Tomb of Leonidas

Sparta, Greece

The Tomb of Leonidas has an impressive edifice (12.5m × 8.30 m), probably dating back to the late 5th century BCE. It was made of massive limestone and its interior was divided in two connected chambers. The eastern chamber was 3.15 meters long, had the form of a pronaos (vestibule) and was ornate with columns. Until today, the use of the edifice has not been verified.It is believed to be a cenotaph, while many researchers share the opinion that it is the temple of Karneios Apollo.

 Although there is no indication on the correlation between the temple and the legendary king of Sparta, according to local tradition and the travel writer Pausanias, the remains of Leonidas were transferred and buried there. It is because of this, that the locals believe it to be the tomb of Leonidas. Pausanias also mentions that annual games were hosted here to honor the memory of the Spartan king.

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Address

Agidos 82, Sparta, Greece
See all sites in Sparta

Details

Founded: 5th century BCE
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Greece

Rating

3.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

bluedimitris (7 months ago)
Sadly, a rather underwhelming experience for the burial site of such a famous personality who inspired generations of people through the times to nowadays..
Ginger Huge (14 months ago)
We stopped in Sparta on our way to Mystras. Sadly, there really isn't much here, I couldn't find any souvenirs, we did have lunch before going on to Mystras which is definitely worth a visit! It's amazing!
ezequiel villegas (16 months ago)
Just to be there is remarkable, the only thing is that, I believe they could have done something more appropriate around for the high importance of this tomb( it’s King Leonidas after all) there is nothing around that mark it, just a small plate and a couple of Greek flags.
Marcus Lodwick (17 months ago)
Uhhh, he deserves a bit more than a locked site set amidst a noisy street scene of kids racing on bikes, youth smoking, and old men eyeing up non locals. But then again, he may secretly like the unceremonious atmosphere.
Marlène R. (2 years ago)
Nothing to see really. Just a bunch of stones behind a fence. I would definitely not come just for this. Especially seeing there is no explanation whatsoever. You wouldn't know it is the tomb of Leonidas, it would be the same : just some random rocks in a middle of a little square.
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