Why You Need to Visit Ancient Messene in Greece
Are you questioning if you should visit Ancient Messene or is already in your planning and you want to know all about it?
I visited the site last year, during springtime and it was a fantastic experience! It’s an underrated gem that will get you charmed the second you set foot in.
Ancient Messene is a remarkable city that shows the legacy of ancient Greek civilization.
In this article, you’ll find information about the history and historical significance of Ancient Messene and what you need to know when planning your visit.
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The History of Ancient Messene
The ruins of Ancient Messene are located in the southwestern Peloponnese, Greece.
The first evidence of human activity in Ancient Messene goes back to the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC.
In 369 BC, the Theban general Epaminondas ended the long Spartan occupation and founded the city of Messene, bringing back the exiled Messenians from Italy, Sicily and Cyrenaica.
The new Messenian capital was founded in the foothills of Mount Ithome, a place linked to the local political and religious history.
The city was named after the mythical queen Messene and developed into a notable political, religious and cultural centre mainly during the Hellenistic and Early Imperial years.
From the 3rd century AD, the city has been in decline and shrinking in size. However, during the Early Byzantine years (5th-7th century AD) until the beginning of the 15th century AD, Messene remains a remarkable centre in the southwestern Peloponnese, known from the written sources of the 10th century AD, and thereafter under the name ‘Vourkano”.
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The Layout of Ancient Messene
Among the most impressive structures are the grand theatre, where ancient dramas once came to life, the stadium, where athletic competitions were taking place through the ages and the agora, a bustling hub of commerce and civic life.
Historical Significance of Ancient Messene
Ancient Messene’s importance transcends time, embracing various historical epochs.
As a crucial player in Spartan history, the city stands as a symbol of the rivalry between Sparta and Athens during the Peloponnesian War era.
Ancient Messene, strategically located, played a role in Sparta’s military operations.
With the rise of the Roman Empire, Ancient Messene transitioned into a new era.
The Romans recognized the city’s strategic significance and utilized it as a regional administrative and military centre.
The Roman imprint can still be seen in architectural elements that blend seamlessly with the Greek structures.
As the centuries unfolded, the Byzantine Empire took hold, further influencing the city’s trajectory.
The history of Ancient Messene during these periods reflects the power and cultural exchange that characterized the ancient Mediterranean world.
Natural Beauty Surrounding Ancient Messene
Beyond its architectural wonders, Ancient Messene is surrounded by natural beauty.
The site is next to mountains, olive groves, and rivers contributing to a charming atmosphere.
You can do outdoor activities such as climbing up mountain Taygetos, hiking or picnicking while enjoying the views.
Plan Your Trip to Ancient Messene
Getting There
You can get to Ancient Messene from Athens by car which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes or from Kalamata which will take you around 30 minutes.
If you don’t feel like driving, you can take an organised tour from Athens to Ancient Messene.
When to Go
- Ancient Messene is open all year round (except for national holidays).
- During the summer months, avoid the midday heat as there is little shade.
- Archaeological Site & Museum: Seasonal opening times apply, open daily in the summer from 8:00-20:00.
I visited in May and the weather was perfect! The olive groves are in bloom and everything is so green as it rains more, so I definitely recommend visiting during this season.
Tickets & Duration
You can get your tickets for Ancient Messene and the tickets for the Museum of Ancient Messene together online.
Allow around 3 hours to explore the site and the museum.
Good to Know
- The site offers little shade so be sure to carry essentials such as water bottles, sunscreen, and hats to ensure a pleasant visit.
- The site is not mobility-friendly.
- In the summertime, there are theatre plays in the evenings.
- The Museum of Ancient Messene is further than the main site. It takes around 3 minutes by car and 14 minutes by foot.
- Opt for comfortable shoes suited to outdoor exploration.
- You can have your lunch or dinner in the nearby villages.
Where to Stay Nearby Ancient Messene
There are various accommodation options around Ancient Messene and the nearby city of Kalamata.
Some handpicked accommodations you can choose from are:
- Villa Evelina
- Villa Pidima
- Elaia Grove in Kalamata
Where to Eat in Ancient Messene
No journey is complete without trying the local Greek cuisine. In the vicinity of Ancient Messene, you can try some traditional cuisine.
We ate at Ithomi Taverna. The food was as good as the view of the Ancient Messene Valley (see photo above). I suggest you book a table in advance as it gets packed at lunchtime!
If you’re into cuisine, you can have an elevated experience by going on a mushroom hunt, tasting local sweets and traditional pasta together with your visit to Ancient Messene.
Other Peloponnese Tourist Attractions
There are many other beautiful sites in the Peloponnese you can visit together with Ancient Messene. Some of my favourites are the following:
From Athens: Messinia Region Guided Day Tour
Final Thoughts
Ancient Messene is such a fantastic place with a mix of culture, nature and architecture.
The well-preserved theatre, stadium, and agora provide invaluable insights into how the ancient Greeks lived. Exploring these structures allows us to know about the daily lives, customs, and rituals of the people who inhabited the city.
It is truly a hidden gem that invites you to explore the past of the area. I can’t wait for you to visit and tell me about your experience!
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