The town of Gythio is often called the seaport of Sparta and is located towards the north western area of the Gulf of Laconia in the Peloponnese.

Due to its age, the city of Gythio has witnessed many interesting and critical historical events. One of the first most critical events dates from 455 BC, when Admiral Tolmides burnt most of the town during the Peloponnesian War.

Another important event in its history was when the city became the founder of the union of 24 towns. This union was known as the Eleftherolaconian towns and consisted of a group of communities that united their forces in order to fight against Sparta and keep their autonomy.

There are clear descriptions on how the town was and how it looked like during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. These descriptions include the Acropolis, the Agora and the island of Crane, the precinct of Aphrodite Migonitis, the Larysium or Komaro hill.

The island of Crane, also known as Marathonisi Island is located near Gythio and has played an important role in its past. This island was the place chosen by Paris to marry Helen of Troy.

According to its modern history the most important event was the opening of the port. This port started functioning in 1960. in what is known as the seat of the Diocese of Gytheion and Oitylo. This has had an important impact on the town.