Alexander the Great - Dion / Vergina(full-day)

We will visit Dion where our guests can visit the archaeological site.

Last stop Vergina, where you can admire the excavations of the Royal Tombs, one of which is believed to belong to Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.

PROGRAM

7:45-8.30 Pick up from the hotels.

8.30   Departure from N. Moudania

9.30   Arrival at Thessaloniki – pick up the guide

10.15  Coffee Break

10.40  Departure for Dion.

11.10  Arrival at Dion. Visit to the archeological site.

Dion, the sacred city of the Macedonians, lies at the foothills of M. Olympus in an area of inexhaustible natural charm.

Extensive archeological excavations have been conducted by the Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki and have brought to light excellent monuments inside and outside of the city: a vaulted Macedonian tomb, sanctuaries, theaters, a stadium where Olympic games were organized, the Great Baths complex, shops and workshops, the odeion, an early Christian Basilica, residences, the so called ‘’villa of Dionysus’’ with a superb mosaic and a large number of statues, inscriptions, offerings, vessels and other findings that grace the museum. The Macedonians used to gather at Dion to honor the Olympian Gods with sacrifices and offerings. There Philip II celebrated his glorious victories and Alexander the Great, starting out his expedition, sacrificed to Olympian Zeus.

12.30     Departure to Vergina

13.30     Arrival at Vergina

13.45 – 14.45 Visit to the Tombs – Museum of Vergina

Vergina, in ancient times called Aigai, was the ancient capital of Macedonia where in 1977 Royal tombs came to light full of exceptional treasures. The most impressive is the one that belonged to Philip II, king of Macedon in the 4th c. B.C. and father of Alexander the Great. Gold wreathes, silver vessels, weapons, ivory – gold and glass decorated couches as well as the gold larnax (chest) containing the relics of the king himself are some of the many treasures of the tomb that are displayed in a unique museum for its atmosphere, philosophy and lay out, a perfect combination of archeological site and museum at the same time. Next to Philip’s, the tomb of the prince equal to richness was found, the son of Alexander the Great. Apart from the tombs a palace also came to light, workshops, part of the ancient city, a theater, a temple and several other tombs even from the prehistoric period.

15.00-16.00  Lunch at local restaurant

16.00   Departure from Vergina

17.00   Thessaloniki (17.30 latest)

18:00   Arrival at Chalkidiki – end of the tour