Visit the city of Ancient Filippoi
The ancient city of Filippoi (Philippi) is one of Northern Greece’s greatest archaeological treasures and is only a short drive from Stamatia Apartments in Asprovalta. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of history, culture, and myth, and it gives visitors an unforgettable walk through time.
A Look Back in Time
King Philip II of Macedon, who was Alexander the Great’s father, built the ancient city of Philippi in the 4th century BC. The city was built on the site of an older Thasian colony called Krinides (or Crenides), which was well-placed near the head of the Aegean Sea and at the foot of the beautiful Mount Orbelos. Philippi grew into a center of trade, culture, and military importance because of its great location.
In ancient times, a wide marsh covered the plain around the city, which was separated from the rich Pangaion Hills to the south, which were known for their gold and silver mines. These resources were very important in helping the Macedonian Empire grow.
From the Macedonians to the Romans
Centuries later, Philippi grew to be one of the most important Roman cities in the area. After the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, when Mark Antony and Octavian’s troops beat Brutus and Cassius’s troops, who had killed Julius Caesar, it became famous.
Philippi did even better under Roman rule. It became a thriving colony with grand forums, temples, baths, and a beautifully designed theater, some of which are still standing today. The city is also important to Christian history because it was here that the Apostle Paul started the first Christian church in Europe, around 49 AD.
What to Look at in Ancient Filippoi
Today, a trip to Philippi feels like going to a huge museum outside. Some of the best parts are:
- The Ancient Theater of Philippi is one of the best-preserved theaters in Macedonia. It is still used for performances during the Philippi Festival every year.
- The Roman Forum was once the center of public life, with markets, temples, and government buildings.
- The Early Christian Basilicas have beautiful mosaic floors and architectural remains that tell the story of how the city became Christian.
- The Prison of St. Paul is where people used to think that the Apostle Paul and Silas were kept.
- The Archaeological Museum of Philippi is a modern museum that shows statues, inscriptions, pottery, and other things that were found at the site.
It takes about 45 minutes by car (about 55 km) to get to the archaeological site of Philippi from Stamatia Apartments. The Egnatia Odos (E90) highway is the best way to get there. The route is beautiful and easy to follow, going through the green Macedonian countryside and small, old-fashioned villages.
(Photo credits: http://www.kavala.gov.gr/web/guest/cityofkavala/museums )
