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MACEDONIAN JOURNEY Overview
This spring presents an irresistible opportunity. After several years of projects in ancient Macedonia, we have fallen in love with its verdant landscapes, its rich cultural heritage, and its strong and welcoming people. Now we have the privilege of sharing a fantastic trip that summarizes everything that has fascinated us.
Led by a native archaeologist and friend who will serve as our expert guide, this journey will immerse you in the archaeology, art, and culture of the most iconic sites in the homeland of Alexander the Great. To further enrich the experience and be able to fully appreciate every detail, we will have the opportunity to have experts in ancient painting, mosaics and ceramics. you'll not only learn the theory behind these ancient art forms but also have the chance to engage in hands-on workshops, using the materials and techniques of the masters of antiquity. 
the Schedule
Day 1: Arrival in Thessaloniki. Transfer by bus to Hotel in Veroia. Lunch and short afternoon visit to the city (Jewish Quarter, Old Metropolis). Dinner. Day 2: Vergina-Aigai. Visit to the New Museum, Palace of Philip II and the Church of Hagios Demetrios. Lunch. Afternoon presentation on ancient Greek painting. Dinner. Day 3: Vergina-Aigai. Visit to the archaeological park of the necropolis and the Museum of the Royal Tombs. Mieza tombs. Lunch in Naoussa. Afternoon painting workshop. Dinner. Day 4: Veroia-Pella. Museum & Site. Mosaic Workshop. Free afternoon in the city. Dinner. Day 5: Dion. Archaeological Park and Museum. Lunch. Return to Thessaloniki. Afternoon pottery workshop. Dinner. Day 6: Thessaloniki: Walking Tour on the City. Visit to antiquities of the metro Station in Venizelou. Rotunda and Arch of Galerius. Lunch. Byzantine Museum. Last dinner. PLACES TO DISCOVER
Thessaloniki:
Thessaloniki is the second largest city of Greece. Built near the sea it is a modern metropolis bearing the marks of its stormy history and its cosmopolitan character, which give it a special beauty and charm. Archaeological remains: The ancient forum (dated to the late 2nd or the early 3rd century AD) with squares, porticoes, additional buildings and odeum (293-395 AD), the palace complex of Galerius Maximianus (4th c. AD), the thermae, the hippodrome, the temples. In the south square, is the famous Stoa of the Idols, which was two-storeyed and lavishly decorated. The Triumphal Arch of Galerius (Kamara), built in AD 305. The Rotunda is an early 4th century building which later was converted into a Christian church. Byzantine monuments: City walls, archaeological site of a cemetery basilica, a martyrion and Early Christian graves, the byzantine bathhouse ), The Heptapyrgion castle that was raised in stages, from the early years of the Byzantine Age into the Ottoman period and several churches like these of Acheiropoietos (5th century), the Holy Wisdom of God (Hagia Sophia) (7th century), the Panaghia (Virgin) Chalkeon (1028), Agios Demetrios a splendid basilica dedicated to the patron saint and protector of the city, etc. 
Vergina Royal Tombs
In 1977-8 the royal tombs were discovered by the archaeologist Manolis Andronikos. Until their discovery, the tombs were covered by a tumulus 13 m high and 110 m across. It must have been constructed at the beginning of the third century BC by Antigonos Gonatas, to protect the royal tombs from further pillaging after marauding Galati had looted and destroyed the cemetery. The "dark museum" was constructed underground in 1993 to enclose and protect the royal tombs. From the outside, the building looks like an earthen mound, a tumulus; inside, the treasures found in the royal tombs have been on display since November 1997. It is an unforgetable experience, a journey into the underworld. Apart from the sepulchral monuments themselves, there is an open area of 1,000 sq.m., where the finds from the tombs are displayed in showcases. Lighting is very subdued to draw visitors’ undivided attention to the exhibits.
The royal palace and the theater of Aigai
The palace of Aigai, constructed during the reign of Philip II (359-336 BC), stands as a testament to ancient Greek architecture. Not only is it the largest palace of classical Greece, but it also shares the distinction of being one of the most significant buildings of the era, alongside the Parthenon. The recent completion of the palace's reconstruction, after many years of excavation, restoration, and reconstruction work, is a remarkable achievement. Built on a raised outcrop, this immense structure – three times the size of the Parthenon – commanded views of the entire Macedonian basin. It was a symbol of power and beauty, a landmark visible from afar. Designed for Philip II and likely constructed by the architect Pytheos, the palace of Aigai is a unique and revolutionary building. Its grandeur and innovation continue to inspire awe and wonder. Directly below the palace, on the slope of the mountain, lies the Theater, where Philip II himself was assassinated. 
Veria (Berioa): Cathedral-Jewish and old quarters.
Veria stands on a high plateau in the east foothills of Mount Vermion and has been continuously inhabited from at least the Archaic period until the present day. The original core of the city was a small area that was converted about the end of the 4th century BC into an organised urban centre, and experienced its first great period of prosperity as early as the 3rd century BC. Thanks to its geographical position and the fertile land by which it was surrounded, it developed as early as the 4th century AD into a prominent administrative, military and ecclesiastical centre of the empire. It was adorned in Early Byzantine times with brilliant religious and secular buildings testifying to the changes in urban design brought about in the new era.
