Dion
The sacred city of the ancient Macedonians
Archaeological Site of Dion
A journey through time in the sacred city of ancient Macedonians
The archaeological site of Dion, located 13 kilometers from Katerini and 90 kilometers from Thessaloniki, is an enchanting journey through time. It takes you back to the era when Dion was the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians and later, during its Roman period, when it reached its peak. A multitude of findings and successive images from the illustrious past of the ancient city await visitors on a walk of approximately 4.5 kilometers amidst beautiful landscapes alternating with vegetation, aquatic elements, and the memories uncovered by archaeological research.
The most beautiful Archaeological Park in Greece offers you the opportunity to walk on the paved central road, measuring 670 meters, following in the footsteps of the ancient inhabitants of Dion from millennia ago. You can explore the fortification of the city, see the houses and public buildings, the baths and thermal baths, and visit the Hellenistic and Roman theaters, and the stadium. Learn about the religious practices of the ancients through the discovered sanctuaries, such as those dedicated to Olympian Zeus, Demeter, Asclepius, Zeus Hypsistos, and Isis. Admire the magnificent Villa of Dionysus and the famous mosaic. Finally, conclude your stroll with a visit to the well-maintained and rich Archaeological Museum located near the Park.
A distinctive feature of the site is the placement of statues in the natural environment, giving the impression that they emerge from the lush vegetation or the water, such as the ancient river Vafyras, which was once navigable and connected Dion to the sea.
Sanctuary of Isis at Dion
The temple of worship for the Egyptian goddess in the sacred city of the Macedonians
Among the invaluable archaeological treasures revealed in the excavations at the Archaeological Park of Dion, the sanctuary dedicated to Isis Lochia holds special significance. Made of four temples, it was protected from the floods of the River Vaphyras, allowing it to retain its impressive artistic and historical value almost as it was when first constructed.
The central temple, surrounded by offers of believers, remains intact. It was dedicated to Isis, whose worship originated in Egypt, and its architecture dates back to the late 2nd or early 3rd century AD. To the north, a smaller temple was dedicated to Aphrodite Hypolympidia, while to the south, another unknown temple was discovered. The fourth temple, of later construction, was dedicated to Isis Tyche, as an inscription on the altar indicates. In the center of the complex, there is a constructed basin with its sacred spring.
The archaeological site of the sacred city of ancient Macedonians is located approximately 90 kilometers from Thessaloniki and is considered one of the most beautiful and well-maintained sites in Greece.
Villa of Dionysus in Dion
One of the most important findings of the region
The Villa of Dionysus, in the archaeological park of Dionysus, is one of the most important finds of the region, offering a unique insight into ancient Greek architecture and decoration.
It dates back to the 2nd century AD and is characterized by the impressive mosaic floors that decorate its rooms. The most famous of these depicts Dionysus in procession, surrounded by satyrs and maenads, offering an excellent example of the artistic craftsmanship of the period.
The villa was excavated in the 1980s and since then it has been a major attraction for visitors to the archaeological site of Dion. Visitors can tour the grounds of the mansion and admire the impressive mosaics and architectural layout. A visit to the Manor of Dionysus offers a vivid picture of daily life and cultural expression in ancient Macedonia, making it one of the most important stops for any lover of archaeology and history.
Sanctuary of Demeter in Dion
The Oldest Sanctuary in the Archaeological Site of Dion
The Sanctuary of Demeter in Dion, located in northern Pieria, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Macedonia, dedicated to the goddess of agriculture, Demeter, and her daughter Persephone. Dating back to the 6th century BC, it is the oldest sanctuary in Dion.
Excavations at the site have uncovered important archaeological finds, such as clay statues of Demeter and Persephone, along with offerings left by worshippers. These artifacts provide evidence of the goddess’s worship in the area, closely linked to agricultural life and crop cultivation.
