Off the beaten tourist track and away from the ‘sun, sea and sand’ holidaymakers, Sparta is the perfect place to get a spot of culture while you’re walking in Greece. The town, reconstructed following the Greek War of Independence, lies on the site of the original Sparta and has a typically Grecian laidback feel, thanks to its wide avenues and large squares. So why not stop off for a couple of days in Sparta and make the most of the culture in the Laconia Capital.
The Ancient Acropolis
To the north of the modern Sparta, you’ll find the site of the ancient Acropolis. This extensive site takes you back in time and truly shows the glory of Sparta. Consisting of the Roman Agora, the Church of Christ Saviour, the Temple of Athena Chalkionos, the theatre, and many other archaeological remains, this impressive site does not fail to portray the power for which the Spartans were so famous. Offering some of the most fascinating ruins you’re likely to see whilst walking in Greece, the ancient Acropolis will transport you back to the original Sparta.
Mystra
Follow the road eight kilometres out of Sparta, and sooner or later you will come across Mystra. A city once enclosed within walls, Mystra’s history is long and complicated. However, today the remains of its castle, churches and mansions, and what’s left of the walls enclosing it, remain the only example of a medieval settlement left in Greece. Teeming with history and legends the slopes of this ancient town were declared an archaeological site in 1921, when the last inhabitants were removed. The site has now been added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list and only the nuns living in the Pantanassa monastery remain. A popular place for those on holiday or walking in Greece, Mystra is full of myth and mystery.
Taygetus Mountains
The majesty of the Taygetus Mountains is inescapable. Taygetus itself, standing tall at 2407 metres high is one of the largest mountains in Greece. Named after Tayget, the daughter of Atlas, the rugged mountain looks down upon Sparta and Laconia, tempting all who visit to try to climb it. For anyone on holiday walking in Greece, tackling Mount Taygetus is a definite must. Walking in the foothills of the mountain you will come across olive groves galore, amongst other spectacular flora and fauna. However, for nature lovers, the real appeal of the spot is the birdlife. Lying on a major migration route for birds travelling from Europe to Africa, and covered in dense forest, this mountain is a haven for birds and birdwatchers alike.
Sparta has been represented as a powerful and strong Grecian entity for many years, and today, with Mount Taygetus looming over it as its protector, the modern Sparta still emanates this. Whilst you’re walking in Greece be sure to stop off at Sparta and enjoy the sense of seclusion that comes from being off the tourist track. As you wander around the ruins, let yourself be taken back to a different age that exists to us now only in books and on screen.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://mytravelarticles.com/images/rss.jpg "XML Feed For RSS")
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://mytravelarticles.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
