Messene

Ancient Messene was founded in 369 BC by Theban general Epaminondas following Sparta's defeat at the Battle of Leuctra (371 BC), as a fortified stronghold to prevent Spartan resurgence in the Peloponnese. The city was encircled by a 9-kilometre fortification wall with watchtowers and the monumental Arcadian Gate. Major excavated structures include a theater, a colonnaded agora, the Asklepieion with Corinthian porticos, and a stadium with re-erected columns. Systematic excavations since 1986 under Petros Themelis have made it one of Greece's most outstanding archaeological parks, earning the Europa Nostra Award in 2011.