Besides the citadel of Mystras, the city was in fact a complete city which befitted its status as the capital of the Despotate of the Morea including an administration center, shops, homes, and churches.
One of the remaining churches. The frescos date from the time the city was active.
The Palace and Administrative Center, which is being rebuilt:
For up to 800 years, the ruins still stand magnificently:
An excellent collection of photographs. So interesting to see and amazing to think so much has been preserved. Looks like they're doing a good job on restoration. Do they have any idea of what it's population would have been?
ReplyDeleteThank you Leigh. It's preservation is unique, partially because (I suspect) it never underwent a full military attack and was simply abandoned.
DeleteIn terms of population, the Interweb reliably tells me it was 5,000-6,000 at its height (your mileage may vary).
Sure had a sunny day visiting that site. Are there plans to restore those frescos?
ReplyDeleteNylon12, it was sunny virtually our whole visit.
DeleteNo idea specifically on the frescos, but they are in fact restoring parts of the city, so who knows?
Amazing. I never thought Greece had so many interesting locations that are still available to view.
ReplyDeleteI was amazed too. There was so much history that I simply did not know about.
DeleteMr TB,
ReplyDeleteLike your share here. A lady friend I’ve recently taken up with did a tourist trip to Greece some decade or more ago. I am going to share your posts with this Ms J and get her reaction.
Franknbean
Thanks FnB, and thanks for the referral! I would be interested in her reaction from a decade ago.
DeleteI love those frescos.
ReplyDeleteBecki, we saw many wonderful frescos (and there are ones in more complete shape to come!).
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