Thessaloniki, Greece – After an extensive 16-year restoration, the Palace of Aigai, a site of immense historical significance where Alexander the Great was crowned king, has reopened. Situated close to Thessaloniki, the northern port city of Greece, this monument dates back more than 2,300 years, holding a pivotal place in classical antiquity.
The restoration project, amounting to over €20m, received support from the EU. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis celebrated the momentous occasion during the reopening ceremony, emphasizing its global importance, stating, “The significance of such monuments becomes the heritage of the entire world. We must highlight it, promote it, and expand the horizons revealed by each new facet.”
Είχα τη χαρά να βρεθώ σήμερα στην εκδήλωση για τα εγκαίνια του αναστηλωμένου ανακτόρου του Φιλίππου Β’, στο Πολυκεντρικό Μουσείο Αιγών. Αξίζουν πολλά συγχαρητήρια στους πρωτεργάτες αυτού του τόσο πολύπλοκου έργου. https://t.co/40ImGjtXZ3 pic.twitter.com/y2DlVWaSox
— Prime Minister GR (@PrimeministerGR) January 5, 2024
The Palace of Aigai, commissioned by Philip II, father of Alexander the Great and ruler of Macedonia, once served as the grand capital near modern Vergina. Encompassing a vast area of 15,000 square meters, it boasted colossal colonnades, spacious banquet halls, religious sanctuaries, and sprawling courtyards.
In 336 BC, following his father’s tragic demise, Alexander ascended to the Macedonian throne at this regal site. His reign marked the inception of an empire stretching across Asia and the Middle East.
The Palace of Aigai, alongside the tombs of Philip and other Macedonian kings nearby, holds UNESCO World Heritage status, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and grandeur of ancient Greece. The site will be open to the public starting Sunday, inviting all to witness the legacy of an era etched in time.
