The Hellenic Ministry of Culture is advancing the restoration and enhancement of the Agora complex within the archaeological site of Dion, a cornerstone of ancient Macedonian heritage.
According to an official statement, the project is being carried out by the Ephorate of Antiquities of Pieria and focuses on preserving and showcasing one of the most significant public spaces of the ancient city — the Agora. This area housed key civic and social buildings, including bath complexes and the Odeon.
Among the monuments under restoration is a ceramic kiln dating to late antiquity, located on the northern side of the Agora. The kiln features a two-chamber design — one for fuel and one for firing ceramics — supported by four pairs of rectangular piers made of ceramic bricks and clay. The Central Archaeological Council has unanimously approved the study for its conservation and presentation.
Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni emphasized the scope and importance of the work:
“The Ministry of Culture is implementing an extensive and multifaceted initiative to protect and highlight the archaeological site of Dion, one of Macedonia’s most historically and archaeologically significant locations.”
She noted that the restoration of the Hellenistic theatre of Dion was completed last summer and reopened to the public during the 53rd Olympus-Dion Festival. Upgrades to visitor facilities have also been finalized, including a renovated entrance building, ticket office, and refreshment area, all managed by the Organization for the Management and Development of Cultural Resources.
The current phase of the Agora project is funded by the Regional Operational Programme of Central Macedonia under the NSRF 2021–2027. The next phase is expected to begin within the year.
As part of the National Strategic Plan for Climate Change Adaptation in Cultural Heritage, the Ministry is also undertaking €2.5 million in flood protection works at the site, funded through the Recovery and Resilience Facility.
In addition, a new study is in progress for the renovation of the Dion Archaeological Museum.
“These projects not only improve the aesthetic and functional aspects of the site,” Minister Mendoni added, “but also play a vital role in attracting more visitors and promoting cultural tourism in the region.”
Source: Athens–Macedonian News Agency (AMNA)