After 16 years of meticulous restoration, Greece has reopened the doors to the ancient palace of Alexander the Great, inviting the world to delve back into a crucial chapter of history, ftnnews.com reports.
Located in the northern region near Vergina, Aigai Palace, once the heart of the Macedonian kingdom, today bears witness to the grandeur of a bygone era.
The Palace of Aigai, originally a royal metropolis of the Macedonians, was the largest structure in classical Greece, covering an impressive 15,000 square meters. It was built mainly by King Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, in the 4th century BCE. This architectural marvel served not only as a royal residence but also as a ceremonial and cultural center, witnessing the coronation of one of the most legendary figures in history.
The accession to the throne of Alexander the Great marked the beginning of an era of unprecedented conquest and cultural expansion. His empire, stretching from Greece to Egypt, Iran and even northern India and Central Asia, paved the way for the Hellenistic period. This era saw the spread of Greek culture and influence across the Eastern Mediterranean, shaping the history of the region for centuries to come.
The historical significance of the palace is immense, comparable to iconic monuments like the Parthenon in Athens. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, during the opening ceremony, highlighted the palace’s role in world heritage, saying: “It is the place where Alexander the Great was crowned king, shortly after the assassination of his father, to begin his glorious campaign.
The restoration of the palace was a monumental task. This required extensive excavation, documentation and conservation of the artifacts, with the Greek government and European Union investing more than €20 million in the project. The painstaking work included the restoration of 1,400 square meters of mosaics, marble floors and several columns, while preserving the historic essence of the site.
Visitors to the palace can now marvel at the grandeur of the ancient world. The site offers a rare insight into the life and times of Alexander the Great, showcasing the splendor of Macedonian architecture and the intricate artistry of the era. The palace area, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, not only celebrates the legacy of a great ruler, but also serves as a bridge connecting the past to the present.
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