Museum of the Royal Tombs in Aigai, Archaeological museum in Vergina, Greece
The Museum of the Royal Tombs in Aigai sits within a reconstructed earth mound and houses the unsealed burial chambers discovered in the 1970s. The underground space surrounds the tombs and displays the finds exactly where they were excavated, preserving the original layout.
The excavator uncovered the sealed tombs in the autumn of 1977 while digging beneath the great mound at Vergina. The findings led to the identification of the ancient Macedonian capital and confirmed the site as the burial ground of the ruling dynasty in the fourth century before Christ.
The golden larnax in the main chamber displays a 16-rayed star, the symbol of the Macedonian royal family, still recognized across the region today. Visitors can view original burial offerings, including remnants of purple fabric and carved ivory pieces, that reflect court life over 2,300 years ago.
The site lies near the modern village of Vergina, roughly an hour by car west of Thessaloniki. The walkthrough follows dimly lit rooms adjoining the tombs, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
The circular display cases at the center of the museum contain the gilded burial chests that still hold the cremated bones of the deceased. This direct access to the undisturbed chambers allows visitors to see the scene as it was found at opening.
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