It was the insight and perseverance of Manolis Andronikos which led to the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, being discovered in 1977. Archaeologists believe that Aegae, the capital of Lower Macedonia, was in this area. As you stroll around the excavated area you can admire the palace of the ancient city and the necropolis, dotted with burial mounds known as tumuli. The most important relics are those found in the Tomb of Philip, which had not been looted or disturbed before they were excavated. The building was built into the second basement, so that the humidity and heat were controlled and therefore the frescoes were maintained in good condition. From the outside the building looks like an earthen mound, but, since November 1997, the treasures found in the royal tombs have been on display here. You will see a representation of the Great Tumulus, the monument that marked the position of the royal tombs, and which no longer exists.
Some of the items which stand out among the exhibits:
- The famous golden larnax (chest), which weighs 11 kilos. The bones of the dead king were placed here.
- The oak wreath, the most precious crown of Greek antiquity. It is made up of 313 leaves and 68 acorns.
- The golden larnax (chest) with the bones of the queen and the two ivory burial beds.
- The Tomb III, which probably belongs to Alexander IV, son of Alexander the Great, and Roxana, who was murdered by Cassander in 310 BC.
Opening hours Monday: 12:00 - 20: 00, Tuesday - Sunday: 8:00 - 20: 00. Tel. +30 23310 92 347.