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Τα μάρμαρα της Αμφίπολης έχουν τη δική τους ιστορία

Μόλις η στάθμη των νερών στη λίμνη Κερκίνη των Σερρών χαμήλωσε, What was an open secret for locals came back to light. More than a hundred of the scattered large marbles of the ancient Mound Kasta Amphipolis, cornices, uprights and stepseis, parts of the monumental enclosure at burial Hill complex, suddenly appeared again through the waters.

The images gave in recent days published in the Ministry of culture, show some of the approximately 500 architectural members are left here and there in the broader drama Earth. Already since last March, in the 27th scientific meeting for the archaeological project in Macedonia and Thrace, in Thessaloniki, the head of KI Ephorate of prehistoric and classical Antiquities, the digger Katerina Peristeri, had announced that two years ago the Conservancy survey in the region of Amphipolis were detected in the area of the monument of Leo scattered architectural parts, to open at the base and height of 5 m. Lion.

Based on the archaeological considerations, much of it was apoxilwthei in Roman times from the burial grounds of the Mound. Came, i.e., from the unique in the world, because of the size of (length 497 measures, height of three meters), funerary enclosure of Mound Kasta, dating between 325 and 300 eg (last quarter of the 4th century). According to Ms. Peristeri, the precinct that carries the signature of renowned architect at that time Deinokrati, a friend of Alexander the great. These marbles that were built from Aliki Thassos. From there, with special boats transported to ancient Amphipolis.

Today, scientists who study the excavation of Amphipolis is talking about four rows of marble per meter, IE for about 2.000 pieces of stones (for the total length of 497m.).

From these, as you point out, they have been found up to now about the 600, They identified by archaeologists as belonging to the burial grounds of the Mound Kasta. The 500 It is now in the lion of Amphipolis, While the remaining 100 the village Lithotopos, where are found under the mud or surface. In other words, the exact location remains unknown where are today the remaining 1.400 heavy marmaropetres that marking out the ancient this funerary enclosure. From as many, However, found, already several loaded from the excavation crew and transferred, to further study, in their inscriptions.

What the locals are saying today

"The marbles were sections-the yard of lining Mound of Amphipolis. As it is said, the Romans the xilwsan and threw in the Struma, in order to become passable the river, like a bridge, to can pass.

In there they threw and the lion, for’ It was found in disrepair, by Englishmen in 1917, "says Dimitris Dimoudis, President of the society for the study and Research of history of Serres (ERE). And complements: "The 1912, during the release, passed from the Hellenic Army and saw, for’ This and there are references for’ These. OTAN anymore in the 1930s took over the company Oylen to do projects so that the river might not fill the entire Valley, and began to clean the bed of, He found many of these marble stones. And because it was large and square, the loaded and transported elsewhere. Used to make the 1932 the basis of Kerkini dam in the village of Lithotopos».

"These stones were transported-unknown from whom, However, according to one version of the Romans- from the funerary enclosure and used in the construction of the original dam of kerkini in former Lake Achinos, which apoxiranthike the 1936. During the drying of, the Oylen the pulled out. Some found next to Lion. Others were moved farther away from where found, in the mid 1930s resulted in Lithotopos, the dam's artificial lake kerkini. Since the levees protecting of Lake "says in turn Costas Melitos, Mayor of Amphipolis.

"Where is currently about a hundred from the marbles, my peers and I remember from the 1965. Four years old I was then and up to the 1974-75, were swimming around the. We did dives beside s.’ these marbles, on the shore of the Lithotopoy dam in kerkini, Since then the waters of the Lake were spotless "remembers and the Mayor of Iraclia Serron, Kleanthis Kotsakiachidis. «

Always June-July fall the level of. Half marbles we then seemed, all the children of Lithotopoy, without knowing their origin, We played among them, pastured there and animals. This area was the threshing floor, with machinery then everyone was gathering the kritharia. "remember today.

Marbles and the new dam

On the premiership of Eleftherios Venizelos, 20 October 1928 the Greek Government-with contract comprising 35 articles, signed on behalf of Transport Minister Ant. Christomanos and Finance Minister c. Maris- commissioned in the u.s. (from New York) Monks and Oylen companies ("John Monks and Sons ' and ' Ulen and Company») to intervene in the hydrographic system of the region. To implement, i.e., appropriate land reclamation works in the plain of Serres. To settle the estuary and its tributaries of the Struma and to stabilize, After the Lake kerkini modeled only when River had been Downing too much water, When it was flooded the Plains Serron-Dramas.

In practice, in the context of the work, apostraggistikan the marshland of the plain and Lake Achinos (the once known as Kerkinitida)- until then, the main Lake of the Struma, in front of Amphipolis, occupied 80.000-140.000 acres, in the southeastern part of the serraϊkis plain. Beyond, Since then the river moved and thrown in the Lake large amounts of debris, he needed the construction of a new, the highest dam in kerkini, the elevation and expansion of embankments, so is feasible-controlled and irrigation.

In this work the Monks and Oylen manufacturers, that completed a two-year (1929-1930) the preliminary study of, used and marble cornices, uprights and stepseis from the precincts of Mound Kasta. That's because water remain unaltered as the marbles, It was the best material for the foundations-prop of the first dam in the waters of the river Strymon, next to the village Lithotopos: artificial reservoir which basically formed the Lake Kerkini, When the project was delivered ready, the 1932.

