Agios Athanasios site, Ithaki, Archaeological palace site in northern Ithaki, Greece.
Agios Athanasios is an archaeological palace site in northern Ithaki with extensive stone terraces connected by ancient stairways. The structures spread across the eastern slopes of Mount Exoghi and show the remains of a substantial complex from the Mycenaean period.
The site originates from the Mycenaean period and was researched from 1994 onward by the University of Ioannina, revealing significant architectural structures. Excavations uncovered an underground fountain that matches construction methods found at other major contemporary centers.
The remains show how an important administrative center was organized and connected with other Mycenaean settlements through trade and shared building techniques. The artifacts and structures tell the story of a place that was part of a wider network in the ancient world.
The site sits on mountain slopes with stone terraces, so comfortable footwear and a willingness to climb are helpful for exploring. The main finds are displayed in two local museums on the island, where you can see the objects in controlled conditions.
The site contains an underground water tank built using an advanced corbelling technique. This construction method matches the standard used in the largest Mycenaean centers of the time, showing the technical skill of the builders.
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