Cenotaph of Leonidas — Attraction in Municipality of Sparta

A building of uncertain purpose that has been misinterpreted as the tomb built to host the remains of the great king, fallen gloriously in battle in Thermopylae. In truth, the building was more likely a temple. Visit it if you feel inclined to honor the great hero as he deserves. It doesn't really matter if this is the actual site of the final resting place of his remains. He deserves it nonetheless. If you need a spectacular, breathtaking monument to back up your visit with a great set of photos, you have not understood a thing about the Spartans, and...

The site has the form of a temple, probably dating back to the late 5th century BC. It was made of massive limestone blocks and was divided in two connecting chambers. Many researchers share the opinion that it is the temple of Karneios Apollo. However, according to local tradition and the travel writer Pausanias, the remains of Leonidas were transferred and buried there. Either way, the site deserves to be preserved better and a plaque should be added explaining the...

Truly a waste of time if you plan on visiting the so-called “ Cenotaph “ of Leonidas.

The site is permanently closed & not accessible to visitors bar viewing it from the outside. There are no information boards for visitors to read about the history of the site, when it was built etc..

The local municipality should hang their heads in shame for their inaction over many years in making this monument...