A recent excavation season at Kleidi Samikon, part of a five-year research initiative from 2022 to 2026, unveiled a remarkable temple-like structure dating back to the 6th century BC.
During this excavation, researchers made significant progress in understanding a grand architectural site initially discovered in 2022. This collaborative project involves the Ephorate of Antiquities of Elis and the Austrian Archaeological Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, led by Dr. Birgitta Eder and Dr. Erofili-Irida Kollia.
The excavation revealed a structure measuring 28 meters long and 9.5 meters wide, featuring two large inner chambers with two columns along their axes and porches at either end. Preliminary findings suggest this may have been a double temple from the 6th century BCE. Notably, around 300 BCE or the early 3rd century BCE, the roof appears to have been removed, with tiles scattered inside, hinting at its possible abandonment during that time.
Intriguing Archaic Artifacts Discovered
Among the significant finds is an archaic marble basin, discovered in one of the chambers, used for ritual purification. Approximately one meter in diameter, this basin was modelled after a bronze version and shows evidence of ancient repairs, with metal clamps securing its broken pieces. Thanks to a piece found during the previous year’s excavation, it is now nearly complete.
In the second chamber, remnants of an ancient marble enclosure, also around one meter in diameter, were uncovered. This relic, designed for ritual purification, reflects the style of a copper basin and displays historical repairs through metal links binding its fractured sections.
Another notable discovery is a bronze plaque that likely adorned a temple wall. Diagnostic imaging has revealed a large inscription, which will be further examined during conservation efforts at the Ephorate of Antiquities of Elis laboratory.
Additionally, archaeologists documented a robust wall first identified by Wilhelm Dörpfeld in the early 20th century, likely marking the northern boundary of the Poseidon Sanctuary's precinct. The collaboration with the Region of Western Greece has been crucial, as they cleared thick vegetation to support the excavation work.
The research team plans to continue its efforts in the coming years, aiming to uncover further evidence to better understand the sanctuary’s extent and significance within the surrounding landscape.