In ancient times Geraki was called Geronthres. At hte top of the hill there was an acropolis fortified with a wall. Archaeological finds have come to light, dating from Neolithic times (6000 B.C.). There seems to have been a large settlement in pre-historic times.

When the ancient buildings were laid waste, the building of great churches began with first the early pre-Christian basilicas, followed by Byzantine chirches decorated with frescoes and bas-relief. The conquering Franks built their castle on the top of the opposite hill, from where they could control the entire Geraki plateau.

The region of Geronthres is first in production of olive-oil in the prefecture of Laconia. Stock-raising is also highly developed, while several beekeepers have standarised their honey. The women of Geraki have been engaged in weaving since the era of Turkish rule. The "Geraki rugs" have been famous and prize-awarded since the 19th century (Vienna World Fair of 1873 and Athens World Fair of 1888). Today they accept orders at the address: "Erganai" 23058, Geraki, Laconia, tel.: 27310-71432, 71208, 71382.