Along the way, the geography of the area changed again. This is because of the 1974 until the 1980 There were new, major land reclamation projects. Made, i.e., the new dam of Lithotopoy, to keep more waters, to irrigated kampos of Serres.

Later, in the mid-90s, next to the dam, created and the port of Lithotopoy, a floating platform-Hill to get inside the boats and protected, but also to parked cars, After you have started tourism. Done and asphalt, by Lithotopos-southwest of Kerkini, up to the village of Kerkini-Northwest, to be connected and drive, at a distance 18 km, the Lake of’ Tip s.’ edge.

The Kerkini now

Today, only one Lake lies in the Valley of Serres, in the land of ancient Strymonia: the Kerkini, to the Northwest of serraϊkis Valley, 40 kilometers from the city of Serres, about 100 from Thessaloniki. Stretched out in 80.000 acres (from the 700.000 of the plain), is the unique wetland that (the 2006) declared as a National Park.

At The Same Time, is one of the 10 Wetlands of international importance in Greece, based on the international Ramsar Convention. Owned and in the network of protected areas of the European Union "Natura 2000".

The total area of the protected area, the care which is taken from the 2002 Lake Kerkini Management body (www.kerkini.gr), arrives in 830.000 acres. There live 26 reptile species, 11 amphibian species, 44 mammalian species, 31 fish species, more from 300 bird species, at least 4.300 insect species, While some grow 1.300 plant species. Visitors and scientists get info for’ These spot, and Wetland Kerkini information center, that works in the village of kerkini.

Reportage: Peter Stefanis

Newsroom DOL

Tomb skeleton to undergo DNA testing

Athens – Greek Culture Ministry officials said the recent discovery of a skeleton buried at the Amphipolis tomb from the time of Alexander the Great will undergo DNA testing to determine his or her identity.

Experts will then proceed to the second phase, using the skeleton to reconstruct a real-life figure of the Amphipolis occupant.

University of Athens Professor of Orthodontics Manolis Papagrigorakis explains the procedure.

DPA: What can we find out about the Amphipolis skeleton through DNA testing?

Papagrigorakis: Once (DNA) is found it should be easy to determine the sex of the skeleton as well as its age, height, what it ate, the cause of death and even the colour of his or her hair and eyes. The DNA material can also show whether the person died from a disease, was killed in battle or suffered an accident.

DPA: How long does this normally take?

Papagrigorakis: It varies from six months to a year.

DPA: Will experts be able to compare the DNA material with samples belonging to Alexander the Great's father, Phillip II, to determine whether they were related?

Papagrigorakis: This will be very difficult to do because the skeleton of Alexander the Great's father was burned, so it is impossible to take DNA material from it and thus compare it with the Amphipolis skeleton. Without being able to compare genetic material it may be impossible to determine the exact identity of the Amphipolis skeleton and whether he or she was from royalty.

DPA: What is the procedure of reconstructing the face of the Amphipolis skeleton?

Papagrigorakis: First we would make a replica of the original skull using three-dimensional modeling and rapid prototyping techniques. Then we would need to place wooden markers around the skull to outline the average tissue depth based on data for people of various genders and ages. After that we would need to mould clay to form the necessary muscles around the face. The dental arch also helps to determine the position of the jaw and lips.

The features which are the hardest to reconstruct are the lips, tip of the nose and ears because we have no bone to guide us. All the soft tissues and cartilage have long since vanished. – Sapa-dpa

source: iol.co.za

THE PANARCHAIES CITIES OF 2009

The Rodolivos took its name from the words Ellinikotates and leibw or libw Rodon = rodon rainw, disgorge, spills, etc.. that is found in texts of Homer, Aeschylus, Evripidou, Plato etc.. (see. Macedonian for toponyms – (C). Abtzi). Isaac Layrentidis in his book “The en elladi egkatastasis of Pontus Greeks” (SLE. 379) He writes for the Rodoleibos that is an age-old a town known. On the Hill of Ag. Athanasios cave dwellings that seem to date back to the stone age. The name of the town center came upon delivery since the King's daughter Phyllis aleifeto with rodostagma Sithwnos, extract from Roda (Roses) that grew abundantly there. CONTINUE THE READING

An olive grove covers the theatre of Amphipolis

K. Peristeri: The ancient theatre is located in a prominent position-theater

The zero point is the investigation of the revelation of the ancient theatre of Amphipolis, for which there is only one intersection they did before 30 years ago the late archaeologist Dimitris Lazaridis.

By March 2013 has issued the joint ministerial decision of the-then- Ministers of finance and Culture, (C). Stournaras and k. Javara, for the forced expropriation of a large olive grove covering the Orchestra, However the issue is not solved, as the owner does not consent.

MS. Peristeri, in the text version of the "Decorative" about the ancient theatres of Macedonia, notes that the theatre of Amphipolis ' is located northeast of the ancient gymnasion, in a prominent Amphitheater location overlooking the estuary of the Strymon River and the mountains that surround».

