Feel like escaping to the Peloponnese? Be sure to visit Mistra, one of Greece’s jewels!
Located in the Peloponnese region, west of Sparta, the Byzantine city of Mistra (or Mystra) is one of the wonders of Greece. Perched on a hill in the Mount Taygetos massif, this sublime town of medieval origin was definitively abandoned during the Greek War of Independence (1821-1829).
Today, Mistra la Morte is a ghost town in the heart of a breathtaking natural setting. A characteristic that has earned it UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status. As you wander around, you’ll be able to contemplate its contours, ruins and impressive monuments.
Thinking of going to Mistra? Then check out our selection of 7 things to see in Mistra, so you don’t miss a thing when you get there!
1. The fortress and its ramparts
Photo credit: Shutterstock – IURII BURIAK
The fortress of Villehardouin is the impressive castle that dominates the town of Mistra and the plain of Sparta. Built in 1249 by Guillaume II de Villehardouin, during the occupation of the Franks, it rises to 620 meters above sea level and has a double enclosure.
In 1259, Mistra Castle changed hands following Villehardouin’s imprisonment, the lord choosing to buy back his freedom by entrusting the fortress to the emperor Paleologos. Subsequently, the inhabitants of neighboring Laconia sought the protection of the new owner and settled on the slopes of the hill, creating the town (Chora) behind the castle walls.
Today, this complex can be admired. If you choose to visit Mistra in summer, just remember to bring a hat, a bottle of water and good shoes, as the area is very exposed.
2. The Despot’s Palace
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Leonid Andronov
The Despot’s Palace is a compendium of the city’s history, making it a must-see. It stands on two sides of an esplanade that was once the heart of the city.
On the right are the oldest buildings in the complex, probably dating back to the reign of Guillaume II de Villehardouin (13th century). On the left, the buildings date back to the reigns of the despots of the 14th and 15th centuries.
Well-preserved and restored, the Palace can still be seen today. During your visit, you’ll be able to admire the richness of its architecture.
3. Churches and monasteries
The Mistra Metropolis
Photo credit: Shutterstock – PetraKub
A visit to Mistra is all about discovering its religious monuments. Built around 1240 by Metropolitan Eugene, the Metropolis of Mistra is one of the most important. It was once the seat of the city’s bishopric.
This architectural ensemble includes the Basilica of Agios Dimitrios and the Episcopal Palace, which has housed Mistra’s Archaeological Museum since 1952. The 14th-century frescoes adorning the Basilica’s vault are among the finest in the region.
The Monastery of Peribleptos
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Thomas Kauroff
South of the lower town, the Peribelptos monastery houses a church set into the rock. This late Byzantine building was erected in the mid-14th century by the first despot of Morea, Manuel Cantacuzene.
The frescoes that cover its walls are its main point of interest. Created in the mid-14th century, they feature picturesque details relating to the Incarnation of Christ. A must-see in Mistra.
Pantanassa Monastery
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Joaquin Ossorio Castillo
The Monastery of Pantanassa, or « Monastery of the Sovereign Virgin », was founded in 1428 by John Frangopoulos, minister of the Moraean despot Constantine XI Palaeologus. Today, its cloister is still occupied by half a dozen Orthodox nuns. Situated at an altitude of 425 metres, it overlooks the Sparta plain and boasts lovely panoramic views.
The Brontochion monastery
Photo Credit: Shutterstock – Pit Stock
In Mistra’s heyday, this monastery was the city’s cultural center, hosting cultural activities and the graves of despots.
It is home to two churches: Agios Teodoros and Aphentiko. The former boasts Mistra’s largest octagonal cross-shaped dome and beautiful paintings, while the latter boasts exceptional frescoes.
Agia Sofia Church
Photo credit: Shutterstock – ColorMaker
Just a stone’s throw from the Despot’s Palace, the Agia Sofia church is an outstanding example of late Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture. It was established in the 14th century by Manuel Cantacuzene, the first despot of Morea. Several Byzantine empresses were buried here.
