The Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, accompanied by the Mayor of Thessaloniki, Stelios Angeloudis, conducted an on-site inspection at the archaeological site of Toumba in Thessaloniki, in order to be briefed by the excavators—Professors Stelios Andreou and Sevi Triantafyllou of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki—on the progress of the university’s excavation, the significant archaeological remains that have been uncovered and their state of preservation, as well as the prospects for showcasing the site.

Archaeological Research at Toumba

Systematic archaeological research at Toumba has been conducted by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki since 1984 and continues to this day. In accordance with the current institutional framework, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki bears scientific responsibility for the excavation and will proceed with the completion of the necessary conservation studies, site protection measures, and scientific documentation of the findings. At the same time, the Ministry of Culture will immediately begin, in 2026, the necessary procedures for preparing studies on the protection, enhancement, and revitalization of the archaeological site and Toumba Hill.

Toumba Archaeological Site, Thessaloniki

The archaeological site includes the hill and the surrounding “terrace,” located approximately 2 km from the historic center of Thessaloniki. Toumba was designated an archaeological site in 1990. The archaeological strata of the hill date from the Bronze Age to the early Hellenistic period, while tombs from the Middle Byzantine period have also been identified at the summit. More than 40 excavation pits have been investigated, revealing important information about the organization, architecture, and chronological development of the prehistoric settlement. Toumba constitutes an important unbuilt archaeological core within the dense urban fabric of Thessaloniki. Its location and the panoramic view from the top of the hill offer significant opportunities to highlight and enhance the site’s role in the city, in a way that combines the protection of antiquities with access for residents and visitors.

During the on-site inspection, the Minister of Culture was accompanied by the Secretary General for Culture, Olympia Vikatos; the Head of Research at the Directorate for the Restoration of Ancient Monuments, Michalis Lefantzis; Tania Protopsalti, Deputy Director of the Thessaloniki City Archaeological Service, as well as officials from the Ministry of Culture.