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Archaeological Site of Pherae: Echoes of Ancient Thessaly

Unearth the stories of ancient Thessaly at the Archaeological Site of Pherae, where myth and history intertwine in the heart of Greece.

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Explore the ruins of Pherae, an ancient city in Thessaly with a rich mythological and historical past. Wander through remnants of this once-thriving city-state, imagining the lives of its inhabitants from the Bronze Age through Roman times. Discover the Hypereia Fountain and the remains of the temple of Zeus Thaulios, and delve into the stories of King Admetus and his wife Alcestis.

A brief summary to Archaeological Site of Pherae

  • Monday 8:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a quieter exploration of the site.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Hypereia Fountain and the remains of the city walls.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Volos, take the KTEL Magnesias bus to Velestino. Buses depart approximately every four hours, and the journey takes about 30 minutes, costing between €1 and €3. From the Velestino bus station, the Archaeological Site of Pherae is a 15-minute walk.

  • Taxi

    From Volos, a taxi to the Archaeological Site of Pherae in Velestino takes about 18 minutes and costs approximately €21-€25. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Archaeological Site of Pherae

The Archaeological Site of Pherae, located in modern-day Velestino, offers a captivating glimpse into ancient Thessaly. Once a prominent city-state, Pherae boasts a history stretching back to the Neolithic era. The site is steeped in mythology, as the home of King Admetus and his wife Alcestis, figures immortalized in Euripides' play. Their son Eumelus is mentioned in Homer's Iliad as a leader in the Trojan War. Strategically positioned near important land routes, Pherae flourished, controlling the port of Pagasae and playing a key role in regional trade. The city allied with Athens during the Peloponnesian War and later rose to prominence under leaders like Lycophon and Jason of Pherae. Although its influence waned after Macedonian rule, Pherae's legacy remains palpable. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this ancient city, including the Hypereia Fountain, a classical-era spring. The acropolis, with its two hills, offers views of the surrounding area. Excavations have revealed aspects of daily life, including the agora and potters' quarters. While only a few monuments are visible, the site provides a tangible connection to the past.

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