Skala is a small town of 4,000 residents, 38 kilometres southeast of Sparta. It sits in a fertile plain that owns its fertility to two vital rivers, Vasilopotamos and Eurotas. Because of its fertility, the town of Skala is known for its animal husbandry and agricultural production, especially for its “Valencia” oranges and its honey production.
The town was made into an important trade hub during the Venetian rule, a thing that is also connected with its naming. According to the historians, Skala was a port on the Vasilopotamos river, built by the Venetians so that they could use the river to move people and goods. Later, under the Turks, the village and the river stopped being used as a trading hub, so Skala fell from its high status.
Today, it is a quiet little town that comes alive during the summer months, since it receives a great number of visitors. Its two important roads are called “5th of May” and “Vasiliou Theodosakou”, and most businesses and services are concentrated on their edges.
Noteworthy is the town’s stone-built church, dedicated to Agia Sotira. Other sights include Eurotas’ gorge, as well as its delta, which is an important wetland with great biodiversity. Near Skala is the picturesque village of Agios Georgios, with a Byzantine church bearing the same name. The Palaiomonastiro (or Kleisoura Monastery) is just 7 kilometres from the Vrontados settlement, attracting a huge number of worshippers seeking to light a candle in the cavernous church and to marvel at its murals. Skala is also an important stop on the road to Monemvasia, Gytheio and the region’s capital, Sparta.