The test section was from the d. Lazaridi in-depth 7-8 measures, at one point today is covered by the olive grove. The building material of the Auditorium (p. s.. spectator area with Auditoria) not saved, as was the building material all previous years, but clearly distinguished the configuration. In this he refers and the designation of the position «stairs», from where residents of Amphipolis and surrounding areas supplied by the 1920 and after plenty of building material, which was sometimes saleable item for the owner of the area.

Archaeologists however do not exclude part of seats to lie under the trees, While they feel sure the trees have covered the Orchestra, which survives in great depth with possibly some of the first rows of seats. Suggest after the expropriation of the olive grove, to make remote sensing, in order to identify what part of the ancient theatre is saved and what tasks are required for the emergence of.

As stated by Ms. Peristeri, "with the disclosure of the Orchestra and rows of seats, could become a satisfactory effort to represent the ancient theater».

Source: M. Ritzaleoy, Nation

Two strangers in the same excavation

The Jamie's strained relations with the Ministry of culture, Peristeri

Katerina I. Anesti

Rarely seen Lina Mendoni showing the irritation of. Letting innuendo inside a packed auditorium with reporters, archaeologists, University professors.

But, the marathon presentation of Group of Amphipolis and excavation, mainly, some placements of archaeologist Katerina Peristeri caused the irritation of c. c. the Ministry of culture. And testified that the relations between the political leadership of the Ministry and the head of the excavation in the tumulus of Amphipolis is not optimal…

And it's not just the fact that Lina Mendoni literally swooped around the Bulletin Board expressing frustration about some questions "and answers», as said. Extra, corrected the excavator with some mistakes of ' to fatigue ', He spoke extensively about the skeleton, for whom Ms. Peristeri has not wanted to talk, While made a revelation that sounded like a small bomb at the Auditorium.

And while the previous months by the Ministry in any way and tone had erected a wall for defence of Katerina orymagdo from the declarations of Peristeri, appraisals, comments made by some members of distance, in Saturday's meeting, it became clear that relations with the Lina Mendoni, but with the Anna Panagiotarea is strained. The end of the excavation and the descent in Athens have highlighted this aspect, no mood to keep up appearances.

Waiting for the envelope of Peristeri
And if it seems incredible, the excavation of great, unique in the world monument of Amphipolis, that has caused the global interest, He has "passed" by the all-powerful Central Archaeological Council (KAS). "I have asked for two months by the Lady Peristeri to prepare the folder and let us bring him to pass from the KAS», Lina Mendoni revealed, looking at the excavator that was sitting on the edge of the table.

The excavation of Amphipolis, well, has not yet systematically classified! Still considered rescue. The Secretary General explained that once revealed the Sphinxes, in August, had-for security reasons and significance- to proceed the excavation, even under the rescue. Added, of course, that there are no more arguments and excuses for further delay on designating as a systematic.

Enoploi guards and volunteers in Amphipolis
After the revelation of Sphinxes, the monument became protected by guards with guns, said Jamie Peristeri. A phrase that also rushed to fill-clarify Lina Mendoni. "What we did-as we had- was to ask the Ministry of public order and the police station of the area protection. Whether the policemen oploforoysan or not is not something with which relates the Ministry», stated after completion of the workshop the Lina Mendoni, in the presence of Minister Costas Tasoula, who had returned to the room and agree wholeheartedly with the Secretary-General.

It was however the exclamations "if possible;», "what;"they did at the outset the Lina Mendoni to intervene. When Katerina Peristeri, answering questions representative of the temporary staff of the Ministry, It was said that the excavation involved volunteers. "Architects, people who love the place and have shown great interest in the excavation ". There were no volunteers, only a girlfriend and close collaborator for years by the head of the excavation, clarified the "Iron Lady" of the Ministry of Culture.

Tell about the skeleton, tell
Katerina Peristeri firmly refused to talk about the skeleton. Indeed, even her close associate, Architect Michalis Lefantzis, When journalist spoke about «skeleton found inside and outside the tomb ", replied "you where you know this;». Response aroused sensation, Since it is known to the world audience that clearly stated in the official press release.

A distance to the communicative management of what we say and what is not revealed on the occasion of the skeleton, well. And while some time the responsible contact for Amphipolis Anna Panagiotarea, from the first series, leaned forward and told the excavator «say what you found, say», Lina Mendoni revealed everything in detail-and with reference to the controversial press release.

"As we write in the press release, the skeleton found snatches inside and outside of the burial trench. So the skull found at some distance from the trench. Just out from the trench – say exactly why this obviously happened to be present, I wasn't when I found the skull – found the jowl, the mandible. Inside the excavation found the bulk of skeletal remains, that if anyone noticed the bones sees that has large leg bones and the bones of the hands, has side, has parts of the spine and pelvis, which by falling over stones is in a very fragmentary condition so as not to allow archaeologists to say if you can synthesize female or male pelvis, why this is. If there are holes which are in female skeletons. The hole may not be recognized by archaeologist nor either of the architect or the engineer, just because the basin is broken into many pieces. It is dismembered. Removed, as Mrs Peristeri, and what can I say, because I saw at least some process, with the soils and bones, for the very simple reason if the modern genetic material, i.e. If the workers ' hands, the archaeologists, my own that I was there or the photographer touched this material, will automatically exafanizan or disrupt information which can rescue the Earth despite the bad conditions and despite the moisture all these clearly have created problems in skeletal material ".

