One of Greeces most important castle towns awaits your discovery about 5 km from Sparta. Mystras in spring is pure magic.
Built on the slopes of Taygetos inLaconia, a breath away from Sparta,the Byzantine castle-town of Mystras is one of Greeces most fascinating archaeological sites, set in a landscape of unique beauty.
Exploring Mystras is a unique experience in every season, but in spring it is simply magical. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989, the deserted and atmospheric town captivates the visitor with its Byzantine churches, its walls and its stunning views.
Exploring the castle-town of Mystras
Now deserted, the castle-town was once a brilliant and powerful Byzantine city. The history of Mystras begins in the mid-13th century, when the conquest of the Peloponnese by the Franks was completed and William II of Villehardouin built a strong wall and a castle at the summit of a hill called Mystras or Myzithras.
Over the years, a whole castle-town developed, which passed into the hands of the Byzantines, the Ottomans and the Venetians. The archaeological site consists of the medieval castle and the fortified settlement, which encloses within its walls monasteries, churches, chapels, houses and palaces.
The best-known surviving monuments are the imposing Hagia Sophia, the Palace of the Despots, the Monastery of Pantanassa, the Metropolis (or St Demetrios), Saints Theodoroi and Panagia Odigitria, while on the southern side of the Lower Town lie the ruins of the mansions of Laskaris and Fragkopoulos. The museum rounds off in the best possible way a tour of one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
Accommodation
The luxurious guesthousePyrgos of Mystraswelcomes travelers into a unique setting of luxury, comfort and refined aesthetics. Each room is a distinct, striking stage set. Mystras Grand Palace and Euphoria Retreat are two impressive five-star hotels that refresh the tourism profile of the area around the Byzantine castle-town and appeal to travelers who want to combine exploration of the archaeological site with luxury accommodation and wellness services. Alternatively, you can stay at the traditionally built Mazaraki Guesthouse in nearby Pikoulianika.
Food
A must-taste stop is the restaurant Chromata, in Pikoulianika, for delicious dishes of creative Greek cuisine (its best to book a table in advance). For traditional Greek cuisine, head to the taverna Pikoulianika, while for food and coffee with a wonderful view note the Xenia cafe-restaurant.
