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Ancient Messene
Enjoy a sightseeing visit to Ancient Messene, the ancient capital city of Messinia. One of the largest archaeological sites in Greece in terms of its size, form and preservation and yet it is still one of the least well known. The city was re-established in 371BC and built upon the earlier ancient city which was built in the 8C BC. Excavation of this 3000-year-old city began approx. 35 years ago and is ongoing today and therefore the site keeps growing in size and in importance.
“The city has the rare advantage of not having been destroyed or covered by later settlements and of being situated in an untouched Mediterranean natural environment par excellence. This landscape combines the mountainous majesty of Delphi and the lowland riverine tranquillity of Olympia, with the looming bare limestone mass of Mt Ithome and its acropolis, and the low, fertile valley around the ancient city.
The archaeological site and monuments of Ancient Messene constitute an exceptional testimony to the urban environment and living conditions of an ancient Greek city, preserving all those elements that make up the ancient Greek way of life in an ancient Greek city (secular, religious, political/administrative, residential, funerary).” Visit UNESCO for more details
Today you can see ancient temples, the stoa and the amphitheatre which is almost complete. Along with the gymnasium, the water system and other important buildings the impressive stadium with its white marble seating is a must.
Before we leave we make a visit to the museum which houses a selection of the finds from the site.
We can also take you to this site on a private tour
