Alexander the Great Tour
Alexander is one of the greatest figures in history - the history of Greece and of the world. He enjoys a place in the affections of all who live or have lived in any of the lands he conquered, admired not just for his exploits on the battlefield, but also for the light of civilisation which he brought in the wake of his military conquests.
The excursion starts from Thessaloniki to Pella, the second ancient capital of Macedonia and birthplace of Alexander the Great.
Pella, founded by King Archelaos who had built the magnificent palace, being situated at the riverside of Ludias, that was once navigable, was developed into an important port. Euripides was at Pella to see his plays produced and performed there and Aristotle was appointed to educate young Alexander. We start our visits here first with The Archaeological Museum. Being small but very important, due to its rich collection of clay figurines, the classical black and red figured vases, the pebble floor mosaics and the fine reconstruction of the interior architectural part of Greek house with its stucco decoration.
Continue further to the Archaeological Site
visiting the excavations with the huge Greek houses bearing the central courtyards and being surrounded by big rooms, walk along the streets facing the shops of the big market and admire the still existing floor mosaics.
Proceed to Veria to visit the Church Of The Christ from the 14th a.d. and continue further for a short visit at St. Pauls Tribune where the 3 steps in situ and the modern mosaic. Lunch will be served in Veria over viewing the immense valley of river Aliakmon.
The highlight of the tour is our visit to Vergina, the first ancient capital of the Greek Macedonian Kingdom. Upon arrival, visit the Royal tombs with the most important being that of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, as well as viewing the newly opened exhibition which contains findings discovered in the tombs. Marvel at superb painting of the King, his famous son and friends hunting, all of which can be seen through a protective glass covering.
Literally underground, make your way inside, accompanied by your quide and feast your eyes on some of the most important objects, which once belonged to Philip II – the King’s shield adorned with ivory and gold the King’s gold- trimmed iron breast plate, Gold Diadems of unparalleled craftsmanship, the Golden Wreath of oak leaves, the gold plated collar and the Silver Burial Ums. Listen carefully, as your quide explains how inside the tomb of King Philip, a Golden Chest was discovered, containing the King’s bones, washed with wine and wrapped in purple cloth. After this very interesting visit, return to your motorcoach and be taken directly back to Thessaloniki.
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