Leontari is situated on the base of the arcadian part of Mount Taigetos (540m altitude), 11 km from the town of Megalopoli. It is a significant traditional settlement. Archeological findings suggest that ancient Leuctra (7th century B.C. – 4th century A.D.) was situated where Leontari is today. Its most glorious days where during the Byzantine times, as it was a thriving Greek community which succeeded the franciscan settlement of Veligosti. As time went by, it became the 2nd most important town of the Despotate of Mystras, and during some periods around 1391, it laid claim to being its head town, due to its castle’s strategic position.
According to prevailing opinion, the village’s name is due to a significant social and economic figure named Leontaris or Leontarios, who lived in the region in the times of Alexios Komninos the 1st, between 1081 and 1118. Local tradition however says a different story: the byzantine castle of Leontari was said to appear like a sitting lion from a distance. This opinion is strengthened by the fact that local people remember the engraved representation of a lion which was found in the area in ancient times.
In the post-byzantine period, it becomes the centre of conflict between Venetians and Turks, since the castle was of strategic importance to both. During one time period, it houses the headquarters of the Turkish head (pasas) of the Peloponnese. Its significance during the Turkish occupation is such, that it was considered one of the famous castles of the Peloponnese (this group includes the castles of Mystras, Nafplio, Patras, Navarino, Mehtoni and Koroni).
Theodoros Kolokotronis (a Greek general and one of the leaders of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire) was ordained “Kapos”, in Leontari, at the age of 16. Shortly after, he fled to the mountains, where he joined the ranks of a Peloponnesian guerrilla band. He often referred to Leontari in his writings. Since the region of Leontari was the grazing ground for the surrounding mountainous regions, it was named Livadia (thus the well known folk song of the “40 palikaria from Livadia”). During the War of Independence, Leontari was the base for several operations led by Kolokotronis, Nikitaras and Papaflessas.
Leontaris’ geographical position, climate, byzantine churches, castle, small alleys as well as two-storey stone archontika (manor houses) are some of the characteristics which give it, its special character and beauty.
The guest will enjoy visiting:
1. The church of the Apostles in the main town square, which was recently restored by the Ministry of Culture. It is a masterpiece of 14th century religious architecture and is considered one of the most important religious monuments of the Peloponnese. Tradition has it, that Constantine XI Palaiologos (the last reigning Byzantine Emperor) received the news that he was to become emperor while he was in Leontari (1448 A.D.). He was sworn into his new role in the church of the Apostles, and then travelled to Mystras, where he was crowned in 1449 A.D.
2. The castle has 3 towered curtains. The “Loubardoutroupa” can still be seen on the northeastern corner where the walls are 4,60m high. At the top of the castle is the chapel of Profitis Ilias and at the base of the castle is the chapel of Taxiarhis which most probably was part of a monastery.
3. Notice the water springs in the main square and the castle as well as the several wells throughout Leontari. Walk along the alley ways and enjoy the view from different parts of the village.
Old period 1869-2005
