Mystras is a fortified town on the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. It represents one of the most significant monasteries in the plethora of religious and architectural wonders that everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime. The most spectacular segment of Mystras is surely the Metropolis of Saint Demetrios (Agios Dimitrios) church, built in the early 13th century.
The church went through various transformations until it reached its final form with five cupolas, typical for the late byzantine period.
The paintings in the Metropolis represent three different stages, including the Cycle of Life, the Passions and the Resurrection of Christ. These three motives are depicted in the central nave of the church, while the rest of the vault represents the Miracles of Christ.
The Museum of Mystras is home to rare examples of byzantine artifacts removed from different churches in the region. The history-loving travelers would enjoy seeing the holy icons and sculptures that survived centuries of turbulent history and different empires. Mystras is a place that will take you back in time, showing you the power of the byzantine architecture.
Saint Demetrios church is surrounded by pine trees and mixed forest, standing on the top of a hill, offering spectacular vistas of the region. Visiting this sacred spot is recommended in spring when temperatures are mild and it's not too hot to climb your way up to the church. Metropolis of Saint Demetrios is one of a lifetime experience that will make you ask yourself why ancient architecture was so much better than modern designs? The answer probably lies in the different ways of living and thinking, full of challenges and religious devotion.
However, this is one of the most extraordinary places on the peninsula, and if you ever come near, you should definitely visit.
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