Located near the center of the Peloponnese, Megalopolis served as a vital member of the region’s historical Arcadian and Achaean Leagues over its brief two-century existence.
However, despite its influential roles and impressive size worthy of its name (Megalopolis translating to “Large City”), the modern archaeological site is considerably much less popular than the ancient ruins found in nearby Corinth, Epidaurus, or Mycenae.
Still, thanks to its relative obscurity, the site itself has managed to remain largely untouched as one of the few unattended archaeological sites in the country, resulting in an immersive visit amidst the ancient ruins.
Whether you are visiting along this 2-week Peloponnese road trip or planning an excursion from a nearby tourist center, this is everything you need to know for a fun and informative visit to ancient Megalopolis, Greece.
Visit Ancient Megalopolis: A Brief Guide
Ancient Megalopolis Opening Hours:
Summer ( June 1 – Oct. 31): 08:00 – 15:30
Winter ( Nov. 1 – May 31): 08:30 – 15:00
Ancient Megalopolis Ticket Prices: Free Entrance
Ancient Megalopolis Address: Megalopoli 222 00, Greece
Nearby Hotels: Β&B Travellers Marathousa | Salesi
Top Sights: Ancient Theatre | Ancient Agora | Thersilion Boulterion
Archaeological Site of Megalopolis Map
Ancient Megalopolis: A Brief History
Like the nearby Messene and Mantinea, ancient Megalopolis owes its establishment to the General Epaminondas of Thebes and the battle of Leuctra, which ultimately saw the liberation of the area from Spartan control in 371 BCE.
Following their victory, the Thebans and their allied Boeotians established the Arcadian League and constructed the three fortified cities in defensible positions to curb the future growth of Spartan influence.
As the largest of these new cities, Megalopolis became the seat of the Arcadian League and attracted thousands of settlers from the surrounding villages. Megalopolis quickly grew and, within a decade, included an Agora, the Sanctuary of Lykaios Zeus, and a garrison of over 1000 men.
As the administrative center of the Arcadian League, Megalopolis experienced frequent Spartan assaults but was ultimately victorious over the aggressors on several occasions over the following decades.
The consistent conflict with the Spartans resulted in Megalopolis allying with Philip II of Macedon in the late 4th century, which continued into the reign of Alexander the Great.
Megalopolis-Macedonian relations deteriorated following the death of Alexander, with his successors, Antipatros and Polisperchodas, leading an invasion of the Big City.
The 3rd century saw a sequence of invasions against Megalopolis from both the Macedonians and the Spartans. Megalopolis managed to fend off the attacks on all occasions, and the city entered a brief period of peace upon its joining the Achaean League in 234 BCE, which resulted in a peace treaty with Sparta.
Unfortunately, this only lasted for about 11 years, with the Spartans breaking the peace treaty in 223 BCE and leading an invasion of Megalopolis, which resulted in the destruction of the once-great city.
Unable to build to its former glory, Megalopolis is largely left in ruins, which visitors continue to explore to this day.
Things to See and Do in Ancient Megalopolis
1.Ancient Theatre
Located along the southern shores of the Elissonas River, the ancient theatre of Megalopolis is the jewel of the archaeological site and is said to have been the largest theatre in ancient Greece, boasting a capacity of 20,000 people.
Built shortly after the city’s establishment, the theatre hosted entertainment and political debates throughout the city’s two-century existence, starting from the construction’s completion in 370 BCE.
Today, only the lower stone bleachers and the nearby Thersilion Bouleuterion remain of the once glorious theatre.
2. Ancient Agora
Located across the river from the ancient theatre, the ancient agora of Megalopolis served as the social and commercial hub of the ancient city. Here is where visitors will find the ruins of the Sanctuaries of Lykaios Zeus, the Sanctuary of Zeus Soter, the temple of Akakisios Hermes, and several federal buildings.
3. Archaeological Museum in Megalopolis
While not a particularly large museum, the Archaeological Museum of Megalopolis in the modern town houses some important relics from the ancient city. It is worth a stop to explore the statues and artifacts of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
How to Get to Ancient Megalopolis?
The easiest way to get to Megalopolis is to drive. In fact, most tour providers don’t even offer excursions to the archaeological site, making it difficult to access via public transport. Check out the links below for directions from several nearby tourist hotspots.
Driving to Ancient Megalopolis from Athens
Driving to Ancient Megalopolis from Tripoli
Driving to Ancient Megalopolis from Gythio
Driving to Ancient Megalopolis from Kalamata
Where to Stay Near Ancient Megalopolis?
As there isn’t much else in the area in terms of tourist attractions except the archaeological site, I suggest staying in one of the nearby tourist hubs of Tripoli or Gythio and visiting the ancient site on a day trip.
However, if you do plan on spending your holiday in the area, Β&B Travellers Marathousa and Salesi offer quiet accommodation in the authentic countryside and are only a short walk from the archaeological site.
FAQS About Ancient Megalopolis, Greece
Where is Ancient Megalopolis?
Located about 2 hours from Athens, the Archaeological site of Megalopolis occupies a central location within the Peloponnese, along the River Elisson in southern Greece.
How Much is Admission at Ancient Megalopolis?
As an unattended archaeological site, ancient Megalopolis is entirely free to access, offering a cost-effective exploration of ancient ruins and historical places in Greece.
How Long Do I Need to Explore Ancient Megalopolis?
The ruins of ancient Megalopolis are small enough to be explored within an hour, making for a great stopping point along this 2-week Peloponnese road trip. However, if you are looking for a deeper immersion into the site, plan to spend two hours.
What Are Some Other Archaeological Sites Near Ancient Megalopolis?
Are you a history buff looking for some more historical sites near Megalopolis? Check out these archaeological parks and ancient ruins.
- Tegea Archaeological Park (40 km)
- Archaeological Site of Ancient Messene (52.3 km)
- Ancient Mantineia Archaeological Park (53.3 km)
- Archaeological site of Olympia (112 km)
