Archaeological Site of Philippi
History, Theatre and Museum.
Philippi (modern village of Krinides) was founded by Thasian colonists as the city of Krinides, and in 356 BC King Philip II of Macedon renamed the city Philippi.
The area was exploited for its rich gold deposits in Mount Paggaio and was quickly fortified. During Roman times, after the Battle of Philippi (42 BC), the city became a Roman colony (Colonia Iulia Augusta Philippensis) due to its strategic location on the Via Egnatia road.
In the 2nd century AD, the Romans built the magnificent Agora with its mosaic (the work of M. Aemilianus, 161–180 AD), while the Apostle Paul visited Philippi in 49/50 AD and founded the first Christian church in Europe.
During the early Christian years (4th–6th centuries), large churches were built in the city (Octagon, dedicated to the Apostle Paul, and three three-aisled basilicas). After the 6th century, the city began to be abandoned due to earthquakes and Slavic raids. It survived as a fortress during the Byzantine period and was finally deserted after the Turkish conquest (late 14th century).
Today, the Archaeological Site of Philippi has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2016) and is one of the most important historical attractions in Kavala.
The Ancient Theatre of Philippi
The Ancient Theater of Philippi is one of the oldest in Macedonia.
Its first phase dates back to the mid-4th century BC, probably under Philip II. Initially, it had a semicircular orchestra, while under the Romans it was reinforced with a high stage structure and surrounding corridors, acquiring a fully Roman form (2nd century AD).
In the 3rd century AD, it was converted into an arena for animal fights (orchestra with marble slabs and protective wall). During late antiquity and the early Christian years, the theater was abandoned, but in later times parts of it were restored to host contemporary events.
Every summer, it hosts the International Festival of Philippi, with performances of ancient drama, music, and theatrical events, attracting thousands of visitors from all over Greece and abroad.
See the detailed programme of the festival on the official website https://dipethekavalas.gr/programma-festival/
What you will see in the Archaeological Site
On a walk through the archaeological site of Philippi, you will find rich monuments from four eras (Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Early Christian).
The walls and the acropolis
They surrounded the entire city (3.5 km) from the time of Philip II until Justinian. To the east, gates and towers remain, as well as a post-Byzantine tower at the top of the hill.
The Roman Agora (Agora of Marcus Aurelius)
A complex of public buildings, built in the early 3rd century AD by Emperor Emilianus, which served as an administrative center.
The theatre
At the foot of the hill, it was founded in the 4th century BC by Philip II. It was used for worship ceremonies, religious events, and Roman spectacles.
Today, the remains of the seats and the stage are preserved, while the theater continues to function as a performance venue.
The arena (gym)
It has a small amphitheater, training rooms, and a peristyle courtyard where Roman citizens exercised.
The Prison of the Apostle Paul
According to tradition, this is where the Apostle Paul was imprisoned – in reality, it is a Roman water cistern known as a “cisterna.”
The Octagon
A building with an octagonal temple-church dedicated to the Apostle Paul, built in three phases on the ruins of the pre-Christian house where he was martyred.
Basilicas A, B and B'
Three large three-aisled churches (5th-6th century) surrounding the Agora, with ornate floors, mosaics, pulpits and frescoes.
Archaeological Museum of Philippi
The modern Museum of Philippi (built in the 1960s) is housed on the outskirts of the archaeological site with two exhibition halls.
The exhibits of the museum shed light on the history of Philippi and the inhabitants of the area. The opening hours follow the opening hours of the archaeological site (8:00-20:00 in summer, 8:30-15:00 in winter).
Section A (ground floor)
It exhibits inscriptions, sculptures, vases, coins and jewellery from the excavations, presenting the history of the city from prehistoric times to the end of the Roman era.
Section B (floor)
It exhibits architectural elements, mosaics, vases, coins and inscriptions from the early Christian years (4th-7th centuries AD), depicting the prosperity and decline of the Christian city.
Useful information
Our hotel, Yannis Resort Hotel, is located just 2–3 km from the archaeological site and museum.
One-day trip: Philippi is ideal for a day trip. It can easily be combined with a visit to the Baptistery of St. Lydia in the Old Town of Kavala and the city of Drama.
Opening hours & tickets: The archaeological site and museum are open daily (winter and summer).
Philippi is the most important cultural tourism monument in Eastern Macedonia, where history from late antiquity to early Christian times is uniquely highlighted.
A visit to the archaeological site and the Museum of Philippi is well worth your time, as you will experience a journey through time and the historical sights of Kavala.
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