Agios Dimitrios. Palatitsia
The church of Agios Demetrios at Palatitsia has been rebuilt with architectural elements from the royal palace of Philip II at the location of a Byzantine cemetery in the 16th century AD. The church is characterized by its lavish wall paintings and its well-maintained construction which is evidence of the economic prosperity of the region’s inhabitants and the artistic peak of the area during these times. The temple, which is designated as a monument by UNESCO, was closed and deserted for decades, until 2017 when studies regarding its restoration and maintenance were approved. Its rich interior decoration, with rare wall paintings, is added to the admirable architectural design of the structure and the refined construction. Half of the wall paintings were created by Nicholaos Zografos and “narrated” the life of Christ and Saint Demetrios, portrayed saints, prophets and martyrs of the Church, the Assumption of the Theotokos and the Platytera of Heaven. The rest of the wall paints, which belong to an unknown artist, depict the Last Judgment while among the figures of the triumphant and victorious stands Alexander the Great. This is a rare presentation of high aesthetics and great historical value. It has been an honour to be able to follow its restauration process. 
Dion
Mieza Tombs
The WorksopsPainting Workshop with Tasos Kakamanoudis
We will explore experimental reconstructions of ancient Greek artworks, with authentic traditional materials and techniques. A hands-on experience on painting with tempera and encaustic on marble and wood, which you can then take home with you as a keepsake. 
Mosaic Workshop with Lily Stambouli and Vasiliki Nosti
These skilled conservators and mosaic artists have contributed to renowned projects, including the restoration of the Palace of Aigai and the establishment of the New Museum of Aigai. Under their expert guidance, we'll have the opportunity to create our own mosaic artwork using tiles and natural pebbles. We encourage you to draw inspiration from the magnificent mosaics that we would have explored in the museums of Macedonia during our recent tours.
Pottery Workshop with Thomas Mavroudis
Thomas is a celebrated potter and clay artist located in Thessaloniki. His deep understanding of materials and ancient techniques, passed down through generations of master artisans will be an invaluable resource. Thomas will conduct experimental reconstructions of ancient Greek vases and provide hands-on opportunities for us to experience working with clay on the potter's wheel. accommodationWe will be staying in two different hotels to optimize your experience. In Veroia, the heart of the region we'll be exploring, we'll stay in a charming and picturesque hotel located in the Jewish quarter of the old town. The hotel and surrounding houses have been beautifully restored, and we'll be accommodated in comfortable double rooms.
Our second hotel will be in the center of Thessaloniki, allowing ourselves to easily explore all the city's attractions on foot.
One of the most intriguing and surprising aspects of discovering a new culture is often its cuisine. During your stay, you will have the opportunity to savor the diverse Mediterranean flavors and typical recipes of the region. From charming restaurants and cozy coffee shops to vibrant street food stalls and bustling markets, we'll explore a world of new and exciting culinary experiences.
Dates and feesApril 21 - 27 2025
Fees: US$ 2,390 Program Fees Include: Hotels, restaurants, daily transportation, guides, museums and workshops. Fees DO NOT include airfare. 
PAYMENT PROCESS:
To reserve a space, you must pay a $400 application fee. (Included in the total price). The remainder of the program cost will be due by April 1st. Application fees will be refunded if the applicant is not selected. Application Deadline: Rolling application. We accept applications until all spaces are filled. Cancellation and Refund Policy: -After April 1st: All payments are non-refundable. -If the trip is canceled for any unexpected reason, all payments will be immediatelly refunded. Travel Arrangements: You should begin making travel arrangements as soon as your place in the group is reserved, and you should complete them upon being notified of your selection. We strongly recommend that participants purchase travel insurance to cover all needs including medical, accident, baggage loss, delays and personal liability. ArchaeoSpain is not a travel provider nor is a registered travel agent. Your travel arrangements to and from Greece are subject to the terms and conditions of your travel agency. In the rare event that the program is cancelled, ArchaeoSpain will refund program fees, but is not responsible for non-refundable airline or other tickets or payments or any similar penalties that may be incurred. It is your responsibility to protect yourself against airline and travel agency cancellation fees. 
Medical Insurance:
All ArchaeoSpain participants are covered with an insurance packet that provides medical and surgical treatment and prescription drugs in case of accident or sudden illness. This insurance also provides some compensation for baggage loss or theft. European students should bring an EHIC card with them. Right of Refusal: ArchaeoSpain reserves the right to refuse an applicant’s selection. This is a rare occurrence and is most likely due to a person’s inability to meet health requirements or in the interest of group compatibility. Once in the field, the program director and ArchaeoSpain reserve the right to send a participant away from the program should that person’s behavior compromise the safety, research objectives and general performance of the group, or violate Greek laws, regulations or customs. As part of one of Archaeospain's programs, you agree to respect the archaeological sites and monuments in accordance with the laws of each country.
the staff
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