Over 300,000 ancient finds were unearthed in Greece during construction of a new subway system
A groundbreaking construction project for a new subway system in Thessaloniki, Greece has unearthed a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, many of which have been ingeniously incorporated into the design of the metro stations along the route. The Agias Sofias metro station, part of a 9.6-kilometer line that began construction in 2003, has become a showcase for thousands of significant archaeological finds dating back to various time periods.
Excavations during the construction of the subway system have revealed a wealth of ancient treasures, including Roman-era roads, Greek burial sites, mosaics, water and drainage systems, and more. These discoveries have not only added to the cost of the project but have also caused delays in order to properly preserve and display the historical artifacts. Over 300,000 archaeological finds have been showcased at various stations along the main line, creating a unique blend of ancient history and modern infrastructure.
Transport and Infrastructure Minister Christos Staikouras praised the project for its integration of archaeological heritage with metro infrastructure, calling it a remarkable blend of the ancient and modern. The brand-new subway system, featuring driverless trains and platform screen doors, has cost $3.1 billion to complete and is set to open its first line on November 30, 2024, with a second line following a year later.
Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is no stranger to archaeological sites. The city is home to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and the Polycentric Museum of Aigai, among other historical destinations. Greece itself boasts a rich history of ancient landmarks, including the world-renowned National Archaeological Museum in Athens, which is considered one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.
The White Tower, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, and the Agios Dimitrios Church are just a few of the many historical sites scattered throughout Thessaloniki, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich past. The unveiling of ancient artifacts through the construction of the new subway system adds yet another layer of history to this vibrant city, blending the old with the new in a truly unique way.
As the subway system prepares to open its doors to passengers in 2024, residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to marvel at these ancient treasures while traveling through the city. The fusion of archaeological finds with modern infrastructure serves as a testament to Thessaloniki’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to preserving the past for future generations to enjoy.
