The ancient city and vineyards of Mantineia

Mantineia was an important city in ancient Greece, and it is now mainly known for the impressive remains of its fortified enclosure, as well as the agora, the theatre and public buildings. Although the city is now in ruins, the region’s reputation for wine-making has continued from ancient times right up to the modern day.

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Mantineia was an important city in ancient Greece, and it is now mainly known for the impressive remains of its fortified enclosure, as well as the agora, the theatre and public buildings which were in the centre of the ancient city.  Fortunately for archaeologists and researchers, the traveller Pausanias visited the area around 170 AD and details the city’s history and monuments.

The ancient theatre. Built at the western end of the agora, the theatre dates from between the 5th and 4th BC. It was excavated by the French Archaeological School in the 19th century and the stage, the orchestra, and some of the lowest rows of seating came to light. It was relatively small and could hold 6,200 spectators.

Ancient Mantineia is 12 km from Tripoli. 

The vineyard and the wines of Mantineia
The region of Mantineia has been known for its wines since ancient times, and Homer described it as "multi-variety".  Pausanias, the 2nd century traveller and geographer, also described the area in detail. Although moscofilero is also planted in other regions in Greece, the variety is mainly connected to Mantineia. The grape gives white and rosé wines with fine aromas and a fruity taste.

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status was awarded to wines grown in the Mantineia area in 1971. The grapes ripen slowly and the harvest is late here as it is one of the coldest regions in Greece, with a lot of rain and snow. 

See the  Wine routes of Arcadia

Location

Find the destination on the interactive map below.