The ancient naval base of Minoans became one of the most important Peloponnese castles in the Middle Ages. Stone houses, mansions, and Byzantine churches still inspire Greeks and foreigners. The difference is that most houses hanging from steep rocks overlooking the Myrtoon Sea have tuned into hospitable taverns and cosmopolitan bars. The rock of Monemvasia is 95km from Sparta, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peloponnese.