Only General Secretary, No archaeologist

Immediately after the completion of the workshop, and while reporters besieged Lina Mendoni asking for clarifications or expressing concerns for some data-dating, who and why did katachwsi, can the skeleton does not belong to the official dead, but in tymbwrycho- the Secretary General stubbornly refused to place.

Elege I here I can't speak as archaeologist, but only as General Secretary not to insist ". It was clear, however, that for a number of issues has clear terms, Maybe a different approach from the hitherto dominant – with research course now begins to draw conclusions. Our harkened back to the texts, however, the ethnic Greeks Diwna, the history of which is one of the most important sources of Roman times about who and why did the internal Earth.

The Peristeri Afanti
"Where's Jamie Peristeri;». The question sounded constantly after the workshop, and as reporters besieging Dimitri Lefantzi. "Efyge», was the answer. Had to prevent the flight of. "So you said;», She queried the Anna Panagiotarea.

They had spent five hours in a Conference that probably was early. An archeological Trek, a journey to Amphipolis without pervasive glances and about the findings. And if it wasn't in the room great archaeologists who have questions, We wouldn't have and the "news" of the day: finding coins and pottery items count.

Source: iefimerida.gr

Memorial Burial Mound excavations Kasta Amphipolis (2012-2014)

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AUDITORIUM YPPOA 29/11/2014

"Memorial Burial Mound excavations Kasta Amphipolis (2012-2014)»
Katerina Peristeri, Head of excavation and Head of the Inspectorate of Antiquities Serron.
===================================================
"You know very well that the most difficult beginning. The study will give us the lessons we all wait», mentioned at the beginning of the presentation by the head of excavations in the Tumulus Kasta.

«Amphipolis is a valuable archaeological site from the 50s with the excavations of the late Lazaridi. Then iron age tombs were uncovered and archaic era. It is a part of the hill that is embedded in the Tumulus. CONTINUE THE READING

Ραδιοφωνική συνέντευξη της κ. Peristeri

Αποκαλύψεις στη δημοσιογράφο κ. Tapaskoy

Amphipolis Press Conference: Archaeologists reveal new secrets of ancient tomb at Kasta Hill

The Greek archaeological and research team who have spent the past few months excavating the enormous tomb of Amphipolis in northern Greece, have given their first complete presentation of the excavation results at the Ministry of Culture in Athens, revealing new fascinating information about this monumental discovery.

Kasta Hill lies in what was once the ancient city of Amphipolis, conquered by Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great, in 357 BC. Experts have known about the existence of the burial mound in Amphipolis, located about 100km northeast of Thessaloniki, since the 1960s, but work only began in earnest there in 2012, when archaeologists discovered that Kasta Hill had been surrounded by a nearly 500-meter wall made from marble.

Damage to the marble wall

Lead archaeologist Katerina Peristeri has now revealed that only 80 meters worth of marble has been recovered from the 500-meter perimeter, as much of it had been plundered in the past, with some of it being used to make roads and dams, and other pieces taken for the construction of local buildings and houses. Parts of an old crane were also found, probably once used to lift the marble from the wall. In the early 1900s, another tragedy had occurred – the British Army, who had been posted to the region in 1915, attempted to take much of the marble, as well as the Lion of Amphipolis statue back to Britain. They were stopped by an attack from the Bulgarians and Austrians, and pieces of marble were left scattered in a 5 kilometer radius around Kasta Hill.

he Kasta Hill burial mound

Left: The Kasta Hill burial mound. Source: Amfipoli News. Right: The 500-meter long wall made from marble and limestone surrounds the enormous burial mound. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture

Earlier this year, archaeologists discovered a path and 13 steps leading down from the surrounding wall. It was then that they uncovered a limestone wall protecting and concealing the entrance of the tomb of Amphipolis. Behind the wall, archaeologists revealed two marble sphinxes, both headless and missing their wings, but these were recovered during excavations. Bit by bit, the grand tomb began revealing the secrets that had lain hidden for 2,300 years. “We knew we had to return there and solve the mystery of the hill,” said Peristeri in yesterdays press conference.

Outside the tomb, researchers discovered the engraved Greek letters "E" and "A", which architect Michael Lefantzis said are typical of that specific era. He also stressed that the letters are not name initials, they are related to the construction work of the era.

Looting and vandalism

New research has revealed that the vast tomb had been open to the public in antiquity, leading to looting and damage by the invading Romans. Sealing walls at the tomb were constructed during the Roman era to keep vandals and looters away, but much damage had already been done. This has made it difficult to immediately identify the owner of the tomb, as many artifacts that would been buried alongside the individual, and would have helped with identification, are missing.

"It is certain there was damage and plundering in ancient times as it was a large monument that people could visit,"said Peristeri.

Two marble sphinxes guard the entrance to the Amphipolis tomb

Two marble sphinxes guard the entrance to the Amphipolis tomb. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture.

Discoveries inside the tomb chambers

In the first chamber of the tomb, archaeologists made a major discovery – two beautifully carved marble caryatids (sculpted female figures serving as architectural supports taking the place of a column or a pillar), measuring 3.7 meters in height, including the base. The caryatids are wearing a sleeved tunic and earrings, and feature long, curly hair covering their shoulders. The right arm of the western caryatid and the left arm of the eastern one are both outstretched, as if to symbolically stop anyone attempting to enter the grave. The face of one of the sculptures survives almost intact, while the other one is missing. Archaeologists have now been able to determine that the face was damaged when a beam fell down from the chamber ceiling in the past.

