The region of Sparta has been inhabited already for 4000 years. King Otto of Greece founded modern Sparta in 1836. He was the first Greek king after independence. It is impossible to miss the statue of Leonidas, whom we will meet again at the Thermopylae. His heroic fight represents the military strength of ancient Sparta. […]
From Preveza to Missolonghi
After a short stay at Nikopolis, we reach Preveza. Preveza The port town lies opposite the Aktio peninsula, at the exit of the Ambracian Gulf. This bay was the location of the historically significant naval battle between Octavian, later Emperor Augustus, and Marcus Aurelius and his beloved Cleopatra. Octavian defeated Marcus Aurelius, who then fled […]
From Kassandra to Central Macedonia
After visiting Olynth, we drive to Kassandra. We cross the Canal of Potidea that intersects the land at the narrowest point of Kassandra and reach Nea Fokea. Nea Fokea We make a short stop in the harbor of Nea Fokea. A Byzantine tower, presumably built in 1407, towers above the port. Here was the center […]
Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand
The Ulugh Beg Observatory in Samarkand is the visible proof of how far Central Asia was scientifically ahead of the Western world. Ulugh Beg was one of the grandsons of the founder of the Timurid Empire Amir Temur. His father Shah-Ruchs prevailed in the riots around the throne succession and made Herat the new capital. […]
A day trip to Shahrisabz
Samarkand travelers should not miss a day trip to Shahrisabz. For the approx. 85 km you need approx. 1.5 hours by car. From Samarkand to Shahrisabz In the south of Samarkand are the foothills of the Zarafshan Range. On the way to Shahrisabz, we cross the mountain range on a pass road, which leads to […]
Visiting the Burana Tower
The Burana Tower is located about 12 km southwest of the city of Tokmok in the valley of the Chu river. The tower was built in the 10th or 11th century. Its original height was 40 meters. Today, its height is 21.7m. The upper part was destroyed by an earthquake. Upon arrival on the site, […]
