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Aigai ve Çevresindeki Antik Yol Sistemi
Archaeological research at the site of Aigai (modern Vergina) reveals that the ancient city was a critical transportation hub, particularly during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, connecting northern and southern regions as well as inland areas with coastal ones. The study highlights significant urban expansion during the Hellenistic period, with the city's area increasing fourfold, followed by prolonged occupation until nearly complete abandonment due to Gothic invasions in the late 3rd century AD. Later Byzantine settlements emerged in the 12th–13th centuries. Excavations uncovered a section of Athena Street and provided insights into the city's water infrastructure, dating back to the 5th–6th centuries AD. The exposed ancient roads not only enhance archaeological understanding but also improve visitor accessibility, bridging the gap between scholarly knowledge and public engagement.
Erste Ergebnisse der archäologischen Untersuchungen des byzantinischen Aigai (Aiolis)
Archaeological investigations at Aigai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in modern-day Vergina, Greece, have uncovered significant insights into its Byzantine era. The study, led by Prof. Dr. Ersin Doğer since 2004, reveals that the city's last inhabitants, the Byzantines, reused spolia from older buildings, leaving behind fragile architecture that has suffered from landslides, torrents, and human destruction. Notably, a sacral building from the 12th or 13th century remains preserved, alongside abundant pottery, glass, metal objects, and coins. These findings provide a rare glimpse into Aigai's Byzantine period, offering new perspectives on its history and civilization.
The Bronze Calyx-Krater from the ‘Heuzey B’ Tomb in Vergina (Ancient Aigai)
A bronze calyx-krater, adorned with Maenad masks on its handles, was uncovered in the 'Heuzey B' tomb at Vergina (ancient Aigai), reinforcing its significance as a funerary urn from the late 4th century BC. This discovery, part of the Heuzey burial group, contributes to a small but notable collection of similar bronze kraters from Macedonia, including findings from Vergina-Aigai and Pydna, as well as comparative studies in Athens. The krater's dating aligns with archaeological evidence, underscoring its cultural and historical importance within the broader context of ancient Macedonian burial practices.
Aigai
Aigai, located on the northern slopes of the Pierian mountains and east of Beroia, was the first capital and royal residence of the Macedonian kingdom under the Temenid Dynasty. Originally a city named Edessa inhabited by the Bryges, it was later renamed Aigai by Macedonian conquerors or founded by Temenid rulers such as Perdikkas, Karanos, or Archelaos in the 8th or 7th century BCE. This site is significant for its role as an early Macedonian stronghold and its association with legendary figures from ancient history.
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