The caryatids

The caryatids. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture

As they entered the second chamber of the tomb, more spectacles awaited – a magnificent mosaic which covers the entire floor area and depicting a well-known scene. The mural shows the abduction of Persephone, daughter of Zeus and Demeter and goddess of agriculture and fertility, by Hades/Pluto. A mural representing the exact same scene was discovered in the tomb of Philip II, Alexander the Great's father.

Amphipolis mosaic depicting the abduction of Persefonis

Amphipolis mosaic depicting the abduction of Persefonis. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture

Coins and pottery

Archaeologists have now revealed that they had also found coins and pottery inside the chambers, dating back to between the 4th and 2nd centuries BC, along with two marble shields that are believed to have been part of the lion sculpture that once stood at the top of Kasta Hill. Some of the coins show the face of Alexander the Great.

The burial vault

In the third chamber, archaeologists found a hidden vault in the floor that had been sealed with limestone. It contained human remains inside a sarcophagus. The skeleton had once been inside a wooden coffin (now disintegrated), which had been sealed with iron and bronze nails. Bone and glass decorative elements and skeletal remains were found both within and outside the limestone sarcophagus.

The limestone burial vault

The limestone burial vault. Credit: Greek Ministry of Culture

The remains are now being examined by experts and results may not be available for several months yet. Peristeri said that the identity of the skeleton is still unknown, but certainly belongs to an important figure.

“We have no clear clues on the identity of the buried person based on the sculpture of the Lion which stood on top of the hill and the other architectural finds,"said Lefantzis. "We do know that the dead was a prominent figure…In my opinion he was a warrior.”

While Peristeri appears to be hedging her bets on a Macedonian General of Alexander the Great's army, due to the lion that once stood atop the burial mound, she also referred to the fact that in the past, the burial mound was known to locals as "The Tomb of the Queen".

Nevertheless, Peristeri refused to be drawn into a debate on the possible identity of the skeleton found inside the tomb at the press conference. “I cannot tell who was buried or not buried at the tomb. Be patient and our search will give you answers,” she concluded.

Geophysical scans of Kasta Hill have revealed that there may be much more lying hidden within the enormous burial mound, and archaeologists have announced that more excavations may begin in the near future.

– See more at: http://www.ancient-origins.net/comment/6755#sthash.f0ftukuo.dpuf

Have they found Alexander the Great's tomb?

Or maybe his mother: Greek archaeologists increasingly convinced mystery tomb hides a sensational secret

The tomb is situated in the Amphipolis region of Serres in Greece
Its huge burial site is said to date back between 325 and 300 BC
This means it could have been built during the reign of Alexander the Great
Archaeologists have now entered the third chamber of the tomb
It is unknown if anything lies beyond the third chamber
Two sculpted female figures, known as Caryatids, have been found plus sphinxes, which are both intended to guard one of the tomb's entrances
Experts hope it holds the remains of a senior ancient official

By Sarah Griffiths for Million

Speculation about who the mysterious ancient tomb recently unearthed in Greece belongs to continues, with one academic now suggesting Alexander the Great's mother was buried there.

A number of scholars believe that the presence of female figures, known as caryatids, show that the tomb in the Amphipolis region of Serres belongs to a female.

However, one expert has gone as far as to state that he believes that archaeologists could eventually discover the remains of Alexander the Great's parent, Olympias, inside.

A number of scholars believe that the presence of female figures, known as caryatids (pictured) show that the tomb in the Amphipolis region of Serres belongs to a female – probably Alexander the Great's mother, Olympias

WHAT ARE CARYATIDS?

Caryatids are sculptures of females that take the place of a column to support a building.

They are a distinctive feature in Ancient Greek architecture and famously hold up the Erechtheion on the Acropolis in Athens.

Their elaborate hairstyles provide support to their necks that would otherwise be too thin and weak to support a heavy load.

The Caryatids in the Greek tomb are made of marble and support an inner entrance into the burial plot.

They feature the same sculpting technique used for the heads and wings of two sphinxes found guarding the main entrance of the tomb last month.

Writer Andrew Chugg, who has published a book on the search for the legendary leaders tomb, as well as several academic papers, put forward his controversial argument in The Greek Reporter.

He argues that sphinxes guarding the tomb are decorated in a similar way to those found in the tombs of two queens of Macedon, including the kings grandmother.

In Greek mythology, Hera, the wife of Zeus, is depicted as the mistress of the sphinx. As the Macedonian kings of at the time of Alexander identified themselves with Zeus, Mr Chugg thinks their queens may have been associated with the mythical creature.

He goes on to explain that the sphinxes guarding the tomb are most similar to a pair at Saqqara, which is thought to be the site of the first tomb of Alexander the Great – whose body, it is thought, was moved around after his death.

He also points out that the facades of the tombs of Alexander the Great's father, Philip III and Alexander IV, are similar to the façade of the lion monument found, which was thought to have originally stood atop the mystery tomb.

In addition to this there are also similarities between the Serres paving and rosettes and those found inside Phillip I's.

