Mystras is the jewel of the area – a whole medieval city climbing a steep hill of Taygetos, 6 km north-west of Sparta, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989. It began in 1249, when the Frankish prince William II Villehardouin built a castle on the top. In 1349 it became the capital of the Byzantine Despotate of the Morea, ruled by the Kantakouzenos and then the Palaiologos families, and a centre of art and learning – the philosopher Plethon taught here. Constantine Palaiologos, the last Byzantine emperor, was crowned here in 1449. It surrendered to the Ottomans in 1460.
The city has three parts: the castle at the top, the Upper Town (Ano Chora) with the Palace of the Despots and the mansions, and the Lower Town (Kato Chora) with monasteries, churches and fountains. Allow at least half a day, wear good shoes and bring water – the paths are steep and stony.