulf of Corinth is a body of water located in Greece, separating the mainland from the Peloponnese peninsula. It is an elongated inlet stretching approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) in length from northwest to southeast, with a width varying between 8 to 40 kilometers (5 to 25 miles). The gulf is connected to the Ionian Sea in the west through the narrow Strait of Rion-Antirion, while it opens up to the Aegean Sea in the east.
This semi-enclosed basin is formed by the southward extension of the continental crust along the Corinth Rift, a tectonic graben that marks the plate boundary between Eurasia and the Aegean microplate. The Gulf of Corinth offers a great depth, reaching up to 935 meters (3,068 feet), and is characterized by steep, mountainous coastlines, picturesque coves, and some small, predominantly volcanic islands.
The gulf holds significant historical, cultural, and economic importance. It was a crucial trade route in ancient times, connecting the various regions of Greece. The strategic location of the Gulf of Corinth also necessitated the construction of the famous Rion-Antirion Bridge, completed in 2004, which provides a vital transportation link between the mainland and the Peloponnese. Today, the gulf serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, charming coastal towns, and opportunities for various water activities, including sailing, diving, and swimming.