An expert listed a number of features such as caryatids and sphinxes that indicate the tomb belongs to a woman. He thinks it was most likely built for Alexander the Great's mother because the caryatid female figures are probably Klodones – the priestess of Dionysus. A close-up of their sandals are pictured

With all this, he believes the grand burial was built for Olympias or Alexander the Great's wife, Roxane, who are both thought to have died at Amphipolis around the same time as the tomb's construction in the last quarter of the 4th century BC.

Mr Chugg thinks it was most likely built for Olympias because the caryatid female figures are probably Klodones – the priestess of Dionysus.

Greek writer Plutarch said in a biography about Alexander the Great that his mother consorted with the priestess.

In it, he writes that Philip II dreamt that he closed Olympia's womb with a lion seal, which perhaps explains the lion statue thought to have been placed on top of the mysterious burial mound.

Experts have previously suggested that the tomb belongs to one of the kings officials. There are hopes that despite looting, a body may still remain inside the burial mound.

Details of a sculpted female figure, known as a Caryatid, is seen inside a site of an archaeological excavation at the town of Amphipolis, in northern Greece on the left and feathers can be seen on one of the two large stone sphinxes (pictured right) which sit beneath a barrel-vault topping the entrance to its main chamber

Here, archaeologists work outside a site of the tomb in Amphipolis, in northern Greece

Following months of excavation, a team of researchers has made their way into the third chamber of what is been dubbed Alexander the Great's tomb, in the Amphipolis region of Serres. Access was possible through a wall that was only recently uncovered (pictured)

During the most recent excavations, archaeologists have discovered fragments of a broken marble door which lead to the third chamber of the tomb .

They have also discovered iron and bronze nails as well as a large hinge.

They say that the evidence follows the standard form of a Macedonian tomb, Greekreporter.com reported.

Experts believe the ancient mound, situated around 65 miles (100km) from Thessaloniki, was built for a prominent Macedonian in around 300 to 325BC.

Access to the third chamber was made possible after experts unearthed two sculpted female figures, known as Caryatids, last week.

WHY MIGHT THE TOMB BELONG TO OLYMPIAS?

Expert Andrew Chugg thinks that the sphinxes are similar to some found in the tomb of Alexander the Great's grandmother.
He thinks that queens of the time were associated with the mythical animals.
The sphinx statues are also similar to a pair at Saqqara, which is thought to be the site of the first tomb of Alexander the Great, before his body was moved.
The lion which was once top the burial mound has a similar façade to the tomb of Alexander the Great's father, Philip II.
This evidence suggests the burial was built for Olympias or Alexander the Great's wife, Roxanne who both died in the last quarter of the 4th century BC when the tomb was built.
Mr Chugg thinks it was for Olympias because the caryatid female figures are probably Klodones – the priestess of Dionysus.
A story by Greek writer Plutarch that Olympia's womb was closed by a lion seal – perhaps explaining the connection with the lion statue.

By removing a large volume of soil, behind the wall bearing the two sculpted female figures, they were able to uncover the next chamber.

Until now, experts had only partially investigated the antechamber of the tomb and uncovered a marble wall concealing one or more inner chambers.

During initial observations, the archaeologists found that the level of sandy soil in the third chamber is lower than in the previous two chambers.

The dome structure has been weakened, as a result of losing a large amount of earth, and the researchers found the arched dome of the third chamber is on the verge of collapse, due to ' deep and extensive cracks’ on either side.

Before the discovery of the Caryatids, it was feared the ' incredibly important ' tomb dating to the time of Alexander the Great had been plundered in antiquity.

Archaeologists said that a hole in the decorated wall, and signs of forced entry, indicated it had been looted.

But the discovery of the female sculptures gave fresh hope that some treasure may have survived, after all.

The Caryatids are made of marble and support an inner entrance into the tomb.

They feature the same sculpting technique used for the heads and wings of two sphinxes found guarding the main entrance of the tomb last month.

' The structure of the second entrance with the Caryatids is an important finding, which supports the view that it is a prominent monument of great importance,' the Culture Ministry said.

The face of one of the Caryatids is missing, while both figures have one hand outstretched in a symbolic move to push away anyone who would try to violate the tomb.

Archaeologists have said that the Amphipolis site appears to be the largest ancient tomb ever discovered in Greece at 1, 935ft (590m) wide.

Two months ago, pictures emerged of a pair of sphinxes guarding the grave's main entrance beneath a large arch and experts said that most of the earth around the mythical creatures had been removed to reveal part of a marble lintel with frescoes.

Chief archaeologist Katerina Peristeri said that the monument being uncovered is a unique tomb, not just for Greece but for the entire Balkanic peninsula, and described it as being of ' global interest '.

During initial observations, archaeologists found that the dome structure (pictured) has been weakened, as a result of losing a large amount of earth, and the researchers found the arched dome of the third chamber is on the verge of collapse, due to ' deep and extensive cracks’

Archaeologists were hopeful that an ancient mound in northern Greece could hold the remains of a senior official from the time of Alexander the Great. They discovered that its entrance is guarded by a pair of sphinxes (pictured) but last month warned that signs of forced entry indicate it was plundered in antiquity

WHO WAS ALEXANDER THE GREAT?

