M. Koromila,Mistras. First program.
[Audio-Visual]

From the Comnenians to the Villehardouins. The capture of Morea and the creation of the Principality of Achaea.

First in a series of five hour-long radio broadcasts about the foundation of the fortified city of Mistra and its historical development from the 13th until the 20th century when it was converted into an archaeological site.

---

This program includes an introduction to the wider Peloponnesian setting, its geomorphology, flora and fauna, and especially springtime in area of the Eurotas Valley and Mt Taygetos, and a brief discussion of economic and social relations in the Peloponnese during the Middle Byzantine and Early Late Byzantine (Komnenian) periods. After the first 26 minutes, the program turns briefly to the Fourth Crusade and the capture of Constantinople (1204). The Franks came eventually to occupy all of Morea and in 1210 took control of Lakonia, which was held by the Villehardouin family. At 50 min., the death of Geoffrey of Villehardouin in 1218 is mentioned. Reference to the feudal hierarchy. Musical accompaniment.

Sound technician Spyros Kavakopoulos

---

Digital processing for APAN Marina Kokori