Archaeological Museum

Built in 1873, this museum preserves Spartan history across many eras. Explore prehistoric fragments from around Arcadia and Laconia. A stele from the 6th century BC features Homeric heroes Menelaos and Helen of Troy on one side, Agamemnon and Clytemnestra on the other. Exquisite 7th century amphorae and religious mosaics shed light on ancient Greek society.

Perhaps the most famous collection displays pieces of the Temple of Artemis. This museum contains the actual building blocks of Spartan civilization–clay, ivory, stone–and the evidence of a vibrant spiritual culture.

Museum of Olive Oil

It’s hard to overstate the significance of the olive to Mediterranean culture. Olive trees have flourished in Greece since prehistoric times. The Museum of Olive Oil in Laconia tells the story of an extraordinary fruit. On the ground floor, visitors learn about different methods of creating olive oil that evolved over the centuries. Further up, you discover the many roles of the olive in Greek life, from cuisine to hygiene to symbolic art. The museum was founded by Cultural Foundation of Piraeus Bank Group.

Sparti Town

The scenic town of Sparti is nestled in the mountains of eastern Peloponnese. As the capital of Laconia, it has attractive buildings, parks, and other areas for tourists to peruse. Unlike many towns in Greece, Sparti was designed by a plan. Its broad streets and city squares are ideal for an afternoon stroll. The town was built in the 1830s on the site of Sparta, the ancient city-state remembered for its dominant army. Visitors can see remnants of Sparta, like the monument of Leonidas, nearby.

Mystras

For decades, Mystras was the height of Byzantine power in Greece. Height is the key word; this breathtaking archaeological site sits high on the slopes of Mt. Taygetos. The fortified town protects the Palace of the Despots, where a despot–a son of the current Byzantine emperor–once reigned. Mystras was a cultural and political hub that absorbed many influences. Its architecture stands as an example of the late Byzantine era. The churches are particularly magnificent. Further down the mountain, there is a village and hiking trails.

You may have seen the movies, but there’s a lot you don’t know about Sparta. The trail of Spartan art and artifacts leads all the way back to prehistory. But you don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate Sparta. These four unforgettable museums and locations can capture anyone’s interest. From steam-powered olive oil presses to frescoed churches, Sparta is full of wonders.

The post What to Do in Sparta, Greece appeared first on .

Monastery of Kastri

Located in the village of Kastri, the Monastery of Kastri sits in a cave-like area above an older church that has been preserved. These two monasteries are often called the “top” and “bottom” monasteries. The Monastery of Kastri is officially known as the Dormition of Theotokos. The monastery is known to have been destroyed in 1460 by the troops of Mohamed II the Conquerer. During the 17th century, the monastery would undergo substantial restoration. The Monastery of Kastri is surrounded by rocks and greenery. The fort-like architecture of the monastery is sure to impress all who visit.

Monastery of Gola

Located near the village of Goranoi is the Monastery of Our Lady of the Life-Giving Spring, more commonly known as Gola. The domed church of the monastery was built in 1632. Thanks to the locals and the Church of Sparta, the monastic cells on the south side of the courtyard were built as well as structures to protect the exterior of the cathedral. The Monastery of Gola is surrounded by chestnut trees and black pines.

The monastery played an important role after its construction in helping to continue the spiritual uplifting of the enslaved Greeks and as an important economic factor for the locals. Visitors to the Monastery of Gola are often impressed by the traditions and stories that are connected with it.

Monastery of the Holy Forty Martyrs

The Monastery of the Holy Forty Martyrs is located 8 km from Sparta near Chrysafa. The site is surrounded by greenery. The monastery was founded in 1305 at a slightly higher location near the gorge of the stream of Sofronis. During the 17th century, the Monastery of the Holy Forty Martyrs was moved to its current location. The monastery was allowed to serve as an intellectual center.

In 1770, the monastery was abandoned after it was torched by the Turco-Albanians. When the Revolution started, the monastery resumed operation again and made great contributions to food and supplies. The monastery would be torched again in 1826 and 1943. When visiting the monastery, you can admire the library and rare documents and relics that are showcased at its museum.