Alexander (statue pictured) was born in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia in July 356 BC, and died of a fever in Babylon in June 323 BC

Alexander III of Macedon was born in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia in July 356 BC.

He died of a fever in Babylon in June 323 BC.

Alexander led an army across the Persian territories of Asia Minor, Syria and Egypt claiming the land as he went.

His greatest victory was at the Battle of Gaugamela, now northern Iraq, in 331 BC, and during his trek across these Persian territories, he was said to never have suffered a defeat.

This led him to be known as Alexander the Great.

Following this battle in Gaugamela, Alexander led his army a further 11,000 miles (17,700km), founded over 70 cities and created an empire that stretched across three continents.

This covered from Greece in the west, to Egypt in the south, Danube in the north, and Indian Punjab to the East.

Alexander was buried in Egypt.

His fellow royals were traditionally interred in a cemetery near Vergina, far to the west.

The lavishly-furnished tomb of Alexander's father, Philip II, was discovered during the 1970s.

Prime Minister Antonis Samaras added the discovery ' is clearly extremely important '.

Alexander, who started from the northern Greek region of Macedonia to build an empire stretching as far as India, died in 323 B.C. and was buried in Egypt.

His fellow royals were traditionally interred in a cemetery near Vergina, to the west, where the lavishly-furnished tomb of Alexander's father, Philip II, was discovered during the 1970s.

But archaeologists believe the Amphipolis grave, which is surrounded by a surprisingly long and well-built wall with courses of marble decorations, may have belonged to a senior ancient official.

Dr Peristeri argued the mound was originally topped by a large stone lion that was unearthed a century ago, and is now situated around 3 miles (5km) from the excavation site.

Greece culture ministry said that earth around the sphinx statues has been removed to reveal part of a marble lintel with frescoes (pictured) but hopes of finding further treasures now seem to be slim

The tomb is situated in Amphipolis region of Serres in Greece (marked). Archaeologists believe the grave may have belonged to a senior ancient official. While it looks largely undisturbed, there are fears that looting took place hundreds of years ago

THE GREEK SPHINX

In Greek tradition, the mythical sphinx has the haunches of a lion, sometimes with the wings of a great bird, and the face of a human – usually a woman.

It was described by writers as being treacherous and merciless.

In many myths, including Oedipus, those who could not answer a riddle posed by the monster, would be killed and eaten.

The sphinx described by the Ancient Egyptians was usually male and more benevolent.

In both cultures, they often guarded entrances to temples and important tombs.

The oldest sphinx found guarding a site was discovered in Turkey and dates to 9,500 BC.

Geophysical teams have identified there are three main rooms within the huge circular structure.

In the past, the lion has been associated with Laomedon of Mytilene, one of Alexander's military commanders who became governor of Syria after the kings death.

A paper sponsored by Harvard University that was published 70 years ago hints that this might be the case and that Laomedon worked as a language interpreter and sentry during the kings Asian campaigns, Greekreporter.com said.

The historian Diogenes Laertius said that Laomedon was banished by Alexander the Great's father, Philip II but returned to Macedonia when Alexander took the throne.

After governing a province in Syria after Alexander's death, he was captured by Nicanor when the empire broke up.

The story goes that he managed to escape to Caria, where he was promised the city of Amphipolis. So if his remains – or evidence that the final resting place is his – are found in the tomb, it could play a role in proving tales of the past.

' The excavation will answer the crucial question of who was buried inside,' Mr Samaras said.

Archaeologists who fear that few treasures and clues to its owner may remain in the tomb, said that part of a stone wall that blocked off the subterranean entrance was found to be missing, while the sphinxes, which were originally six feet (two metres) high, lack heads and wings.

THE PILGRIMAGE IN AUGUST, CAESAR'S IN TAFO ALEXANDRE

p. b. t he following text is from the novel by Philipp Vandenberg “The secret diaries of Augustus Caesar” and in any case is not some some historical source or historic event,as wrongly presented to various websites on the Internet. the publication is done purely on literary value.

From "The secret diaries of Augustus Caesar Parchment No.. LXXXIX

O Augustus Caesar,indicate the following:
"I want to start from the beginning, ever since man encountered the avatar, as they say, and the Greeks, the image of the blind worship. We Romans have borrowed this word, like many others who were missing, and many of us looking for the mirrored in those who lent us this word. I am no exception and I'd say lying if you say that the legendary my father, Gaius Julius Caesar, whom I love, was avatar for me in my early years.

Not the idols we love, but we respect and admire, and I admired the Great Macedon, Alexander. I felt more akin to that, Despite the Gaϊo, not by blood, but in the soul and character, and all situations encountered in his life. Even today I shudder when I think then that I had been elected Consul for the fifth time I met my great idol the relic of IE, stuffed with herbs according to the Ptolemaic Dynasty art, in such a way that it looked like he was sleeping tired from their conquests throughout the world.
Augustus Caesar venerates the mummy of Alexander in 30BC by Showmer
In this and only this owes the people of Alexandria that after my victory in Aktio not destroyed their town, as deserved, that I respected the Palace of Antony and Cleopatra and not gkremisa. Not, No I did. Even if revenge would mean justice, I showed real compassion for the sake of Alexander the great who had founded this city on the Western banks of the Nile, without negotiations, but with determination, After I threw the cloak of the sand and designed with the sword of the perimeter, the streets and houses- nine other cities already carry the name of. When I arrived in his grave, It is made from red marble, I gave a mandate to lift the heavy plate and had my Idol, that looked like a statue of Lysippus, full of admiration and awe. I was then just 33 years, at the age they died, Alexander.

