Sparta is featured in Greek mythology as the birthplace of Helen, the demigoddess daughter of Zeus and Leda.

Much of the Spartan lifestyle revolved around military training and action. Each male child was expected to become a soldier.

During the long Greco-Persian War, Athens and Sparta teamed up to push back Persian invaders.

The Spartans displayed their bravery and resolve in the Battle of Thermo pylae in 480 B.C..

Led by King Leonidas, 300 Spartan soldiers held their own at Thermo pylae against a large Persian force led by Xerxes.

Outnumbered 50 to one, all 300 Spartans fought to their deaths. Even though Persia won the battle, they lost the war, and the Spartan sacrifice is considered one of history's great moments of valor.

The city of Sparta was destroyed by the Visigoths in 396. Excavations have uncovered public buildings and temples on the site.

Many Spartan amphora vases painted with black figures have been recovered.