Mystras is a fortified town near Sparta in Greece. The town of Mystras was a Byzantine stronghold that now sits virtually empty; the only inhabitants are a group of nuns and feral cats living in the Pantanassa Monastery. Mystras is unique in Greece, as it dates to around the Medieval period (rather than the Classical). Mystras is…
Exploring the Portara in Naxos, Greece
Read moreThe Portara, or “great door”, is a large marble doorway in Naxos, Greece. It is a fantastic place to watch the sunrise or sunset and is easily accessible for tourists! The site is located near the port on the islet Palatia, which was a hill on Naxos before sea-level rise. A causeway connects Palatia to the…
The Island of Delos: History and Sites
Read moreThe archaeological site of Delos is a protected entire island near Mykonos in the Cyclades. Delos is very closely tied to Apollo and Artemis and was once a huge trade center. Now, the island sits in ruin and is visited by 100,000 people each year as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mythology In Greek mythology, the twin…
The Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus: A Hillside Excursion
Read moreHey ya’ll! Welcome back to my Site Sunday series. Last week, we talked about the Acropolis in Athens. This week, we’ll be talking about the Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus, which is also in Athens, Greece. The Theatre of Dionysus Eleuthereus sits at the base of the Acropolis and premiered some of the most famous plays…
A Complete Guide to the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
Read moreHey y’all! Welcome to my new Site Sunday series, where I feature a new archaeological site each week. First up is the Acropolis in Athens, Greece! The Acropolis, which means “city top” or “citadel”, served as the administrative and religious center of Athens. The Athenian Acropolis rises nearly 500 feet over the city and has…
Her Life in Ruins Guide to Greece: Mainland and the Cyclades
Read moreThree years ago (!!!), I was in the middle of the greatest experience of my life: studying abroad in Greece. During my time in this breathtaking country, I explored the countryside, the cities, and the Aegean islands. Right now, Greece is the ideal destination for the budget traveler, as flights are cheap (check Momondo for…