Alexander I'll never forget the look of. This great man, clean shaven, seemed to be smiling, a smile of satisfaction that showed that he knew well what he had accomplished, proud and conscious, ναι, even smug and superior. With this smile dies only a man who has cut with the sword of the Gordian knot, instead of looking to find the beginning and end of the rope, a man who goes into the desert to find the Jupiter Ammon to confirm the divine origin and the right of power, a guy who basically did not know any opponent except himself. Then I didn't want nothing more than to die and I sometime in the Great Macedon- with a smile etched on my face.

I spent endless hours so, to look, so that my companions pushed impatient to see and other dead Ptolemies, you lying there on 300 years, metamorphic in mummies. I said my mates urgently fools that what I wanted to see I was a King, and no other corpses. For’ This and refused to visit the Api, After the Romans used to worship the gods and not bulls.

So, well, the completely brainless mob kicked and none of the silly words could not change my opinion. With the flame to the torch trizobolaei, Bantam periergazomoyna the guy. As I do so, and Alexander was short, which justifies those who claim that the small men are destined for something big, After all their energy shares in a compact body. And as I, so Alexander wrote to his mother in secret letters. It Was Called Olympiad, had the same passion with her Eyes and it is said that Zeus Ammwnas slept with her, taking the form of the serpent.

And as I, and so the great Macedonian scorned the sports where taking part dynamic athletes, and show greater love for philosophy. Loved as Aristotle as his father and the tragedies of Aeschylus, of Euripides and Sophocles, While he slept he kept under his pillow the Iliad of Homer, next to the sword of. And as I had always envied the Horatio for his luck to "sculpts" words and indifferent to money and fame, so Alexander saw another of ego in a wise. When he went to Corinth said to cynical Diogenes that will fulfill any grace of asking. Then he asked him to go a little adjacent to not hide the Sun, not like nothing else.

These words very much liked to Alexander, with pride and greatness of soul- Nobody can understand it better than me- He said for the philosopher: "if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes '. Luxury, said Alexander- and s.’ This also agree absolutely- makes the slave and servant, being King is the hardest task. Therefore condemned men who like on luxuries and material goods, as the Agnonas, He wanted to have silver nails in the soles of, or the Leonato asked to carry sand from Egypt to play sports, or Filota who commanded to construct nests in 100 stages can hunts. They were more patient than me, Why can scorned the akolasti behavior, but not adopted any law, as I did I, to stop.

So, Alexander the great taught me patience. Taught me that without patience, the ground Strip crops not working. And if I look behind me, the 76 years of my life, I find no trace of patience- and if somewhere vaguely discerned, I can't say it was patience, but tolerance, Unfortunately. I never learned archery, where aristeye Alexander, or to jump from the chariot, as he did when the Broncos were running in the Woods. Even, not hunting foxes. This, of course, was due and my health, that from very early forced me to stay inside the House, Nevertheless, though, with the help of my doctor, the Muse, I arrived in old age.

I, the Imperator Caesar Divi Filius Augustus, and Alexander the great, I feared nothing more than the importance of omens and oracles. It is not surprising; Suffice a nod, a line that was pulling our hand with the pen, and folks dying, countries burned out and rivers were changing their flow. And yet, suffice a sudden thunderbolt to kryftw on my mantle, While Alexander had his mug. Alexander had around him men from Babylon, I of Egypt, why I believe in the stars, but I do not know the laws that with so much wisdom determine their orbit. And if the sign was for him a source of, suddenly jetted water to the point that he had set up the tent of, on his way to India, for me it was a pigeon that assured me that I will come back healthy. The two omens said the truth, I must confess, because at that time there was a lot of holding and confusion around the explanation of points that sent the gods….

* My blood froze when I saw. I wanted to put on the legs, but a mysterious strength kept me pinned there. I don't remember anymore how long it lasted, until I pulled out two guards. None of the priests was unable to say whether this was a bad omen that someone sent me the gods, after something like that hasn't happened before and it felt meaningless.

What I was thinking while I stand in front of the deceased Alexander and I wanted to bid farewell to greet someone as, lying and that at the end of his life, a good friend. So, look out, the kissed on the forehead and caressed However, from the big thrill, I looked careless and stumbled on the sarcophagus of Alexander the great. Not to fall I stretched my left hand and accidentally felt his nose. You broke like glass in many pieces and figure out what had happened, I saw that in point before the nose of, echaske now a hole.

Believe me, everything I write is true and while I tried to close the eyes and to erase the image that I had seen, It was impossible. This image follows me like a shadow and constantly find in front of me: a black hole in the head of Alexander, not a wound that sometime shuts, not. Then I looked, like today, like spoiled with my own hands him the divine man- my own avatar».

*The broken nose on the mummy of Alexander describes and Cassius Dio, Book 51, 16, 5.
PHILIPP VANDENBERG: "AUGUST,
The Secret Diaries», Versions Konidari-Athens, 2004.