Mystras

Mystras, also known as the Despotate of the Morea, is one of Greece’s most captivating medieval archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located near the modern city of Sparta in the Peloponnese, Mystras was once a thriving Byzantine city and a major cultural, religious, and political center during the late Byzantine Empire. It offers visitors a unique window into Byzantine history, architecture, and art, with its well-preserved churches, palaces, monasteries, and fortifications.

Historical Background:

• Founded in 1249 by the Franks after the Fourth Crusade, Mystras was originally a fortress built on the steep slopes of Mount Taygetos to control the Laconian plain. However, the Byzantines quickly reclaimed it in 1262, and Mystras became the center of the Byzantine Despotate of the Morea.
• During its peak in the 14th and 15th centuries, Mystras was second only to Constantinople in importance. It was a significant intellectual and artistic hub, drawing scholars, artists, and theologians.
• The Palaiologos Dynasty, the last ruling dynasty of the Byzantine Empire, had a strong presence here. Constantine XI Palaiologos, the last Byzantine emperor, was crowned at Mystras before defending Constantinople against the Ottomans.
• Mystras flourished until the Ottoman conquest in 1460, although it continued to be inhabited until the early 19th century when it was abandoned after the Greek War of Independence.

Key Monuments and Features:

1. The Castle of Mystras:

• Frankish Origins: The highest point of Mystras is dominated by its castle, built by the Franks in 1249. Its strategic location on the summit of the mountain provided natural defenses, making it difficult for enemies to capture. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the Eurotas River valley, and the modern city of Sparta.
• Byzantine Modifications: When the Byzantines regained control, they fortified and expanded the castle, using it as both a military stronghold and a royal residence.

2. The Palace of the Despots:

• The Palace of the Despots (also known as the Palaiologan Palace) is a remarkable and well-preserved example of Byzantine architecture. It was the residence of the Byzantine rulers (the Despots) who governed Mystras.
• Complex Layout: The palace is a large and impressive multi-building complex, constructed and modified over several centuries. Its buildings include reception halls, administrative offices, and private quarters, and they showcase the mixture of Byzantine, Gothic, and Frankish architectural styles.
• Recent Restorations: Extensive restoration work has been done to preserve this historical building, and it is a major highlight for visitors interested in the political history of Mystras.

3. The Metropolis (Church of Agios Demetrios):

• The Church of Agios Demetrios is one of the most important religious structures in Mystras. Built in the 13th century, this church served as the Metropolitan Church (cathedral) of Mystras and was the religious heart of the city.
• Architecture: The church is a beautiful blend of Byzantine architectural styles, featuring both basilica and cross-in-square design elements. Its richly decorated interior includes frescoes and mosaics that exemplify the height of Byzantine religious art.
• Historical Significance: According to tradition, Constantine XI Palaiologos was crowned here as the final Byzantine emperor before his fateful defense of Constantinople in 1453.
• Famous Floor Mosaic: The church contains a famous floor mosaic of a two-headed eagle, the symbol of the Byzantine Empire.

4. Churches and Monasteries:

Mystras is famous for its collection of Byzantine churches, many of which are adorned with exquisite frescoes and architectural details.

• Pantanassa Monastery: Built in the 15th century, this monastery remains an active nunnery. It is one of the most impressive structures in Mystras due to its Gothic-influenced façade and ornate interior frescoes. The Pantanassa Monastery is still inhabited by nuns today, making it a living monument.
• Peribleptos Monastery: Known for its 14th-century frescoes, this monastery is carved into the rock of Mount Taygetos. The frescoes inside depict scenes from the Bible and are among the finest examples of late Byzantine art.
• Evangelistria Church: Another notable structure, dating from the 14th century, with its distinct Byzantine dome and beautiful wall paintings.

5. Frescoes and Byzantine Art:

• Mystras is a treasure trove of Byzantine art, particularly its frescoes, which adorn the interiors of many of the churches and monasteries. These frescoes provide an important visual record of Byzantine religious life and demonstrate the artistic sophistication of the period.
• The themes of these frescoes include scenes from the life of Christ, portraits of saints, and depictions of the Last Judgment. Many of the frescoes were created by master artists of the Palaiologan Renaissance, a cultural revival during the last centuries of the Byzantine Empire.

6. The Lower Town:

• Mystras is divided into two main sections: the Upper Town (where the castle and palace are located) and the Lower Town, which contains many of the churches, monasteries, and residences.
• The Lower Town was home to a thriving community of merchants, scholars, and craftsmen during the Byzantine period. Today, visitors can explore the remains of these once-bustling streets, as well as the numerous religious buildings that were central to the city’s cultural life.

Decline and Abandonment:

• After the Ottoman conquest in 1460, Mystras became a provincial center, but it gradually declined over the centuries. It continued to be inhabited until the early 19th century, when it was finally abandoned during the Greek War of Independence.
• In the mid-19th century, the inhabitants moved to the newly established modern city of Sparta, leaving Mystras to become an archaeological site. The once-bustling medieval city was left in ruins, but its legacy was preserved through the remarkable buildings and monuments that remain standing.

UNESCO World Heritage Status:

• In 1989, Mystras was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional testimony to the Byzantine civilization and its significant influence on the cultural and artistic developments of the time.
• Mystras is recognized for its unique combination of medieval urban planning, Byzantine architecture, and cultural achievements. It is one of the best-preserved examples of a Byzantine city and continues to draw historians, archaeologists, and tourists from around the world.

Modern Significance and Tourism:

• Mystras is a major destination for visitors interested in Byzantine history, art, and architecture. It is a peaceful, atmospheric site that allows visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a medieval Byzantine city.
• Visitors can explore the site’s narrow streets, climb to the castle for panoramic views, and visit the many churches, palaces, and monasteries that dot the landscape. The natural beauty of the surrounding Taygetos Mountains adds to the site’s appeal, making it a popular spot for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Conclusion:

The medieval city of Mystras is a remarkable monument to the Byzantine Empire’s final flourish and stands as a testament to its cultural, religious, and artistic achievements. As a political center, intellectual hub, and religious sanctuary, Mystras played a crucial role in the late Byzantine period. Today, it is a stunning archaeological site that offers insight into the complex history of medieval Greece, the Byzantine legacy, and the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of its time.