Travellers and ruins in the Spartan landscape

The painting 'At Leonidas&s Tomb' by Jan Styka captures the mystical experience of encountering ancient Spartan ghosts within the ruins, blending realism with supernatural elements. This study reveals how modern travellers—archaeologists, writers, and artists—perceive these spectral figures in contemporary times, drawing on Sparta's enduring literary legacy. The research explores the transformation of Mystras from a thriving city to a 'ghost-city' as modern Sparta was resurrected, while Mystras fell into ruin by the 20th century. It examines how tourist narratives and historical accounts depict Mystras as a monumental necropolis, emphasizing its haunting allure. The study employs qualitative analysis of literary and visual sources to uncover the interplay between history, memory, and imagination in shaping perceptions of ancient landscapes.

Matalas, P. (2017). Travellers and ruins in the Spartan landscape. Ancient Monuments and Modern Identities, 41–61. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315513454-3