Heraion Lake (Vouliagmeli)
Lake Vouliagmeni also known as Vouliagemi lagoon, 3.5 kms from Ancient Heraion, the lake is a picturesque area surrounded by many cafes and tavernas, with local fishermen still going about their daily business, as they have for thousands of years. During the ancient period the lake was called Lake Eschatiotis. In 1962 the international film The 300 Spartans staring Richard Egan with Sir Ralph Richardson and Diane Baker was filmed around this salt water lake, as the rocky geography of the present Vouliagmeni shoreline is more in keeping with ancient Thermopylae than the actual present historical site. The music for the film was written by famous Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis.
The King of Greece 'loaned' about 5,000 men of the Royal Hellenic Army for the making of this film, also known as The Lion of Sparta, to act as the Spartan and Greek warriors, as well as the Persian and Medes invaders. Todays tavernas and cafes situated along the shore offer visitors a chance to have a refreshing drink, a cool swim and a tasty meal following their historical exploration of Ancient Heraion.
