Acropolis of Sparta

Τhe Acropolis of Sparta is one of the most important archeological sites in the prefecture of Laconia. Excavations began at the end of last century under the guidance of American and Greek archaeologists while since 1905 digging has been carried out by the British Archaeological School at Athens. New excavations have begun five years ago, mainly at the area of the theatre and the shops.
In the period 1960-1965 Prof. Chr. Christou was in charge of the investigations with the financial support of the Greek Archaeological Society. Finally in the period 1992-1995 excavations are being carried out by the British School at Athens.
The temple of Athena Chalkioikos on the top of the Acropolis is defined more by some indications from the excavation rather than by the architectural ruins themselves. The temple, which was constructed on the plans of the architect Vathykles from Magnesia, had its interior decorated with bronze sheets.
The ancient theatre of Sparta at the south side of the acropolis, is dated to the Early Imperial period. It preserves the orchestra, the retaining walls of the cavea with inscriptions of the rulers of Sparta during Roman times and part of the cavea of the large theatre. The scene was used to be wheeled in metal bars fixed to the ground.
The so-called circular building of unknown use was built with carefully worked blocks and smaller stones. In Roman time it was repaired and took the form that preserves until today. The ancient building probably played an important role in the city’s life.
Remains of shops just by the ancient theatre were revealed in old and recent excavations conducted by the British Archaeological School at Athens. They were constructed in the Roman Imperial period, using mainly tiles while plaster decorated their interior. They served people attending performances and other kind of shows in the ancient theatre.

Administrative Information:

Ephorate of Antiquities of the Prefecture of Lakonia
Τ.Κ. 23100, Sparti (Prefecture of Lakonia)
Telephone: +30 27310 28575
Fax: +30 27310 21516
Email: efalak@culture.gr

Tickets:
Free access

Open:
08:00-20:00

Source: www.odysseus.culture.gr
Ephorate of Antiquities of the Prefecture of Lakonia