Mystras was constructed during the early 13th century as a result of the Fourth Crusade, which concluded with the Crusaders' sacking of Constantinople. Located in southern Greece's Laconia region, Mystras was inhabited by Greeks until the Turks occupied the city during the mid-19th century. This medieval city features ruins of Byzantine-era churches, such as the St. Demetrios basilica and Monastery of Our Lady Pantanassa, and the Palace of the Mystras Despots, an L-shaped structure that was built from the 1200s to the 1400s. The city of Mystras was deemed a World Heritage Site in 1989.
In Ancient Greek mythology, the island of Delos was the birthplace of the sun god, Apollo, and this legend resulted in Delos' becoming an important Mediterranean trading port. Delos maintained its status as a busy seaport from the third millennium B.C. until 325 A.D. However, stone ruins are all that remain in present-day Delos. The island of Delos is accessible by a 30-minute boat ride from the coastal city of Mykonos. Delos was named a World Heritage Site in 1990.
One of the most iconic attractions of Greece is the Acropolis plateau in Athens. This area was named as a World Heritage Site in 1987, and features attractions such as the Parthenon and the Athena Nike temples. Both temples were erected in honor of Athena, goddess of love, and were used as places of worship and treasuries. The Parthenon and Athena Nike temples were built in celebration of Alexander the Great's victories over Persia during the fourth century B.C. The structures on the Acropolis have been under constant renovation since the 1970s for preservation reasons, and are not open to the public during reconstruction periods.
Situated in the heart of the Arcadian Mountains, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius was built in the fifth century B.C. This temple was dedicated to the god, Apollo, and was sought by pilgrims who desired healing for themselves or family members. Tourists usually come to this monument during the summer to avoid the frigid winter temperatures in the mountains. Much like the Acropolis structures, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius is under constant renovation to avoid destruction from the inclement weather in the surrounding mountains. Tourists are allowed to view the outside columns, but during renovation periods, the temple's inner sanctuary is off limits. The temple was named a World Heritage Site in 1986.
