Mystras - Last Byzantine Stronghold

Mystras - Last Byzantine Stronghold

Travel to the north to the village of Sparta, where on the lower slopes of Mount Taygetos, stands the ruined city of Mystras. Once one of the most powerful of city-states, Sparta is today an unimposing modern town. The original Spartans lived an austere existence in barracks and cared little for buildings, monuments and the other "soft" trappings favored by their rivals; consequently scarcely a trace remains of their city to testify to its former might.

The location of the ancient city of Mystras, on the steep slopes of the mountain made it very difficult for enemies to assult the city walls, which was primarily why William II in 1249 erected the citadel at this location. The territory which is today Greece, had fallen into the hands of the Latin knights of the Fourth Crusade after they decided to conquer Constantinople in 1205. The city had two entrances - the Monovasia Gate and the Nauplion Gate - both connected by a road, which in effect divided the city into two parts, the northern, which served as quarters for the palace and noble officials, and the southern, which housed the townspeople. Enter the Upper Town of Mystra, arguably the most exciting and dramatic site in the entire Peloponnese, through the heavily fortified Nauplion Gate and the multi-storied complex of the Despots Palace. It is a glorious medieval town with mansions, churches, monasteries and palaces lining its steep, narrow streets. The city flourished for 200 years before falling to the Turks.

Enjoy time to wander through the delightful narrow lanes of this once invincible fortress and experience the spirit of Mystra, which seems to magically unfold about you. As your exploration of the "last Byzantine stronghold" concludes, reboard your coach for the return drive to Gythion.

Notes: There are numerous steep paths and stairs to negotiate on this tour; good walking shoes are recommended. Ladies are requested to have their shoulders covered; shorts must be knee length. Those who find the climb to the summit too strenuous will still be able to fully enjoy and admire the art in the beautifully painted churches of Aghios Dimitrios, the Evangelistria, and the Pantanassa.

A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures and prices in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final pricing and departures times will be published onboard.

Port: Gythio

Duration: 4 hours

Current Price: 149 USD