A Mountain Village Rich in History and Natural Beauty
Anavryti is a small mountain village on the slopes of Mount Taygetus, near Sparta and Mystras in Greece’s Laconia region. Its name, meaning “ascent,” reflects its elevated position and the steep paths leading there. Today it belongs administratively to the municipal unit of Mystras, municipality of Sparta.
Historically, Anavryti developed as a shepherding and agricultural settlement. Its mountainous location gave it a degree of isolation, which helped preserve many traditional customs and ways of life. In the 20th century the village’s population declined sharply as residents moved to cities or abroad. The road to Anavryti, first built largely with villagers’ labor and diaspora support in the mid-20th century, connected it more directly to the valley below.
According to local tradition, some of Anavryti’s families descend from Jews who found refuge here after leaving nearby Mystras. This story is part of the village’s oral history, though primary archival evidence is limited. Similarly, Anavryti is said to have sheltered people during turbulent times, including the Greek War of Independence and World War II, but specific documented events are scarce.
Today, traces of these histories are subtle, but local memory keeps them alive. Anavryti is now a tranquil retreat known for its natural beauty and its role as a gateway to hiking paths—including the European long-distance trail E4—across Mount Taygetus. Eco-tourism and small guesthouses support its modest revival, ensuring Anavryti remains a hidden gem of the Laconia region near Sparta and Mystras.
Image: Wikipedia – “Anavriti” by macrolepis