Monastery of Saint Anargyroi

The Monastery of Saint Anargyroi was likely built in the 9th century AD. The ancient monastery is an important historical monuments. The monastery is located on Stamatiras Hill, which is a lovely forested areas that is found between Tsitzina Village and Vassara Village. The Monastery of Saint Anargyroi is surrounded by beautiful scenery that will adds to the peaceful ambiance. The monastery was first mentioned in 1293 the golden seal decree of Andronikos II Palaiologos who established the jurisdiction of the Metropolis of Monemvasia.

While visiting Sparta, Greece you should consider visiting these monasteries.

The post Monasteries to Visit in Sparta, Greece appeared first on .

Church of Agioi Theodoroi

Built in the 13th century, the Church of Agioi Theodoroi is located in Kato Hora, the lowest part of Mystras Old Town. The church was built by two monks Pahomios and Daniel. The Church of Agioi Theodoroi is an octogonal type of church that has lateral chapels. The dome of the church is based on eight props and quite spectacular to see.

The church was originally the katholikon of a monastery, but later became a cemetery church. The tomb of Despot of Peloponnese Theodore I is in the Church of Agioi Theodoroi. When you visit the church, you will be able to admire frescoes from the 13th century that are inside.

Palace of Despots

The Palace of Despots is also known as the Palataki Mansion, which means “the small palace.” After Constantinople, it was the second most important palace of the Byzantine Empire. This complex of buildings is located in the Upper Town of Mystras on top of the hill above the Church of Agios Nikolas. The building come various times as its construction began with the Franks and was finished by the Byzantines. The Palace of Depots is L-shaped.

Some of the various constructions are four-stories high and others are two-storey mansions. Each building of the palace has cellars, attics, chambers, and arches. From the Palace of Despots you will experience a great view of the plain of Sparta.

Ceadas Cavern

Located near Mystras, Greece 10 km from Sparta, Ceadas Cavern is a steep ravine that is situated on the eastern side of Mount Taygetos. If you’re looking for a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley of Sparta, this is where you want to be. Legend says that Ceadas Cavern is where ancient Spartans would throw weak and deformed babies who would not be able to grow up to be warriors. Bones found though are only of men of adult age, who are thought to have been healthy.

These men were possibly criminals who were thrown into the ravine as punishment. Still, when you visit Ceadas Cavern, you may feel a chilly breeze that the ancient Greeks believes to be the souls of the babies who died there.

Archaeological Museum of Mystras

Opened in 1952, the Archaeological Museum of Mystras is in the yard of Agios Demetrios Cathedral, housed in a two-storey building. Since its opening, the collections have grown considerably. While it is called the Archaeological Museum, it does showcase sculptures, jewelry, coins, pottery, pieces of fabric, portable icons, and much more. Collections include items from the early Christian era to Post-Byzantine time as well as some older and newer pieces.

Visit Mystras, Greece for a taste of history and natural beauty. There are also plenty of sites to see while here!

The post Attractions to Visit in Mystras, Greece appeared first on .

Archaeological Museum of Sparta

The Archaeological Museum of Sparta houses thousands of finds from the ancient Acropolis of Sparta and from the municipality of Laconia. It is the oldest provincial archaeological museum in Greece. The neoclassical building it is housed in was constructed between 1874 – 1876. The museum is in the center of the city. Finds housed at the museum range from the Mycenaean to the Roman period.

When you visit the Archaeological Museum of Sparta, some of the exhibits you will see include: Palatial-style amphoras from the Mycenaean cemetery; clay masks from the 7th – 6th centuries BC; a statue of a spartan warrior, also known as Leonidas; and mosaics from the Hellenistic and Roman times that bear mythological scenes including the abduction of Europe by Zeus.

