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Amphipolis: An Ancient Macedonian City

Discover Amphipolis, an ancient city with the largest tomb in Greece, the iconic Lion, and a rich Macedonian history to explore.

Explore the ruins of Amphipolis, an important ancient Greek city in Macedonia. Founded by the Athenians in 437 BCE, it later became a key center under Alexander the Great. Discover the Lion of Amphipolis, the Kasta Tomb, and the Archaeological Museum, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

A brief summary to Amphipolis

  • Amphipolis, GR

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and light hiking around the archaeological sites.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum to see artifacts and learn about the history of Amphipolis.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Philippi and Kavala for a broader historical experience.
  • Check the opening hours of the sites and museum, as they vary between summer and winter.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Amphipolis is approximately 70 kilometers northeast of Thessaloniki. Take the Egnatia Odos highway. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. Parking is available near the archaeological site and museum.

  • Public Transport

    From Thessaloniki, take a bus to Drama and then another bus to Amfípoli. The total journey takes around 4 hours. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A one way ticket from Thessaloniki to Drama is approximately €12.

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Discover more about Amphipolis

Amphipolis, located in the Serres region of Northern Greece, is an ancient city with a rich and complex history. Founded in 437 BCE by the Athenians, it was strategically positioned on the banks of the Strymon River, serving as a vital link between the Aegean Sea and Thrace. The city's name reflects its geography, encircled by the Strymon, creating a natural amphitheater. Amphipolis was a significant power base for the Athenians in Thrace, making it a target for their Spartan rivals. The city was captured by the Spartans in 424 BC, and later, both the Athenian general Cleon and the Spartan general Brasidas lost their lives in battle here in 422 BC. Under Philip II and Alexander the Great, Amphipolis became a crucial military and economic hub, playing a key role in Alexander's campaigns. Key sites include the Lion of Amphipolis, a massive marble sculpture believed to mark the tomb of a prominent individual. The Kasta Tomb, the largest burial mound in Greece, dates back to the 4th century BCE and suggests the burial of a significant figure from the Macedonian kingdom. The Archaeological Museum of Amphipolis displays artifacts from the city and its surroundings, offering insights into its history from prehistoric to Byzantine times. Visitors can also explore the remains of the ancient city walls, the ancient theater, and the acropolis. Today, Amphipolis is a major archaeological site, offering a glimpse into ancient Greek civilization and the Macedonian Empire.

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