Mystical Mystras

The drive to the truly unique site of Mystras crosses luxuriant countryside, filled with orange, fig and mulberry trees and takes you through the modern town of Sparta.  Although little remains of the ancient city, a stop will be made to pay homage to one of history's greatest heroes, Leonidas, the Spartan soldier king whose heroics at the battle of Thermopylae with his band of 300 warriors will remain as one of the most heroic battles in history.

This ancient city invites you to step back in time to the days of Byzantine Greece.  Standing proudly atop Myzythra Hill is the fortress of Mystras, built by the Franks in 1249 and taken over by the Greeks; this was the cradle of the last dynasty of Byzantine emperors. Wander the now deserted and eerie streets of this once invincible fortress, stopping off at Metropolis, from where there are spectacular views. A visit to St Demetrius Cathedral with its 5 domes and rare wall paintings of the Byzantine renaissance is sure to remain in your memory.