Restoration works to begin on Roman Complex at Vasilissis Olgas

According to an announcement by the Ministry of Culture on August 12, archaeological excavations uncovered an impressive Roman building complex featuring a semicircular courtyard, colonnades, organised spaces and an extensive drainage network. The complex underwent successive construction phases from the 3rd to the 5th century AD, while important remains dating from the later Byzantine period were also identified at the site.

From the Themistoclean Wall to Byzantine Athens

Among the most significant discoveries is a rock-cut ditch belonging to the Themistoclean Wall, the oldest surviving element uncovered during the excavation, confirming the alignment of the ancient city’s fortifications.

The area north of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and adjacent to the Ilissos River is one of Athens’ most important historic areas, with continuous human presence from prehistoric times through the early Byzantine period.

Initially developed as an area of worship and habitation outside the walls of the ancient city, the area was home to several important sanctuaries. During the Roman period, particularly under Emperor Hadrian, it was gradually incorporated into the urban fabric and developed into one of Athens’ more affluent districts, featuring significant public and private buildings.

The excavation revealed that the Roman complex underwent two main construction phases. The first dates from the late 3rd to the early 4th century AD, while the second took place in the early 5th century. These were followed by smaller alterations and extensions.

The site’s final period of use dates to the Byzantine era. Archaeological evidence, including simpler masonry, underground built storage pits and large storage jars, indicates a change in the character of the area, which increasingly shifted towards productive and storage activities.

Restoration Works

The conservation and enhancement programme includes, among other measures:

• conservation and restoration of the masonry;
• protection and conservation of the mosaic floor;
• restoration of architectural elements;
• vegetation management;
• removal of modern and incompatible interventions;
• restoration of historic ground levels;
• improved interpretation and visibility of the archaeological site; and
• integrated rainwater management to protect the monuments.

The interventions have been designed in accordance with internationally recognised principles for the protection of architectural heritage, with particular emphasis on preserving the authenticity of the monument and its original building materials.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni, commenting on the project, stressed that following the reopening of Vasilissis Olgas Avenue to the public at the end of April, the protection and enhancement of the archaeological remains represents the next key step.

She noted that the collection of archaeological remains—from the ditch of the Themistoclean Wall to the extensive Roman complex and the Byzantine remains—significantly enhances understanding of the development of Athens from the Classical period through the Byzantine era.

The restoration of the monumental complex is expected to add another important chapter to the historical topography of the capital, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to discover a lesser-known yet particularly significant aspect of Athens’ long and complex history.