Our next stop on our 2024 journey through the Peloponnese area of Greece was Ancient Sparta. This is another spot we had been advised to skip. We are really glad we didn’t listen. Although Ancient Sparta is not a huge ruin it is significant and has its own vibe. It consists of an Ancient Acropolis and Theatre. Of course it was another near 100 degrees F day but it did not feel so bad as there was ample shade, with the trees adding to the allure. We did this as a self-guided tour but both Viator and GetYourGuide offer a day trip from Athens tour which includes the site of Mystras which will be my next post.
Location
Ancient Sparta is located in the Peloponnese area of Greece. Southwest of Nafplio and also Southwest of Athens. It is between a 2.5 and 3 hour drive from Athens International Airport.
Ancient Sparta
The thought of Sparta evokes the powerful presence of fearless, fierce warriors clad in bronze armor and striking red cloaks, living in a regimented military culture. In stark contrast, the modern remnants of Ancient Sparta gave me a peaceful feeling. While it may be less developed than other locations, the ruins are still impressive with broken columns emerging from the surrounding trees. I had to look twice before I figured out they were not tree stumps!
The Acropolis, which Sparta is sitting on, was the government and religious hub of the city from the 8th century BC until the Romans conquered Sparta and Greece. After the Romans’ conquest, it became more of an area for public meetings and socialization through the Byzantine times.
Ancient Sparta is very walkable, easy to get around and is a smaller site than some we have seen. The Acropolis trail is a loop trail so you end up where you started. In addition the well marked descriptive signs are throughout to give you an understanding of what you are viewing. It took us just over a half of an hour to self-tour the site. If the Theatre had been accessible I am sure we would have spent a bit more time there as well.
History of Ancient Sparta
Archeological studies show Sparta tracing back to the 9th century BC although it did not rise to power until the 6th century BC. Some believe the rise of Sparta coincided with the decline of the Mycenaean Culture. By 650 BC Sparta became the dominant military force throughout the Peloponnese and remained so until 371 BC when Sparta was defeated in battle by Thebes in the Battle of Leuctra. Although defeated in that battle, Sparta continued to be an independent nation until 146 BC when the Roman’s conquest.
Sparta governed by two kings sharing equal power and assuming titles through heredity. Military excellence was the goal of the Spartan culture. As a matter of fact, Sparta’s entire civilization was all about military greatness. From the early age of 7, Spartan boys began their military training in earnest. While living in commune like quarters with other boys, the young Spartans had a lot to learn. Along with general studies, physical strength, survival skills, obedience, loyalty, self-discipline, and above all, military combat skills were taught.
As for the Spartan girls and women, with more freedom bestowed on them than most females in those days, they led a fairly autonomous life. The girls were educated, allowed to participate in sports, move freely about the city, own property, and even make business transactions.
The Roman Stoa
The Roman Stoa was the first site we came upon. Built around 125-150 AD, it was at the southern end of the Agora (public space). During Roman times, the stoa connected the Acropolis and the Agora with the living area to the south. Once a covered walkway with grand arches and Doric colonnade, this must have been quite impressive in its day. Used as a public space for social interactions, there were most likely businesses and shops in this area.
The Round Building
Built on a small hill, this structure follows the natural slope and is made of heavy rocks. It has three large steps leading to a flat platform on top. Different buildings have been constructed on this platform throughout history. Dating from the 7th to 5th century BC, it has featurs of a tholos. A central hearth indicates it’s us for rituals and religious gatherings. Additionally, there is evidence of a monument in the northwest area of the mound, possibly for statues of gods or a ruler.
There are alos ruins of, a Byzantine Church on the western edge of the retaining wall.
St Nikon’s Basilica
St Nikon’s is a three-aisled Basilica that also has three apse. The Basilica showcased columns separating each aisle. A semi-circular seating arrangement for the bishop and priests to use during ceremonies in the middle apse. An altar and a table for offerings have also been found. This Basilica dates back to the 6th and 7th century AD.
Sanctuary of Athena Chalkiokos
This is the oldest sanctuary on the Acropolis. Archaeologists have validated finds back to the Mycenaean period. This temple and Cult of Athena in Ancient Sparta can date to the 8th century BC on this Acropolis. The interior walls of this temple housed bronze plaques with mythological scenes. Also there was a bronze statue of the goddess Athena. The temple’s name, Athena Chalkiokos comes from the goddess Athena, and the chalkiokos which means the bronze or bronzen house. Worship at this sanctuary was related to both military life and public life in the ancient city. It was a gathering place for the warriors and also a place for athletic achievements. Memorials were constructed to remember military successes and honor the winners of various events.
The Niched Building
This building is a large rectangular building with two smaller buildings on each side. Each of the smaller rooms have a semi-circular niche. This building has had many changes over the years. Two built-in storage containers from the Byzantine era have been identified in the building as well as a cistern. Most likely built around the 4th century AD. Located next to St. Nikon’s Basilica there may have been some correlation with the buildings.
The Theatre of Ancient Sparta
The path to the Theatre of Ancient Sparta was blocked for restoration work. This theatre, built into the hillside like many Greek theatres, offers magnificent views. Although ancient writings show a theatre existed in Sparta since the 5th century BC, this one was constructed around 20-30 BC. Made of local marble, it is quite large, with the lower theatre featuring 10 staircases and nine seating levels, while the upper theatre has 17 staircases and 16 seating levels. It could hold up to 17,000 spectators.