Later, chapels were added to the building. One of them has preserved its beautiful frescoes, well worth a visit.
4. The Archaeological Museum
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Mino Surkala
What can you do in Mistra to better understand its history? Discover its archaeological museum, of course! Founded in 1952, this educational facility is housed in the west wing of the Mistra Metropolis. It brings together the results of excavations carried out in the city, displaying remains dating from the early Christian era to the post-Byzantine period.
In 2001, the museum was transformed to accommodate the latest discoveries made on the site. This also enabled the permanent exhibition to be reorganized. It now has a highly interesting thematic approach.
5. Medieval houses and residences
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Georgios Kritsotakis
On the side of the hill that bears Mistra, behind the ramparts that once protected it, the ruins of ancient medieval houses can still be seen. Damaged by time, all that remains of these residences are piles of stone, the silhouettes of which can only be guessed at.
A few educational signs will make the job easier, unless you prefer to rely on your imagination. As you stroll along, you can admire the Laskaris, Palataki and Frangopoulos houses, residences that once belonged to influential Mistra families.
6. Local specialities
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Slawomir Fajer
A visit to Mistra also means enjoying the gastronomy of the Peloponnese region. While the archaeological site doesn’t have its own restaurant, there are several tavernas nearby where you can grab a bite to eat before starting your ascent.
At the table, you can try ladhera, vegetable dishes in sauce that have earned the nickname « Greek-style dishes ». This specialty is based on a sauce of tomato and delicious local olive oil.
You can also enjoy the region’s herb-rich casseroles. One example is veal giouvetsi, a dish concocted in an earthenware casserole dish much appreciated by the Greeks.
7. Walk on Mount Taygetos
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Svineyard
What’s there to do in Mistra? Why not try a walk on Mount Taygetos. Associated with numerous myths, this sublime massif dominates the mountainous landscapes of the Peloponnese region. Its vegetation and the monuments that dot its slopes make for a particularly exciting hike. The Mistra fortress on its heights and the Metropolis at its lower entrance are just two examples.
To complete the entire trail, you’ll need to allow around two hours for the round trip, and bring appropriate footwear as the terrain can be challenging. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be able to contemplate an impressive panorama of the archaeological site and the Spartan plain.
If you’d like to continue your itinerary on Mount Taygetos, there are a number of rural trails to take you into the heart of the massif.
How do I get to Mistra?
By car
The journey from Paris to Mistra is over 3,000 km long! An adventure that only the bravest will be bold enough to attempt. If you’re a road trip enthusiast, this route will take you through countries such as Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia and Macedonia.
If you’re planning to reach Greece by other means, Mistra is just a 15-minute drive from Sparta. This proximity means it’s perfectly served by the Peloponnese freeway linking Corinth and Kalamata.
FromAthens, it takes around 3 hours by car to reach the city.
By plane
You can land at either Sparta or Athens airports, both easily accessible from major French and European cities. For the best prices, take a look at the Skyscanner flight comparator.
Once you’ve arrived, you can either rent a car or hop on a bus to your destination. There are several daily routes between Athens and Sparta, as well as a Sparta-Mistra line. We recommend renting a car, as it will give you more freedom to visit Mistra and the surrounding area.
Où loger à Mistra ?
Accolée au site archéologique, la ville actuelle de Mistra sera le parfait point de chute lors de votre séjour. Sur place, plusieurs hébergements tels que des Airbnb, des hôtels et des gîtes vous attendent.
Pour trouver le meilleur hébergement, pensez à vous renseigner sur un comparateur d’hôtels. Cette aide précieuse vous permettra de trouver le confort adapté à vos exigences (piscine, spa, restaurant, vue panoramique…). Il faudra compter environ 110€ pour une nuit.
Vous savez désormais que voir lors d’un passage à Mistra !
Carte des hôtels et logements – Péloponnèse