It is a fortified city, founded in 1249 by the Franks. The city experienced great prosperity during the late Byzantine period, when it was the capital of the Despotate of the Moreos. The city is well preserved and includes many important monuments, such as the castle, the Old Town, the monastery of Protatos and the church of Panagia tis Peribleptou. The castle of Mystras is one of the most impressive monuments of the city. The castle was built by the Franks and later expanded by the Byzantines. The Old Town of Mystras is a fortified area surrounded by walls. The area is full of narrow streets, traditional houses and monuments.