Gythion-Tour to Sparta & Mystras

Depart the port of Gythion and enjoy a drive of approximately 50 kms through the Evrotas Valley in order to reach Sparta. Here, you will enjoy a short orientation drive through modern Sparta, viewing what remains today of the glorious past of this ancient Greek city / state, before making your way to the ruined Byzantine City of Mystras, nearby. Upon arrival at this ancient city, leave your motorcoach and follow your guide for an extensive uphill visit on foot. This ancient city was once divided into three sectors: The castle built by Villehardouin (Kastro), the Upper Town, for the aristocracy and Lower Town, for the local citizens. Listen carefully to your guide as he/she points out some of the most important monuments, such as the Cathedral of Saint Demetrios, with it’s two-headed eagle engraved in the floor, symbolizing the Byzantium, Greek Orthodoxy and Paleologos Dynasty, which ruled the Byzantine empire in its last years. Continue further along the street, heading west, to see the Mortuary Chapel of the Evangelista (Annunciation) before making your way to the northern corner of the enclosure, where stands, the impressive Vrondocheon Monestary, with its two churches: the church St Theodore and the church of the Virgin Mary Hodegetreia, also known as Afendiko, who’s wall paintings will hold you spellbound. Before your walking tour comes to a close, marvel of the ruined houses and the palaces which are closed due to restorations, before walking down hill to rejoin your motorcoach. You will then return directly to Gythion and the ship.