Acropolis and Ancient Theater

The Acropolis and Ancient Theater in Sparta, Greece are a must-see when you are visiting. The Ancient Theater is found at the south side of the Acropolis. You can see the few surviving relics at the spot where the Temple of Athena Chalkioikos is located. The temple had an interior that was designed with copper sheets. The name Chalkioikos means copper.

The Ancient Theater was built during the early Imperial Period. The concave part of the theater, the orchestra, and the retaining wall have been preserved. The marble retaining wall was engraved during the 2nd century AD. Close to the theater are remains of merchant stalls that were built with brick and the interiors were decorated with mortar or plaster. These stalls served the audiences during performances and other events that took place at the theater. There is plenty to explore when you visit the Acropolis and Ancient Theater.

Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil

When visiting Sparta, Greece, you might enjoy the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil. There are many interesting exhibits including rare fossilized leaves that are 50 – 60,000 years old and come from the island of Santorini. There are also Linear B tablets that date back to the 14th century.These tablets have provided important information about the history of olives and olive oil.

The ground floor of the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil focuses on the evolution of olive-oil production from the post-Byzantine era through the first part of the 20th century. There is also an outdoor exhibition area that has displays that relate to olive cultivation and harvesting. There are reconstructed olive presses from the prehistoric, Hellenistic, Byzantine eras.

Visit Sparta, Greece if you want to explore the history of the area through its ancient sites and museums.

The post Attractions to Visit in Sparta, Greece appeared first on .

About the Leonidas Monument

The Leonidas Monument is a huge three-layered limestone structure. The first layer has 60 fluted Doric columns with 18 on each side, the second one has 96 fluted Ionic columns with 22 on each side, and the last one has 16 Corinthian-style pillars with 8 on each side.

The magnificent monument stands at an impressive height of 35 meters tall. Also, it has a diameter of 30 meters at its base, and the top side is 17 meters wide. The Leonidas Monument was built on the site where Leonidas’ body was cremated after he died during the battle against Xerxes I of Persia. The monument looks very similar to the Parthenon in Athens, but it’s smaller in size.

Leonidas Monument is made of limestone, and the construction process started in 478-479 B.C., several years after Leonidas died. The monument was funded by the Peloponnesian League, an alliance that Sparta formed with other city-states during the fifth century BC.

What to Do at the Leonidas Monument

There are many things that you can do at the Leonidas Monument. Firstly, it’s important to visit this monument because of its rich history and its standing for more than 2,500 years. You can also take some nice pictures here or just admire its beauty. Inside the monument is a small museum where you can see pottery and other items that date back to the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC. You can also take a tour inside the monument and listen to an audio guide in English and French. It’s a fascinating tour that lasts about 30 minutes, and it starts every hour.

Also, you should definitely climb up to the top of the monument, where you get an impressive view of Sparta and the surrounding areas. You can also see some of the ancient structures that are still standing in Sparta and the Eurotas River.

Getting to the Leonidas Monument

The Leonidas Monument is located in Sparta, Greece, and you can easily get there by car or taxi. If you’re driving from Athens, it will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to get there, and the driving distance is around 195 kilometers (121 miles). On the other hand, if you’re flying to Greece, then we suggest arriving in Athens. From there, you can take a taxi to Sparta, which will cost around 100 euros.

You can also get to Leonidas Monument by train or bus. However, these methods take much longer, and they’re not recommended unless you have a specific schedule. The best way to get around when in Sparta is by renting a car for the day. It’s relatively cheap and convenient, and you can visit Leonidas Monument and other attractions in Sparta at your own pace.

In conclusion, the Leonidas Monument in Sparta, Greece, is one of the most unique monuments in Europe. It has been standing for more than 2,500 years, and it commemorates a brave warrior who died during the battle. The next time that you’re in Sparta, don’t miss out on visiting this monument.

The post Visit the Leonidas Monument in Sparta appeared first on .

About the Spartan Archaeological Museum

In Ancient Greece, Sparta was a warrior society and the people were known for their bravery in battle. These ideals were prevalent in all aspects of their society, and this is exactly what this museum showcases. The museum itself has been around since 1874, and it is still standing today. This museum crams a lot of history in plenty of artifacts within each of its rooms.

