When thinking about locations famous for their place in Greek mythology, odds are the Acropolis is first to mind, where the Ancient Greeks worshipped Athena, the goddess of wisdom, nature and fertility. But just 10 miles along the coast from Athens lies Elefsina – or Eleusis as it was known – a place of historic significance which will be celebrated as a European Capital of Culture in 2021.

According to legend, Persephone, the goddess of spring, was kidnapped by underworld ruler Hades. The grief of her distraught mother Demeter – goddess of the harvest – led to a drought which only ended when Zeus, king of the gods, commanded Hades to return Persephone to her mother. “Elefsina was one of Ancient Greece’s five holy cities,” says regular visitor Katerina Santikou from hotel group Santikos Collection. “It has a big history.”

Of course, you may be too busy to bother with history while you’re lazing by the pool at the white-walled Elefsina Hotel (rooms from £106) or enjoying grilled shrimp at Santikou’s favourite taverna, Trata, a 15-minute walk away. “Get a table on the patio for a view overlooking the Gulf of Elefsina,” she suggests.

Booked a holiday to Greece, Athens? Explore myths and legends on this historic day trip