Thessaloniki: "archaeological museum" will become the metro stations Venizelo, Agia Sophia

Following the approval of the Central Archaeological Council for the studies on the protection, fixation, surface treatment, restoration and illumination of antiquities at the Agia Sophia station, as well as for the relevant electromechanical and architectural studies at the Venizelou station, the authorities stated that “a cycle of studies on the protection and illumination of antiquities discovered during the construction of two specific stations of the Thessaloniki metro is completed”:

“The Ministry of Culture and Sports is proceeding systematically and on schedule to complete an extremely complex archaeological project in the urban infrastructure of Thessaloniki, the likes of which have never been seen before. In this way, the ministry achieves not only saving valuable finds, but also highlights the exposition of antiquities, which will be put on display for visitors to the metro. Thanks to the painstaking and intensive efforts of the working group, with the coordination of the competent departments of the Ministry of Culture and Sports, we actually show respect for the past of Thessaloniki and prove it with our actions and decisions.”

The northern entrance to the Agia Sophia station of the Thessaloniki railway, with a total area of ​​820 sq.m., is located south of Makedonomachon Square and north of the station between Agia Sophia and Platonos streets.

The excavations began in April 2016, continued in 2019 and were completed in 2022, resulting in the discovery of valuable archaeological finds from late antiquity and proto-Byzantine times to post-Byzantine and newer eras.

A section of a large sigmoid-shaped paved square dating back to the 6th century was discovered, to which a monumental staircase led from the street level. In Byzantine times, the area was occupied by shops and workshops that produced ceramic, glass and metal jewelry.

The preparation of studies of antiquities at the Agia Sophia station, as well as previous studies of the same station (rearrangement of the fountain building, construction of a roof to protect the antiquities, placement of an observation corridor and a descent ladder to the level of antiquities for their maintenance and arrangement of the adjacent territory) became the subject of a wide working a group with the participation of five competent departments of the Ministry of Antiquities of Thessaloniki and scientists involved from outside.

The “long-suffering” subway of Thessaloniki, as the authorities promise, will start functioning in April 2024. Recall that its construction began back in 2006: (interesting facts from minute 2:20)

Source link