A historic municipality, it has been called Therapnes since 1869, in reference to the ancient Therapne which stood on the left bank of the Eurotas river. Here, to the east of Sparta, are the Mycenaean villa and temple of Helen and Menelaos. Archaeological finds from the Mycenaean tombs around Melathria are today in the Arcaeological Museum of Sparta.

The residents of the region live mainly from olive cultivation. In the plains they cultivate pulse and cereals.There is quite extensive organic cultivation of olive oil and many residents are involved in husbandry and organic stockbreeding. Don't forget to try the local cheese called Graviera.

At Chrysafa the former capital of the Municipality you can find many important churches to visit with the most important being Our Lady Chrysafitissa built in 1293, with exeptional wall-paintings and a tower. The village of Zoupena (renamed Ag. Anargiroi) was a centre of resistance in the second world war and was burnt by the Germans.

The mountain villages of the area are considered exceptional summer resorts with many springs and plane trees, hostels and tavernas. They are also used as bases for excursions on Mt. Parmon.