Ancient treasures unveiled: The Royal Palace of Pella opens to the public with stunning statues

January 5, 2026
Written by E.Tsiliopoulos

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Ancient treasures unveiled: The Royal Palace of Pella opens to the public with stunning statues

This sprawling 70-acre complex, situated on a hill overlooking the ancient city, reveals the grandeur of Macedonian royalty and their lifestyle during the Hellenistic era.

Adding to the excitement, two magnificent marble statues dating back to the Hellenistic period were unveiled for the first time. Discovered a decade ago during university excavations at the northern stoa of Pella’s Agora, these sculptures have been painstakingly restored and now grace the halls of the Archaeological Museum. One statue depicts a standing male figure, likely a Silenus—an attendant of Dionysus—while the other is believed to be a votive offering to a deity, highlighting the rich religious practices of the time.

The palace itself, built in phases from the reign of Philip II through the Hellenistic period, housed grand reception halls, royal apartments, council chambers, and even a palaestra for the training of noble youths. Although looted and abandoned after the Roman conquest in 168 BC, the site’s ongoing excavation and restoration have transformed it into a must-visit destination.

Visitors will also find a newly inaugurated visitor center offering interactive exhibits and digital guides to help them explore the site’s foundations and understand its historical significance. Starting next tourist season, digital tickets and virtual tours will enhance access, as part of a broader initiative to unify over 300 archaeological sites across Greece into a single digital platform.

The opening marks a new chapter for Pella, blending ancient history with modern technology and celebrating the legacy of one of the world’s most legendary figures.