The sanctuary includes a small temple and several auxiliary structures, such as altars and storage areas for offerings. The simplicity of its construction reflects the Archaic period in which it was built. The Sanctuary of Demeter in Dion is a crucial monument for understanding ancient Macedonian religion and the rituals associated with fertility and agriculture.
Dionysus mosaic, Dion
The impressive 2nd-century AD mosaic with Dionysus.
The ” Dionysus mosaic ” is one of the most significant and stunning mosaics discovered in Greece. The 2nd-century artwork derived its name from the location where it was found, namely the Villa of Dionysus in the archaeological site of Dion. It was part of the overall architectural complex in its central hall, measuring approximately 100 square meters.
The mosaic depicts the god Dionysus in a commanding and triumphant pose, riding in a chariot pulled by sea panthers. The details surrounding the central depiction are exquisite, as are the contrasts of colors in the ground, waves, and the forms of humans and mythical creatures. Two panels of masks are also present above and below, depicting theatrical masks. The entire work is so finely crafted and well-preserved that it gives the impression of a painted canvas.
The “Villa of Dionysus” was discovered by the team of Professor Dimitris Pandermalis of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2002. With his consent, the mosaic was transferred to the Archaeological Museum of Dion, which was specifically built to house and protect it from natural decay.
Ancient Theater of Dion
The theater of “Olympians”
The Archaeological Park of Dion includes, in addition to important findings, the Ancient Theater, where during the Olympus Festival the ancient tragedy is revived, while other performances are held.
To the south and on the borders of the settlement of Dion, with the Sanctuary of Demeter in the west, is this unique construction of the Hellenistic era, which dates to the reign of Philip V (221-179 BC).
It is built on the slope of a natural hill, with a northeast orientation, which, according to Vitruvius, is suitable for good ventilation of the area. Construction-wise, the theater was shaped with excavation and artificial earthworks and the result of these interventions is the harmonization with the natural landscape, making it unique in its kind. After the installation of wooden stands, today it can hold 4,000 spectators.
Great Thermal Baths of Dion
The impressive Roman baths with their unique water heating system
The impressive Roman baths with their unique water heating system The “Great Baths” are one of the most remarkable finds in the Archaeological Site of Dion, continuing to awe visitors to this day. They are the Roman public baths of the ancient city, constructed in 200 AD with exceptional technological sophistication in their operation and the way water was heated or cooled. The complex included a courtyard, shops, recreational areas, and an odeon, while in the baths, visitors could enjoy either cold or hot baths. The Baths feature a water heating system called “hypocausts,” where hot air heated the chambers, floors, and walls.
The baths were the social hub of life in Dion and played a central role in the interactions of residents and visitors, as was common in Roman times. Archaeological excavations have unearthed a multitude of sculptures and statues, attesting to the special significance of the space for the inhabitants. Their location was carefully chosen to protect them from the north winds, positioned next to the southern gate of the sacred city of the Macedonians. Visitors can explore them by moving north of the main archaeological site, at a distance of less than half a kilometer.
Archaeological Museum of Dion
An Exceptional Insight into the History and Culture of Macedonia
The Archaeological Museum of Dion is located within the archaeological site of Dion, one of the most important sanctuaries of ancient Macedonia. Established in 1983, the museum houses artifacts uncovered during excavations in the Dion area and surrounding regions, offering a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Macedonia.
The museum’s collection includes objects from the prehistoric period, such as pottery, tools, and figurines, which reveal the earliest forms of settlement activity in the area. Notable exhibits feature statues and sculptures from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, including the impressive statue of Isis and statues of gods and heroes, reflecting the religious practices that flourished in Dion. The museum also displays inscriptions that shed light on the history of the region, as well as everyday items like jewelry and coins.
Additionally, the museum showcases the findings from the excavations carried out in the area, providing visitors with a comprehensive view of Dion’s historical significance.
Contact Tel: +30 23510 53206
Summer hours (from May 1 to October 31)
Monday to Sunday 8.00 – 20.00
Winter hours (from November 1 to April 30)
Tuesday to Sunday 8.30 – 15.00 (Monday closed)