Sparta was a city that was a contemporary of ancient Athens. At one point, Sparta conquered Athens. (PROSE: The Brain of Socrates)
Sparta and Athens were at war for many years during the 5th century. Their conflict ended in 421 BC. (AUDIO: The Oracle of Delphi, Mask of Tragedy) However, they were at war again by 410 BC. (COMIC: The Chains of Olympus)
Women in Sparta were trained to be warriors. (PROSE: The Brain of Socrates; AUDIO: Mask of Tragedy) When visiting Anaximander's home in Athens, the Fourth Doctor introduced Leela as his wife from Sparta. (PROSE: The Brain of Socrates)