Ancient Messene is considered of being amongst the most exciting and complete archaeological settlements ever discovered and one of the most beautifully situated. Little more than a lush green valley in the southwestern Peloponnese - not far away from the city of Kalamata - just 40 years ago, it now ranks as one of the most significant remains of Greek antiquity.

The city was founded in 369 BC and for many years the capital of the Messinian state. It flourished in the 4th century BC after the defeat of the Spartans by the Theban General Epaminondas, ending centuries of Spartan rule. The city was never subsequently destroyed or settled over, allowing an astonishing insight into life in ancient times.

A complex that some believe is little more than a third excavated has already revealed the remains of a theatre, agora, stadium and gymnasium, as well as an assortment of sanctuaries, temples, statues, springs and dwellings.

Nowadays Ancient Messene is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.