The Way Back
We followed the path which was on the other side of the above mentioned areas towards where we started. It was a nice walk and I really enjoyed seeing the ruins among the trees and just lying there where they have for years. I guess more accurately it is the trees among the ruins. You could also turn back and retrace your steps.
The Agora
The Agora is located near the round building and once was two stories. Most likely built during the 4th or 3rd century BC. The Agora was the marketplace. You could buy groceries, supplies, and most things you needed here or you could just go to socialize.
Statue of King Leonidas
The statue of King Leonidas represents the great Spartan Warrior. His stand against the Persians showed great bravery and he is a favorite hero among many.
Tomb of Leonidas
We found this ruin while walking around the plate in modern Sparta trying to find a place for a snack! Surrounded by a fence and unmarked, I had no idea what this was. My google research tells me it is the Tomb of Leonidas. According to what I have found, it was once the ancient temple of Karneios Apollo. The remains of the great Spartan Warrior and King, Leonidas lie here.
We did find a spot to snack at and it was great to sit for a bit and relax with a cold glass of fredo, spanokopita and tiropita. I cannot recall where we ate but it was a few steps from the Platia and there is a Kiosk next too it. It is a coffee shop, not a tavrena. Coffee and pies were excellent and the staff was super friendly!
Conclusion
Ancient Sparta is another spot it the Peloponnese area I would not miss. Again, not a huge built up site but the serenity of seeing the ruins basically where they fell over the years is quite a humbling site to see. Although it does look like there has been rebuilding and a lot of work at the site, I still loved the fact that it is a more subdued spot.
Planning
All good trips take some planning. I have found many Youtube shows, online information, tour books, and maps that help with my trip planning. For the Peloponnese I recommend the following
Rick Steve’s guide to Athens and the Peloponnese which you can click here to view on Amazon.
My tried and true tour guides for just about everywhere is the DK Eyewitness Guides. If you follow my posts, you will see I have recommended these for everywhere we go, from the USA to Europe. I love the way these books are broken down in sections for top 10 of each area, type of tours, places of interest and even places to eat. You can can click here to view the DK Eyewitness Guide for Mainland and Peloponnese
National Geographic Map. Even though GPS is great, it is always a good idea to have a map on hand and I love the Nationanal Geographic Maps for their durability. I have one from everyplace we travel and have never regretted it. You can click here to view on Amazon.
I really love Robert Polasek’s videos of Greece. The video’s are well filmed and show so many places of each area. You can click here to watch his video on Peloponnese.
Greek.com is an online site that has a plethora of information on Greece. You can click here to view the Peloponnese information.
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Click on the links below to also follow my 2024 Greek Travels:
Anthemion Suites and Villas, Greece-August 2024
A Bit of Charm in Nafplio, Greece-August 2024
Acronauplia Fortress-August 2024
Argos Theatre and Also Agora-August 2024
Exploring the Larissa Castle of Argos,Greece-August 2024
Snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus. August 2024
Ancient Epidaurus: Birthplace of Modern Medicne August 2024
Mycenaean Bridge and Acropolis of Kazarma-August 2024
Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2024
Ancient Mycenae Greece-August 2024
2 Weeks in Greece-Delphi, Meteora, Corfu, Santorini, and Also Athens, Sept 2022
14 Days in Greece-Crete,Naxos, Santorini Sept 2021
10 Day Greece Itinerary-Crete, Santorini, Athens, September 2019
8 Day Greece Itinerary-Athens, Milos, Santorini, September/October 2018
The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
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Thank for such researched history of Ancient Sparta. We loved the feel of it too, and found the History Cafe right opposite Leonidas’ tomb. I had gone in search of the tomb specifically, the cafe was a bonus. I don’t know about you, but whilst sat there (and particularly when I went downstairs to the loo) I had a strong sense of the souls that were there before us. It felt very emotional.
Happy new Year
Barb
X
Sparta definitely has a mystic sort of vibe. I agree it is an emotional place. Happy New Year to you as well, Barb!
This is a lovely tour of Sparta. We were there two years ago, and enjoyed it as you did. Your photos and the details you include remind me of why we enjoyed the Peloponnese so much. Thanks!
Thank you! Went fell in love with the Peloponnese. Thinking of a return visit in 2026 to the area. The more I learn of the history the more intriguing it is! Happy New Year!!
I’ve only heard of Sparta from its eponymous warriors (Spartans) and the film “300.” But it’s interesting to learn about this actual civilization in Greece and how fairly liberal it was with the sexes (i.e. girls could play sports and get an education). Sounds like an insightful trip! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I enjoyed researching this site and learning about the civilization while there. It was very interesting!
Thorough tour. Thank you!
Thank you!
This was extremely interesting. I enjoyed it a lot. Thanks!
Thank you!
Glad to hear Ancient Sparta was worth visiting, even if it was stinking hot outside. It’s neat how the ruins are amongst the trees (or rather the trees are among the ruins).
I really loved the trees among the ruins. It took me a minute to find out they were not tree stumps!
Such a lot of history in this place Lori. It is nice to see it so peaceful after all the wars that were fought in the day. Those spanokopita and tiropita look delicious. Have a great Thursday. Allan
It is truly a remarkable place. The food was delicious as always! Thanks for your comment, Allan!
I studied Greek history, including Spartan almost 40 years ago 🤭 and I don’t remember anything of it except that I enjoyed it. So reading your post was very interesting. Thank you.
Thank you! I find Greek history fascinating!
You are welcome, me too.