Overview:

Philippi is an archaeological site in Greece located 16 miles from the Aegean Sea, near the modern Greek city of Kavala. It was a major city of the Macedonian kingdom and home of Alexander the Great's legendary general, Alexander the Great. Here, Julius Caesar beat Pompey's forces in 42 BCE and thus established the Roman province of Macedonia. The city was an important center of early Christianity, as it is home to the site of St. Paul's historic conversion of Lydia. Notable structures at the site include the ruins of a large and well-fortified theatre, an acropolis, several civic basilicas, a large Roman agora, and a gymnasium. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Greece
Prominent Features:

1. The site of Philippi is an ancient city in eastern Macedonia, located in what is today northern Greece, on the banks of the eponymous river. 2. This archaeological site includes the ruins of an ancient acropolis, a temple of Apollo, a temple of Asklepios, the remains of a Late Roman Forum, a basilica, and a theatre. 3. An important factor in the history and archaeology of Philippi is its strategic location. It is located at a crossroads between major trade hubs in the Balkans and Asia Minor. 4. In 42 BCE, Philippi was the site of one of the most significant battles in the history of the Roman Republic- it was here that the armies of Mark Anthony and Octavian defeated Brutus and Cassius, the assassins of Julius Caesar. 5. Other remains at the site include a Roman bathhouse, a necropolis, and the remains of two Early Christian churches (the Church of Philippi and the Church of the Holy Apostles). 6. In 2016, Philippi was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its archaeological importance, highlighting its role in the development of the Roman Empire and its involvement in late Antiquity and early Christianity. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Greece.

History:

The ancient port-city of Philippi is located in northern Greece and was an important stronghold of the Roman Empire during the Hellenistic period. It was originally settled by King Philip II of Macedonia in 356 BC. After the death of Philip, the city was renamed Philippi and became the seat of a powerful dynasty of Roman kings, including Pompey the Great, who added more and more fortifications. After Julius Caesar's victory in the civil war, Augustus founded the colony at Philippi and the city grew to become one of the most important towns in the Roman empire, being an important supply center for the imperial legions. The city reached its peak in the late Roman period, with a population of around 10,000 people. It was a major center of Roman culture and administration. In the early Christian era, the Apostle Paul established a Christian community in Philippi. This early Christian community was later described by the Byzantine historian Procopius of Caesarea in his book “Life of St. Paul”, written around A.D. 540. The archaeological site of Philippi lies on the eastern side of the river Strymon. Excavations made at the site have unearthed a plethora of architectural and archaeological discoveries that reflect the richness of Philippi's past. The most celebrated remains include a basilica, baths, an agora, a theatre, and several small temples. Additionally, uncovered artifacts include Greek and Roman coins, frescos, public inscriptions, and sculptures. In contrast to the Christian tradition, the archaeological discoveries provide evidence of the classical and Hellenistic past of un-Christian Philippi. In 1967, the archaeological site of Philippi was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Visit one of the famous monuments of Greece with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Philippi is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It is located in the Northern Greece and holds immense historical potential. 2. Philippi is most famous for its significance in the New Testament of the Bible. It was the site of the first recorded Christian congregation in Europe. 3. Philippi is also home to remains of a 4th century BC city, including an ancient Greek theatre, the walls of the acropolis and a necropolis. 4. Philippi is a unique mix of Greek, Roman and Byzantine cultures, reflected in its architecture. This makes it an ideal destination for anyone interested in studying the history of the Mediterranean. 5. Philippi is also considered to be the birthplace of wine and olive cultivation in Greece. These methods are still used today in the region’s vineyards and groves. 6. In 2013, Philippi was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This placed it on the list of sites of ‘Outstanding Universal Value’. 7. The archaeological site of Philippi includes a Christian monastery, the Kamphi chapel and cemeteries. It is located 6 km from the modern city of Kavala. 8. The Philippi Archaeological Museum is located adjacent to the site and houses a number of interesting artefacts from the area. These include coins, jewellery, sculptures and pottery. One of the historical monuments of Greece, it tells the story of a bygone era