Imathia

The prefecture of Imathia is a mixture of fertile plains where cops grow profusely and high mountains, which in the winter are popular ski resorts. The region has many good vineyards in which they produce some excellent wines. The history of the region was further enhanced, when in 1970, major archaeological discoveries were made at the village of Vergina .

Veria, the capital of the prefecture, the town also known as “Little Jerusalem” due to the large number of churches there, is quaintly charming. Many of the older houses from the Turkish era are under renovation to return them to their former glory. The old Jewish quarter with its antique shops and tailors and cafes is interesting to wander, nearby is a large old tree were in 1430 The Turkish invaders hanged the Archbishop of the town.

Naoussa, this town to the north of Veria is a popular holiday resort, summer and winter well known for its textiles and delicious wines. The village of Seli on Mt Vermion (1.429m) is the centre for ski enthusiasts, good hotels and facilities ensure that the visitors enjoy themselves.

Vergina, it was here in 1970 that Professor M. Andronikos and his team uncovered what is know believed to be the ancient city of Aigai, the first capital of the kingdom of Macedonia. Excavations revealed the foundations of a theatre, palace and houses also a temple however the most important discovery was the Royal Tombs. The tombs where found under a tumulus (mound grave) and consisted of four separate tombs. Tomb number one, known as Persephone’s Tomb was empty, probably due to looting in the past. Tomb number two, was that of Philip II, the king of Macedonia assassinated at the wedding of his daughter Cleopatra in 336BC. The tomb had remained untouched, the archaeologists found an exquisite gold larnax (box like container) marked with the royal seal on the lid, containing the remains of the king also a golden crown. Around the grave lay weapons and utensils all with the royal seal. The remains of one of his wife’s or concubines lay also in a equally beautiful gold larnax The third tomb believed to be that of Alexander the fourth, the son of Alexander the Great, sadly to say the looters got here first. The fourth tomb also had a visit from the looters. Other fine objects fro the tombs are on display at the museum in Thessaloniki .The ruins of a royal palace can be seen further up the road from the tombs.

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