Sparta

Half Day

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sparta

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Sparta is in the centre of the Lakonian prefecture in the Peloponnese and is one of the most famous towns in world history. Home to the Spartans, it rivalled Athens throughout ancient times only to fall into ruin. Little remains of Ancient Sparta, and the modern town, rebuilt in the 1830s in the familiar grid formation do not do justice to the town’s reputation.

Ancient Sparta was home to one of the most fearsome armies the world has known, and the city was very well known for its oppressive constitution. The modern term ‘spartan’ meaning devoid of luxuries comes from knowledge of this strict and totalitarian society. Volumes were written by the great writers of Greece on Spartan culture. Thucydides who said of Sparta:

If the city of Sparta were destroyed, and only its temples and the foundations of its buildings left, remote posterity would greatly doubt whether their power were ever equal to their renown.

Modern Spartans may have the laconic humour that gains its reputation from the region, but there is nothing to fear from the area. In the prefecture, the ancient and archaeological sites can keep enthusiasts occupied for days. The ancient theatre and the acropolis on the outskirts of the town are a fascinating as a glimpse of how Sparta used to be. The most important archaeological site is the Sanctury of Artemis Orthia, found on the road to Tripolis, another important historical site.

Sparta is a good base for exploring the Laconian prefecture. Close to Mystras and in the shadow of Mount Taygetos, Sparta has some of Greece’s more spectacular mountain scenery. Combined with the historical and archaeological aspects of the region, Sparta has much to offer the modern traveller.

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Trip of a Lifetime

Anthony worked very closely with us to design a custom tour that was best suited to our particular needs and wants for our trip. His knowledge and expertise helped steer us to the best sites and experiences which was invaluable to exceeding our highest expectations. The selection of first class hotels, the pick up arrangements which were performed like clockwork, the knowledgeble and courteous guides all contributed to our total enjoyment.
Further we were kept informed by the guides of any advance arrangements all during the trip which as a retired business executive who values good communication greatly added to our pleasure and relaxation.
With respect to hotels, which were all great, the hotel in Santorini high up on the hillside with spectacular views of the harbor and sites was so breathtaking we were all blown away by it's unique character and beauty.
We would heartily recommend Antelope Travel, and in particular Anthony Alagiah, especially for their travels to Greece and also Turkey. It was a trip of a lifetime.

Written July 2, 2023

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Trip of a Lifetime!

We had a wonderful family trip to Athens and Santorini. We could not have done it without the expertise of our travel agent Anthony Alagiah and the fantastic tour guides and drivers arranged through Anthony. He spoke to us months before our trip to find out exactly what we wanted. He sent us spot on suggesstions for tours and hotels. In Athens we were met by a great driver, Yianis, who was our driver for our time in Athens. He was extremely friendly and welcoming and we felt confortable travelling through Athens with him behind the wheel! The tours we did included the Walking Food Tour in Athens (highly recommend), 3 island cruise, private tours of Delphi, Cape Sounion and the Acroplis. Our hotel in Athens, the Athens Lodge, was centrally located, very clean, had a great breakfast and very friendly staff! In Santorini we were met by a welcoming tour guide and driver and our hotel (Hotel Santorini) was stunning! We did two tours in Santorini, the catamaran sunset cruise and the 5 hour hike through Santorini. The catamaran sunset cruise had delicious food, great saling and a brethtaking sunset! The hike was probably the best tour we took as we saw so much of Santorini, with lots of breaks for water and snacks. We couldn't have had a more remarkable, perfect family vacation! We highly recommend Anthony and Antelope Travel because their service made our vacation the trip of a lifetime!

Written July 30, 2023

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