The Ministry of Culture, through the Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala, is undertaking the restoration and preservation of the structural elements of the western arm and northwestern tower of the acropolis at Ancient Pelinna.
Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni stated: “Ancient Pelinna, located approximately 16 km east of Trikala, was one of the most prominent cities in Ancient Estiotida. It flourished during the late Classical and Hellenistic periods due to its steadfast pro-Macedonian stance. During this time, the old city site was transformed into an acropolis, and the surrounding fortress was expanded into the plain, protected by a robust wall. Alexander the Great passed through Ancient Pelinna in 335 BC on his way to invade Boeotia. Ancient texts and architectural remnants offer significant insights into the city’s life, particularly in the 4th century BC, and the ongoing project continues to uncover new information.
The Acropolis, the city’s original centre until its expansion under the Macedonians, is located on a naturally fortified hilltop with views over the plain. The current restoration efforts focus on addressing the issues facing the northwestern rampart to preserve and enhance the monument while ensuring it is accessible to the public. The goal is to create a safe and well-organized archaeological site that is easily accessible and informative for visitors.”
On the northern side of the citadel, a natural steep depression (dolini) likely formed by the collapse of an underground cave makes the site inaccessible from this direction. As a result, the fortifications form a trapezoidal enclosure on the other three sides. The monument faces challenges stemming from both natural factors, long-term neglect, and human activity. These issues include the collapse of the superstructure caused by water infiltration, the removal of ancient materials for modern construction, and deliberate damage from illicit excavations. Rainfall, poor soil conditions, occasional dynamic stresses, and dense vegetation have led to cracks and stone displacements. Recent excavations have uncovered over 300 architectural features surrounding the monument.
During the 6th and 5th centuries BC, the city was confined to the southern slopes of “Paleogardiki” hill, which later became the acropolis. Macedonian control over Thessaly ended with the defeat of Philip V in 197 BC. In 191 BC, during the Antiochian War, the Athamanians captured Pelinna, and the city was later occupied by the Romans, eventually falling into obscurity. During the Byzantine period, the settlement of ‘Gardikion’ was established on the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna. Recent excavation findings suggest that settlement continued until the early years of the Ottoman occupation, after which the site was abandoned. Evidence from the medieval period includes repair work on the fortifications and remains of a three-aisled basilica.