"Rooms Marinos" is the home of the Ohio State University Excavations at Isthmia and the annual OSU Study Tour to Greece.

In front of the hotel

The hotel is operated by Spyros Marinos, his wife Elisavet, along with their son Vasili and his wife Chrysa. The hotel was built in the 1960's, with the primary idea to provide visiting archaeologists with a "home away from home" in the village of Ancient Korinth. The archaeological sites in the immediate vicinity have been excavated and studied by (mostly American) archaeologists since 1896 and many scholars and students spend extended time in the village. Over the years, the hotel has grown: a kitchen was added, extra rooms, and now a large hall for functions (such as weddings and receptions). In addition, the Marinos family has built a computer room and a library for our use, along with other conveniences.

But what makes Rooms Marinos special is the Marinos family itself. Spyro and Elisavet do all the cooking themselves, all from fresh local ingredients. They take great pride in preserving many of the traditions of hospitality and of agricultural life from an older time. In the summer months dinner is always eaten outside, under the pine trees that Spyro planted thirty years ago; the food is served family-style, and there is plenty to eat for everyone!

Dinner at Rooms Marinos

On occasion, Spyro will get out old farm implements or household tools and ask us if we know how they were used. He enjoys making jokes and imitating various guests behind their backs (so be forewarned). Nonetheless, all the members of the family seek to make our stay pleasant and memorable. They are friendly and helpful and are always willing to go far out of their way to provide extra information or help when it is most needed.

Ancient Korinth itself is a small but pleasant village. Thousands of tourists a day pass through the remains of the ancient city; they come in huge busses, spend a short time in the remains, and travel on. Very few of them stay for any time at all, and almost none spend the night in Ancient Korinth. At night the village reverts to its true character as a small agricultural settlement, with friendly people who are always happy to stop and talk with us.

Central Square of the Village

For more information on the Korinthia: press here