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Lion of Amphipolis: A Majestic Guardian

Majestic 4th-century BC marble sculpture near Amphipolis, Greece, honoring a general of Alexander the Great and a symbol of Macedonian power.

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The Lion of Amphipolis is a 4th-century BC marble sculpture standing near the ancient city of Amphipolis in Macedonia, Greece. This imposing monument, possibly erected in honor of Laomedon, a general of Alexander the Great, has become a symbol of the region, drawing visitors to admire its artistry and historical significance.

A brief summary to Lion of Amphipolis

  • Amfipoli, 620 52, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the archaeological site includes uneven terrain.
  • Explore the surrounding archaeological remains for a deeper understanding of the area's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Amphipolis town, the Lion is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head south, following signs for the Lion of Amphipolis. The route is straightforward and well-marked. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop is in Amphipolis village. From the bus stop, follow the main road south towards the Lion. The walk from the bus stop to the Lion is about 15 minutes. Bus fares vary depending on the origin, but a local trip within the Serres region typically costs around €2-€5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in the nearby towns of Amphipolis and Asprovalta. A taxi ride from Asprovalta to the Lion of Amphipolis typically costs between €15-€25, depending on traffic and the time of day.

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Discover more about Lion of Amphipolis

The Lion of Amphipolis, a 4th-century BC tomb sculpture, stands as a powerful symbol of ancient Macedonia. Located near the Strymon River, about 1 km outside the south gate of the ancient city, this over 8-meter-tall marble lion captivates visitors with its grandeur and historical enigma. Originally constructed in the 4th century BC, the Lion of Amphipolis may have been erected to honor Laomedon of Mytilene, an important general of Alexander the Great. The statue's craftsmanship reflects the artistic excellence and political might of its era. Although in a seated position, the lion is larger and bulkier than the one erected at Chaeronea, with a height of more than 4 meters in its main body. Taking into account the base, it is taller than 8 m. The head has a width of 2 m. The monument's discovery is intertwined with the modern history of Greek Macedonia. The first parts were found by Greek soldiers during the First Balkan War in 1912–13 when they drained the Strymonas river bed to build a modern bridge. British soldiers later discovered significant parts in 1916 during World War I while building fortifications. In the early 1930s, during works for draining part of Lake Kerkini nearby, very large pieces of the marble lion were found. The Lion was restored in 1937, thanks to a private initiative along with support and funds from the Greek government. Today, the Lion of Amphipolis stands as one of the most significant preserved monuments of the 4th century BC. While the identity of the person honored by the monument remains a subject of debate, the Lion of Amphipolis stands today as a majestic relic of Macedonian power, reflecting both the artistic excellence and political might of its era.

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