 Sparti
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Sparta, the beautiful city of the Peloponnese with its historic name and immense history, is the capital of Laconia. It is located 225 km from Athens. It is one of the most significant cities of the Peloponnese, built in a privileged geographical position.
Modern Sparta is built on the site of the ancient city. It is a relatively new city, as construction began in 1834 by order of King Otto and according to Bavarian plans. Notably, it was the first city in Greece constructed based on an organized urban plan (the second being Gytheio), which gives it excellent city layout and planning.
The city stretches beneath the imposing peaks of Mount Taygetus, which impress with its wild beauty, and to the northern part of the Eurotas River.
The surrounding plain is lush with olive groves, orange and lemon trees, mulberries, and other vegetation.
To the east of the city lies the Parnon mountain range, densely covered with firs and other trees.
As you explore the city, you will notice that Sparta is full of tree-lined avenues, parks, squares, and well-preserved neoclassical buildings, giving it a unique charm.
Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant nightlife and numerous youth hangouts. Visitors never get bored, as Sparta offers options to satisfy every preference.
The glorious past of Sparta and its world-famous history attract countless visitors to the Peloponnese. Unfortunately, the archaeological findings are limited compared to the city¢s historical significance and the legacy of the remarkable personalities it produced.
Among the archaeological sites worth visiting are the sanctuary of Chalkioikos Athena, whose worship continued until the 4th century AD, the sanctuary of Orthia Artemis, the Menelaion at the top of Prophet Elias Hill, where the deified Helen and Menelaus were worshiped, and the sanctuary of Amyclaean Apollo near the village of Amykles.
During your visit to Sparta, you will also see the statue of the city¢s lawgiver Lycurgus, the statue of King Leonidas, and the Leonidaion, where, according to tradition, the bones of the legendary king are buried.
Impressive are the many neoclassical buildings in the city, including the Sainopouleio Theater, the City Hall, the Courthouse, and the Archaeological Museum.
Also noteworthy are the Public Central Library, the Koumantareios Art Gallery, and the Municipal Market, which add to the city¢s cultural charm.
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