Mystras

Lying just a short distance from modern Sparta, Mystras is a stunning glimpse into Byzantine Greece. The town developed beneath a Frankish castle built in 1249, flourishing as the political, spiritual, and cultural heart of the Peloponnese. Art, literature, and religion thrived here for centuries, leaving a legacy that continues to captivate visitors today.

Even under Turkish occupation, Mystras prospered and played a role in Greece’s struggle for independence in 1821. Though the lower city was later destroyed and its inhabitants moved to modern Sparta, the medieval ruins remain impressively intact, set amidst a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills and olive groves.

During its heyday, Mystras was home to numerous churches, monasteries, and chapels, around 25 of which survive today. The most significant is the Cathedral of Aghios Dimitrios, whose restored frescoes reveal the town’s rich artistic heritage in the 14th century. At the northern corner, the 13th-century churches of Aghii Theodori and Panagia Odigitria, part of the Monastery of Vrontohi, once housed an extensive library and served as a major cultural centre.

Exploring Mystras is a journey through history: wander the cobbled alleys, crumbling streets, and atmospheric squares, imagining the lives of those who once lived here. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique blend of architecture, history, and landscape, making it an essential stop for any visitor to the Peloponnese.