Where Leonidas and the 300 became legend
This strategic pass nestled between Mount Kallidromo and the Malian Gulf was destined to become the stage for one of ancient history's most defining moments: the famous Battle of Thermopylae. Pay your respects to the warriors who became eternal symbols of heroism through a glorious, yet painful, defeat.
In 480 BC, Leonidas, King of Sparta, stood against the massive Persian army of Xerxes with just 300 Spartans, 700 Thespians, and 400 Thebans by his side. The narrow pass of Thermopylae was chosen specifically to prevent the Persian forces from maneuvering. Defeat eventually came due to the betrayal of Ephialtes who led the Persians behind the Greek lines via a secret mountain trail. Nevertheless, the warriors delayed the Persian advance so much and bolstered Greek morale with their self-sacrifice, that they contributed decisively to the naval victory at Salamis that followed. That victory repelled the Persian threat, allowing the ideals and civilization of the ancient Greeks to flourish.
The famous monument of Leonidas that stands there today was created in 1955 by the sculptor Vasos Falireas. The bronze statue of the Spartan king is flanked by marble figures personifying Evrotas River and Mount Taygetus. Although the landscape has shifted and the narrow pass is no longer visible, the field of this historic clash stretches out all around you. Kolonos Hill, located directly opposite, is believed to be the location of the final stand, where the fallen were buried.
A further reason to stop here is the modern and interactive Historical Information Center for Thermopylae, which recounts the events of the Persian Wars and their global significance. Everything you cannot see in the area is brought to life through videos, impressive 3D virtual reality screenings, and interactive touchscreens. Draw inspiration from the bravery of the ancient Greeks on a journey 2,500 years into the past.
In 480 BC, Leonidas, King of Sparta, stood against the massive Persian army of Xerxes with just 300 Spartans, 700 Thespians, and 400 Thebans by his side. The narrow pass of Thermopylae was chosen specifically to prevent the Persian forces from maneuvering. Defeat eventually came due to the betrayal of Ephialtes who led the Persians behind the Greek lines via a secret mountain trail. Nevertheless, the warriors delayed the Persian advance so much and bolstered Greek morale with their self-sacrifice, that they contributed decisively to the naval victory at Salamis that followed. That victory repelled the Persian threat, allowing the ideals and civilization of the ancient Greeks to flourish.
The famous monument of Leonidas that stands there today was created in 1955 by the sculptor Vasos Falireas. The bronze statue of the Spartan king is flanked by marble figures personifying Evrotas River and Mount Taygetus. Although the landscape has shifted and the narrow pass is no longer visible, the field of this historic clash stretches out all around you. Kolonos Hill, located directly opposite, is believed to be the location of the final stand, where the fallen were buried.
A further reason to stop here is the modern and interactive Historical Information Center for Thermopylae, which recounts the events of the Persian Wars and their global significance. Everything you cannot see in the area is brought to life through videos, impressive 3D virtual reality screenings, and interactive touchscreens. Draw inspiration from the bravery of the ancient Greeks on a journey 2,500 years into the past.
