Greece’s Ministry of Culture is proceeding with the restoration and maintenance of the acropolis of Pelinna, an ancient Greek city-state of Thessaly.
Pelinna, located east of the modern city of Trikala, gained particular prominence in the fourth century BCE through its alliance with Philip II of Macedon.
“Ancient Pelinna was one of the most important cities of Ancient Hestiaiotis and flourished during the late Classical and Hellenistic periods due to its steadfast pro-Macedonian policies,” Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni said.
During this time, the site of the old city was transformed into an acropolis, while the urban area expanded into the plain and was protected by strong walls.
Alexander the Great passed through Ancient Pelinna
Alexander the Great passed through Ancient Pelinna in 335 BCE on his way to invade Boeotia. Ancient sources and architectural remnants provide significant evidence of life in this city, particularly in the 4th century BCE, while many new findings are emerging as part of the ongoing project.
The acropolis, which was the original core of the city until the arrival of the Macedonians and its subsequent expansion, is built in a naturally fortified location at the top of a hill overlooking the plain.
“The restoration of the acropolis aims to preserve and promote the monument, making it accessible to the public as a safe, well-organized archaeological site that is easy to navigate and interpret for visitors,” Mendoni said.
The monument faces issues arising from both natural and human causes, including the collapse of the superstructure due to neglect and water infiltration, the dismantling of the structure caused by the removal of ancient materials for reuse in later constructions, and deliberate damage from illegal excavations.
The combination of rainwater, sloping terrain, periodic dynamic stresses, and dense vegetation has led to cracks and the dislodging of stones. Recent clearing operations uncovered over 300 architectural elements near the monument.
In the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, the city was confined to the southern slopes of the “Palaiogardiki” hill, which later became the acropolis.
Ancient Pelinna falls into obscurity
Macedonian dominance in Thessaly ended with Philip V’s defeat in 197 BCE. In 191 BCE, during the Antiochene War, the Athamanians captured Pelinna. This was followed by its conquest by the Romans, after which the city fell into obscurity.
During the Byzantine period, the settlement of “Gardikion” was established on the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna.
According to recent archaeological findings, habitation at the site continued until the early Ottoman period, after which it was permanently abandoned. From the medieval period, repairs to the fortifications and remains of a three-aisled basilica can still be observed on the acropolis.
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