Amphipolis excavations resume

A large number of tourists visited the area throughout the weekend to observe the archaeological finds. The Amphipolis Museum posted a record high in visitors who wanted to see the exhibits, while visitors were also able to observe from a distance the site of the excavations with the aid of special telescopic lens.

Excavations at ancient Amphipolis have intrigued the world with announcements of forthcoming major discoveries, as conveyed by Prime Minister Antonis Samaras himself during a visit to the site last week. Work was suspended at the large site with its newly-discovered monumental wall protecting a tomb dated to the fourth century BC, because of the long weekend of August 15th.

The entrance of the tomb in question appears to be at a stone-built archway under which two head-less Sphinxes have been found.  The head-less Sphinxes will be removed with the aid of special equipment, in order for archaeologists to be able to get inside the tomb and finally discover if there are any buried treasures inside.

The excavation team is led by archaeologist Katerina Peristeri that was joined by collaborating architect Michalis Lefadzis, who told ANA-MPA that "the ministry of Culture (the official agency) will provide further briefings on excavation developments."

He added that "news will be coming very soon," and denied rumors that the divulging of information related to "what lies behind the Sphinxes is timed to coincide with the opening of the International Thessaloniki Fair," on September 6th.