A joint Greek-Chinese archaeological mission has uncovered new evidence of a monumental building at ancient Arsinoe in western Greece.
The discovery was made during the first season of a five-year programme investigating the ancient settlement at Angelokastro in Aitoloakarnania.
The project, running from 2026 to 2030, is being conducted by the Greek Ministry of Culture, the Chinese School of Classical Studies at Athens and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Aitoloakarnania and Lefkada.
Monumental building with a peristyle courtyard
Archaeologists focused their investigations at the site of Kakavaria, where previous excavations had uncovered architectural remains associated with ancient Arsinoe.
The latest campaign expanded earlier excavation areas to further document the surviving structures and investigate how this part of the settlement was organised.
Of particular interest is a large square building partially excavated during previous investigations by archaeologist Lazaros Kolonas.
New evidence indicates that the structure was carefully constructed around a peristyle courtyard – an open courtyard surrounded by a covered colonnade or portico.
Archaeologists also identified evidence of rebuilding and successive phases of occupation, indicating that the structure underwent modifications during its period of use.
According to the Greek Ministry of Culture, the building has architectural similarities with structures identified elsewhere in Aitoloakarnania, including at the ancient city of Kalydon.
The precise function and chronology of the building have yet to be determined, with further excavation and analysis expected during subsequent seasons.
Finds from ancient Arsinoe
Excavations also yielded a range of archaeological material, including roof tiles, ceramic architectural elements, pottery vessels, bronze coins and animal remains.
The finds are currently undergoing conservation and study, which will help archaeologists establish their identification and chronology and provide further evidence for the activities that took place within the building.
Future investigations will extend beyond conventional excavation to examine the wider organisation of ancient Arsinoe.
The five-year programme will include research into the settlement’s fortifications, alongside geophysical prospection, remote sensing, field surveys and geoarchaeological studies.
Together, these investigations are expected to provide a clearer picture of the urban development and history of ancient Arsinoe.
Sources : Greek Ministry of Culture
