Three kilometres outside modern-day Megalopoli, in close proximity to the road leading from Megalopoli to Karytaina, lies the archaeological site of Megali Polis, one of the most magnificent cities of ancient Arcadia which, despite this, did not manage to survive for more than two centuries. The archaeological site contains ruins of the ancient agora, the Thersileion parliament hall on the north side, with a capacity of approximately 16,000, as well as the largest and oldest theatre of Ancient Greece, situated across from the agora and connected to it by a bridge.
The theatre was constructed by Polycleitus of Argos, circa 370 BC, and had a capacity of around 20,000 spectators and perfect acoustics. The reason its proportions were so large was that, in addition to theatre, it also hosted meetings of a political nature between the 40 Arcadian cities that comprised Megalopolis, which could be attended by any interested citizen. A wooden stage with wheels was used for plays, which was kept at the scenotheque (the stage store) and would be pulled out to the theatre whenever needed. The theatre’s peak is placed in the 3rd century BC, and coincides with the peak period of Megali Polis. The theatre first started to come to light in the late 19th century. The British Institute started excavations in the region in 1890-1891, which revealed the proscenium, orchestra, part of the proedria, the analemma walls of the parodoi, the foundations of the scenotheque and the lower stone seats. Research is still underway at the Thersileion parliament hall site, and new results are expected. The ancient theatre of Megalopolis is part of a European programme financed by UNESCO. The goal is to carry out the necessary restoration works that will further highlight the importance of this ancient monument.
Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr
Mt. Parnonas
Parnonas also known as “Malevos” is the mountain range which divides two large counties of Peloponnese, Arcadia and Laconia. The highest peak of Parnonas is called “Megali Tourla” also known as “Kronio” and has 1936 meters altitude. The mountain ends in Laconia at the Cape Maleas, south of Peloponnese. The natural beauty of the mountain and the traditional villages attract many travelers... read more
Alfeios
Peloponnese’s longest river (111km long) has its source in Arcadia and its mouth in the Prefecture of Elis. According to mythology, Apheus was one of the river-gods of antiquity, worshiped mainly in the regions of Arcadia, Elis and Messinia. Son of Oceanus and Tethys, he killed his brother Cercaphus and haunted by the Erinyes, he leapt into the river which was later named after him. Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr [vc_row][vc_column][ivi_nbcaj... read more
The Gorge of Lepida
The gorge of Lepida is one of the numerous, impressive natural formations of Mount Parnon, which stands between the prefectures of Arcadia and Laconia. Its length is 500 metres and it is relatively flat. Two hours are required to cross it, during which visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the unique natural beauty of the landscape, which is filled with rich flora and fauna and boasts two gorgeous... read more
Mountain biking
A great way to discover a new place is actually on two wheels. Arcadia, with its stunning nature, does offer visitors this unique opportunity. The changes in the landscape, the lush vegetation, the dense forests and the hidden traditional settlements are only few of the natural attractions a visitor can enjoy with just a bike and the desire for exploration. Around the city of Tripolis, as well as in the Arcadian... read more
The Ski Center in Mainalo
The Mainalo ski center is situated in the location Ostrakina of the homonymous mountain, approximately 30 kilometres from Tripolis and 162 kilometres from Athens. The roads and consequently the access to the ski centre are easy, making it a very popular destination. It isn’t one of the biggest ski centres; however, it is ideal for families with children, since the mountain is not steep and is perfect... read more
The Monastery of Eloni and the Gorge of Leonidio
The Monastery of Eloni is a pretty old convent in the prefecture of Arcadia, built in the steep slope of Mount Parnon, at an altitude of 650 metres and about 17 kilometres from the town of Leonidio. Due to its exceptional natural beauty, the area around the monastery has been declared as a protected zone and it’s included in the European Network Natura 2000 under the code GR2520005. It has a long... read more
