Thermopylae is in the eastern part of central Greece. It is a narrow pass which provided access into the rest of Greece. The name means "Hot Gates" or "Warm Gates", a nod to the geothermic activity in the area. Up until the late 1800s, visitors to the site were known to pick up skulls and other relics right off the ground.
Why You Should Go to Thermopylae:
History fan? Movie fan? You'll enjoy seeing the site of the legendary battle between the Persians and a much smaller Greek force, which included the Spartans.
What to See at Thermopylae
There is a modern statue of King Leonidas, the Thermopylae Museum with artifacts related to the battle, and the physical location itself, though it has changed somewhat since ancient times. Where to Stay in Thermopylae:
Lamia is the nearest city, about 15 minutes away from Thermopylae itself. There are some lodgings in smaller villages as well; not all of these can be found on-line.
How to Get to Thermopylae
There are tours to Thermopylae from Athens and it can also be reached by car on the E75, a good modern road suitable for most drivers. Some private taxi services offer trips to Thermopylae - here's one option. It can also be reached by local buses from Lamia, though this may be more than the casual traveler wants to undertake.
King Leonidas fan? You'll enjoy reading about these modern investigations: The Leonidas Expeditions and poring over the maps and descriptions of the battle.
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More Quick Looks at Towns, Cities, and Islands in Greece: Cities and Towns of Greece Movie buff? Compare Prices on Movies About Thermopylae:
The 300 (2008)
Meet the Spartans (Satire)
The 300 Spartans (1962)
