Workis being carried out on the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna to fix and restore the walls and towers.
The Ministry of Culture, as part of its strategic planning for the protection, restoration and demonstration of the cultural heritage of Thessaly, proceeds and completes the archaeological works at the acropolis of Ancient Pelinna, in the Municipality of Farkadona, in the Regional Unity of Trikala.
At the archaeological site of Pelinna, with its long historical continuity and prominent role in antiquity, a set of works is being carried out concerning the fixing and restoration of the western part of the walls and the northwestern towers, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Culture and Sports.
Ancient Pelinna, one of the most important cities of Ancient Estiotida, is located about 16 km east of Trikala. During the late Classical and Hellenistic times it flourished, when the old city was transformed into an acropolis and its citadel extended into the plain, protected by a strong fortified enclosure.
The domination of the Macedonians, in Thessaly, ended with the defeat of Philip V, in 197 BC. In 191 BC, during the Antiochian War, the Athamanians captured Pelinna, and the citywas subsequently occupied by the Romans and fell into obscurity. However, the strategic importance of the location was maintained during the Byzantine period, when the settlement of “Gardikion” developed in the acropolis, with continuous habitation until the early Ottoman years.
Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said: “The walls of Ancient Pelinna constitute one of the most important ancient fortifications in Thessaly. Its acropolis is a monumental complex of particular historical and archaeological value for the whole of Thessaly, with outstanding architectural remains, which date mainly to the Hellenistic period.
With the interventions that are in progress, by the Ephorate of Antiquities of Trikala, based on the approved studies, the protection and restoration of the monument is ensured, with absolute respect to its authenticity and timelessness. Our goal is, in parallel, with the works carried out on the monument, reflecting its long historical continuity, to enhance not only the great cultural physiognomy of the wider region but also to strengthen the sustainable development of local communities.
With mild and completely compatible interventions, a great archaeological site is created, accessible and safe, which enhances the cultural dynamics of Thessaly, while creating, at the same time, new economic activities in the entire region.”
The citadel, built in a naturally fortified position, is surrounded by a wall of a bank-like plan on its western, southern and eastern sides. The northern end of the western side is of particular importance, where a strong bastion is formed, with two towers and a medial tower space. The central part of the western wall is of ancient construction, with extensive medieval interventions, which requires a specialised and multi-level treatment.
The aim of the programme of works being carried out is to restore the structural coherence of the remains, address moisture and dynamic load and bearing problems, and to preserve all the historic phases of the monument. Work is planned to fix the stonework, strengthen cracks, partial restoration in sections in a state of disrepair, improve drainage, and landscaping.
