Cities of Antiquity

Discover the ruins of the Palace of Nestor, one of the best-preserved sites of the Mycenaean civilization. Begin your journey with a drive by motor coach to Navarino Bay, a deep natural harbor set on the southwestern coast of the Peloponnese. Here, you will visit the remains of the Palace of Nestor at Pylos. Built during the 13th century BC by the legendary king of the Homeric epics, the palace was almost completely destroyed by fire a century later. Extensive excavations viewed from an elevated platform offer a glimpse into what the palace once looked like; see the sprawling floorplan, including the throne room with its circular clay heath, discover various workshops and the wine cellar, and view the frescoes that adorn the palace walls. Take in the sweeping views of the bay and surrounding countryside before returning to your ship.

Discover the ruins of Niokastro and Methoni, which once guarded the Peloponnese peninsula. Originally built by the Ottomans during the late 16th century, the hulking stone battlements and projecting bastions of Niokastro’s upper castle sit strategically atop a hill, while the walls of its larger lower castle sweep down the hillside to the sea. Walk the grounds, enjoy panoramic views of Navarino Bay and learn more about Greek history at the two onsite museums. Then, continue down the coast to Methoni, built by the Venetians during the early 13th century and surrounded on three sides by water. Cross over the stone bridge that spans its wide moat and enter this fortified acropolis. Learn the castle’s storied history and see the remains of several buildings, including the fortified octagonal tower on the islet of Bourtzi. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Marvel at the complex urban development of ancient Messene at its impressive archaeological site. Journey inland to ancient Messene at the fertile foothills of Mt. Ithome. Founded in 369 BC, the layout for this former capital city was based on the geometric principles of Greek architect and urban planner Hippodamus. Extensive excavations of the site have revealed the ambitious extent of Hippodamus’s city planning and how it harmoniously conforms to the surrounding landscape. With your knowledgeable guide, walk through this well-preserved piece of history and view the sights, including the fortified city walls, a gigantic stadium and the impressive temple dedicated Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine. At the onsite museum, tour its extensive collection of artifacts to gain more insight about what you have just seen. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Uncover the beauty rich culture and historical influence of the former Byzantine capital of Mystras. Located on the slopes of Mt. Taygetos, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mystras was known for spearheading the Palaeologan Renaissance. Prosperous and powerful, Mystras was second only to Constantinople at the height of its power during the 14th and 15th centuries. Follow your guide up the hill and through the castle gate, walk along the narrow cobblestone lanes and pass the ruins of palaces, monasteries and churches. Visit the Church of Saint Demetrios and view the two-headed eagle embedded in its floor, a symbol of the Palaeologos Dynasty. You will also tour the heavily renovated Palace of Despots and stop to admire the well-preserved frescoes inside the Late Byzantine church of Hagia Sophia and the Pantanassa Monastery.

Travel to the remnants of an ancient village for an in-depth look at authentic olive oil production. Meet your motor coach and drive into the Greek countryside, passing olive groves and farms on your way to the village of Androusa, or Ancient Messene. Arrive at the village’s 13th-century castle, where you will meet your guide and participate in an interactive game for an introduction to the craft of making olive oil. Next, explore the grounds with your guide, taking in your ancient surroundings and the sprawling fields of olive trees. Head into the village to visit both a traditional and a modern olive mill and see the difference in production. After, complement your working knowledge of olive oil production by sampling different varieties of the product and enjoying a light meal of olive oil-based dishes before returning to your ship.

Discover Kalamata’s origins in antiquity as you meander through its streets and view its time-honored structures. Travel through Kalamata to the city’s pedestrian zone, where you will begin your walk. Stroll to the Church of Ypapanti, built in the Byzantine style. Wander its halls to see its ornate interior and marvel at the icon of Panagia Ypapanti, the Protectress of Kalamata. Next, ascend to Kalamata Castle, a 13th-century Frankish structure that sits atop a hill. Admire the sweeping views offered by this vantage point before heading to Kalograion Monastery, founded in 1796 and known for its production of fine silk scarves. Finally, visit the Archaeological Museum of Messenia to explore the area’s past, from its Bronze Age roots to the Byzantine Period. After, you may choose to continue your exploration of Kalamata independently or return to your ship by motor coach.