Xirokampi

Xirokampi, one of the most imposing and historic traditional settlements in Laconia, is a large, vibrant central village within the Municipality of Sparta; situated on the eastern foothills of Mount Taygetos at an altitude of 242 meters, it rightly serves as the "gateway" to central and southern Taygetos, thanks to its strategic location and its rich natural and historical heritage. A landmark of the area is the unique-on-a-global-scale Hellenistic Bridge of Xirokambi—spanning the Rasinas River—a single-arch stone bridge dating to the late Hellenistic period (100–30 BC) that is considered the oldest bridge still in use in Europe; also notable are the recent, spectacular excavations on the adjacent hill of Agios Vasileios, which brought to light a monumental Mycenaean palace containing valuable Linear B tablets and bronze swords. Today, Xirokampi captivates visitors with its remarkable 19th-century traditional architecture, well-preserved stone houses, the Byzantine churches of Saint George and Saint Nikon, an open-air amphitheater, and a beautiful, plane-tree-shaded central square bustling with life, featuring coffee houses and tavernas. Its signature landmark is the exquisite Anakolos Gorge, which begins right behind the village and serves as a protected wetland habitat With its Natura 2000 status—featuring running waters and impressive rock formations—and its proximity to the ancient Olive Tree of Faris and the historic monasteries of Zerbitsa and Gola, the settlement is a premier destination for enthusiasts of history, nature, and alternative activities such as trekking and mountaineering up to the summit of Mount Taygetos.