"This book, illustrated in colour throughout, offers a concise presentation of the archaeological site of Ancient Messene, in the Greek Peloponnese, written by its excavator and head of the restoration program, and incorporating the latest results of archaeological research. Guided by the book's informative texts, pictures and drawings, the visitor to the site can take in the history of the city, walk around its monumental fortifications and explore the Theatre, the Agora and its sanctuaries, the impressive Stadium with its Palaestra, as well as investigate the area of the funerary monuments. Ancient Messene, in its capacity as a functioning archaeological and ecological park, has acquired its own unique dynamic and independent character. This is because the potential offered by the majestic remains of an entire ancient city, in combination with the controlled building activity in the surrounding modern settlements, has been substantially realized. In addition, the long-term investments in time and effort by all those who worked at the site since 1986 have paid dividends. English language edition"