On October 20, 1827, the calm waters of Navarino Bay became the scene of the most decisive naval battle of the 19th century.
The bay you look out from tGialova beach — the one with the flamingos back in the lagoon and Sphakteria flanking it to the west — was once filled with over 150 warships. The result of this battle made Greek independence inevitable.
What Happened
In 1827, Greece was already in the sixth year of the Struggle for Independence. The Allied fleet — British, French, Russian — entered the bay to “observe” and apply pressure. A gunshot—the origin of which remains disputed—sparked the battle. By evening, 60 Ottoman-Egyptian ships had been sunk or burned, while the allied fleet had lost none.
Three Admirals Square
In Pylos, the Three Admirals Square honors the naval battle. Three statues of Codrington, De Rigny and Hayden stand in the square overlooking the bay.
Sfakteria Island
The island of Sfakteria, right in front of Gialova, hides a rich history that starts from antiquity — in 425 BC. a Spartan force was trapped and captured here, shocking the ancient world. Today, you can visit the island by boat from the port of Pylos.
Where to Live It
- Gialovas Beach: Stand here and look at the bay. History was made here.
- Niokastro: The role of the fortress in the Ottoman defense. → Full guide
- Three Admirals Square, Pylos: The monument and the view.
- Boating to Sfakteria: From the port of Pylos.