The city of Mystras was founded by the Franks in 1249, but was soon captured by the Byzantines and in the 15th century became a major center of Byzantine culture. But in the 19th century the city was completely devastated by Turkish troops and now only ruins remain.
The oldest church in the city, the Mitropoli, was built in 1291. Frescoes from the 14th century depict the torment of St. Demetrius, the cathedral's patron, as well as scenes on the themes of the miracles of Christ. The last Byzantine emperor, Constantine Palaiologos, was crowned in this cathedral in 1449.
The 14th-century Perivleptou Monastery is famous for the frescoes of its cathedral. They are dedicated to twelve main religious holidays. The dome of the church is decorated with the image of Pantocrator surrounded by the Mother of God and the Prophets.
The grand complex of the Palace of Rulers includes the main building and several wings. Representatives of the Cantacuzine and Palaiologan dynasties lived and ruled here.
The church of the only currently active monastery of Pantanassa is the latest, built in 1428, but also the most beautiful. Several nuns still live and pray here.
The 13th-century monastic complex of Vrontokhion was built by Abbot Pachomios. There are two churches here: the Church of Aghiou Theodoro with the largest dome in Mystras and the six-domed church of Aghiou Afendiko, decorated with beautiful frescoes.
The fortress of Villehardouin is located on top of a hill. Its construction began in 1249. It was rebuilt by both the Byzantines and the Turks. It was here that Goethe arranged the meeting between Faust and Helen of Troy.
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