Depending on how much time you want to spend at the museum, it can take you anywhere from one to two hours to see everything displayed. History buffs may even want to spend longer! This is a great museum for people from all around the world, and of all ages, so even families with small children are definitely welcomed.

What to See at the Spartan Archaeological Museum

Visiting this museum will give you a much better understanding on how the Spartan culture functioned. The majority of findings displayed are from the ancient Acropolis of Sparta, but also from the rest of the township of Laconia. All items showcased cover the period from the Neolithic to the late Roman Era.

On display in seven different rooms, are numerous ancient artifacts which include items such as mind blowing columns, clay masks from the sanctuary of Artemis Orthia, legendary figurines/sculptures and beautiful mosaics. Most people will even be happy to know that most explanations for displays are not only displayed in Greek, but also in English!

Here is a look at what will find in each of the museum’s seven rooms:

• Room I: Stelae of Roman years
• Room II: Finds from the shrine of Artemis Orthia
• Room III: Monumental sculpture and portraiture of Roman era
• Room IV: Prehistoric finds from the wider region of Lakonia
• Room V: Mosaics of the Hellenistic and Roman times
• Room VI: Architectonic parts of Apollo temple in Amyclae
• Room VII: Finds of Lakonian sculpture

How to Get to the Spartan Archaeological Museum

Finding Spartan Archaeological Museum is super simple considering it’s right smack in the middle of the city of Sparta, located right in downtown. Fortunately, numerous hotels are within walking distance of the museum such as Menelaion, Lakonia, Hotel Maniatis, Dioscouri and Apollon Hotel. Don’t feel like walking or you’re just a bit further away? If you don’t feel like walking, you can either drive your rental car or take a taxi right to the front door.

While in the city of Sparta, Greece you won’t want to miss the chance to visit this museum.

The post Tour the Archaeological Museum in Sparta, Greece appeared first on .

About the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil

Located in Sparta, the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil takes visitors on a journey through the history, culture, and technology of olives and the production of olive oil. The aim of the museum is to share the important relation of the olive with the identity of Greece. At the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil the olives and olive oil are presented according to the economy, uses of olives, nutrition, art and technology, and religious worship.

What to Do When You Visit the Museum

When you visit the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil you will see rare fossilized olive leaves that are 50-60,000 years old and came from Santorini. These are the oldest pieces of proof of the presence of olive trees in Greece. There are exact replicas of 14th century BC linear B tablets, which give the first testimonies of the olive and olive oil.

On the ground floor of the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil you will learn about the evolution of the technology used to produce olive oil starting from the ancient times to now. You will view exact replicas of Prehistoric, Hellenistic, and Byzantine olive presses, an olive press from the island of Lefkada dating to the 20th century, models that represent how engine-powered olive presses function, and a wooden double press with a winch that came from the nearby village of Xirokambi.

At the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil there are examples of ancient and contemporary art that show how the olive was, and still is, a source of inspiration for Greek artists. You will also see how the olive became a symbol in mythology, religion, and the manners and customs of Greeks.

You will be taken through each historical period and learn how the olive and olive oil played a role in the economy and every day life of the Greeks. This includes uses that are now outdated, such as using olives for lighting.

Children will enjoy the museum as well. They can look at the three old olive presses as well as large animated models that represent mechanically driven olive presses, which include: a water-powered olive press, a steam-powered olive press, and a diesel-powered olive press.

Getting to the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil

You can get to Sparta by taking a ferry to the port of Gythio, Sparta can be reached by car from Athens in three hours. Once in Sparta, you can get around on foot as it doesn’t cover a large area. If you get tired walking, you can take a taxi, which isn’t expensive around Sparta. The Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil is located at 129 Othonos Amalias Street.

While in Sparta, you should consider stopping in on the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil to learn about this aspect of Greek history and culture.

The post Visit the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil in Sparta appeared first on .