Messene: Audio-Guided Tour with Optional Entry Ticket Messene: Entrance + Audio Guide Tour of Ancient Messene
ID: GYG797772-O-1274627
Category:
Country: Greece
Duration:
1 days
Description
Ancient Messene is an archaeological gem, one of the best preserved archaeological sites in Greece, combining the grandeur of Delphi with the serenity and beauty of Olympia.
Explore the ancient city of Messene, cradle of fierce resistance, founded in the 4th century BC by Epaminondas of Thebes. Discover the remains of a rich and complex civilization that combines the history, culture and way of life of ancient Greece.
With our audio guide, start your tour at the Gate of Arcadia, then visit the museum before exploring the archaeological site. Imagine an ancient city, magnificently preserved, where every step reveals a piece of history. That's what you'll discover when you visit ancient Messinia, cradle of a fierce resistance founded in the 4th century BC by Epaminondas of Thebes.
The city of Messene embodies the struggle for freedom after centuries of Spartan domination, and thanks to the intervention of the Thebans, they were finally able to rebuild their city. Messene quickly became a symbol of resistance for its independence. Its meticulous urban planning, with its agora, theater, and fortifications, testifies to the determination to build a prosperous and enduring city.
Despite the efforts of its inhabitants, Messene lost its independence over time with the Roman and then Byzantine domination, and was finally abandoned during the Middle Ages. Rediscovered by archaeologists in the 19th century, Messene today reveals the remains of a rich and complex civilization that blends the history, culture and lifestyle of ancient Greece.
Marvel at the layout of the buildings and the water distribution network, evidence of an urban structure that was remarkable for the period. Discover the theater, capable of holding thousands of spectators, and appreciate the importance of sport in ancient Greece by exploring the gymnasium complex, with its well-preserved stadium where Messene athletes trained and competed.
You will visit the Agora, the central square where the citizens used to gather for commercial exchanges and political debates.
The Asclepion, the administrative center of the city, was also dedicated to the worship of numerous gods. Private houses, the Sarapis sanctuary of Egyptian gods, where archaeological excavations have unearthed numerous remains, offer a glimpse of daily life in the ancient city of Messene.
Highlights
- Step back in time as you explore the ancient city of Messene
- Discover the city's history and culture with an audio guide
- Explore the city's well-preserved theater, gymnasium, and stadium
- Visit the impressive remains of this ancient city
- Choose the option with entrance ticket for a hassle-free visit.
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons to explore Messene, when the temperatures are mild.
Messene is easily accessible by car from both Athens and the Peloponnese.
Ensure that you have downloaded the reading and visit application.
Ensure your smartphone is fully charged.
Ensure you have headphones or an audio headset.
This is the starting point of the audio tour. There is no real person accompanying you on the tour. To start your tour, you can choose any other point you find more interesting.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.