In the 15th century, the famous Neoplatonist philosopher Georgios Gemistos Plethon settled in Mystras, where he managed to arouse the interest of the West for his interpretation of Platonic philosophy and the study of ancient Greek texts.
Apart from being an important intellectual center, Mystras was also a financial hotspot. This was in large part due to the four urban monasteries which owned large stretches of land in the area, mainly producing wool and silk.
The so-called “Helladic” school of Byzantine architecture, as well as the architecture of Constantinople, projected great influence on the distinct architecture of Mystras.
This is evident from the elaborate spatial planning organization, and the complex urban planning of the town, which included palaces, residences and mansions, churches and monasteries.
Furthermore, the paintings of the churches and monasteries, such as the monastery of Brontochion and of Christos Zoodotes, deeply reflect the high quality and the eclecticism of the art of Constantinople.