Restoration and maintenance works are currently underway at the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna, located approximately 16 kilometers east of Trikala in Greece. The Ministry of Culture of Greece, through the Trikala Antiquities Ephorate, is spearheading these efforts, focusing on the structural material of the western wing and the northwestern tower. The project is funded by the Thessaly Regional Operational Program, according to Newsbomb.
These restoration works are part of a concerted effort to protect and promote the archaeological site of Ancient Pelinna. The interventions aim to rescue and enhance the monument, making it accessible to the public as a safe and organized archaeological site. The goal is to create an environment that is easily navigable and informative for visitors.
"The ancient sources, as well as the architectural remains, provide significant testimonies about the life of this city, mainly in the 4th century BC, while many new data are being revealed within the framework of the project," said Lina Mendoni, according to Proto Thema.
Ancient Pelinna was one of the most important cities of Ancient Estiaotis. It flourished during the late Classical and Hellenistic periods due to its stable pro-Macedonian policy. "Pelinna flourished during the later classical and Hellenistic periods due to its stable pro-Macedonian policy," stated Mendoni, as reported by Proto Thema.
The acropolis, which served as the original core of the city until the arrival of the Macedonians and the subsequent expansion, is built in a naturally fortified position atop a hill overlooking the plain. On the northern side, a natural steep depression—likely formed by the collapse of an underground cave ceiling—renders the position impregnable from that direction. The walls of the acropolis form a trapezoidal enclosure on the other three sides.
"During this period, the site of the old city was transformed into an acropolis, and the city expanded into the plain and was protected by a strong wall," added Mendoni, according to Newsbomb.
"Alexander the Great passed through Ancient Pelinna in 335 BC to invade Boeotia," Mendoni noted.
The monument has faced numerous challenges over the centuries due to both natural and human factors. Long-term abandonment and the inflow of water have led to the collapse of the superstructure. There has been deconstruction due to the removal of ancient materials for use in newer constructions, as well as deliberate destruction from illegal excavations. Rainfall, combined with the sloping terrain, occasional dynamic loads, and dense vegetation, has resulted in cracks and the dislodging of stones.
Recent excavations have revealed over 300 architectural members near the monument, providing new insights into the site's historical significance.
In the 6th and 5th centuries BC, the city was confined to the southern slopes of the hill known as "Palaio-gardiki," which later became the acropolis. The dominance of the Macedonians in Thessaly concluded with the defeat of Philip V in 197 BC. In 191 BC, during the Antiochean War, the Athamanes captured Pelinna. Subsequently, the city fell to the Romans and gradually declined into obscurity.
During the Byzantine period, a settlement called "Gardikion" was established on the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna. Excavation data indicate that habitation in the area persisted until the early years of Ottoman rule, after which the site was definitively abandoned. From the medieval period, evidence of fortification repairs can be seen on the acropolis, along with the remains of a three-aisled basilica.
This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq