Acropolis
of ancient Elateia and Mycenaen cemetery of chamber tombs on its west slopes
(used between 14th century BC and Protogeometric period; acme after 1200 BC).
The archaeological evidence provided by the excavation of the cemetery attests
the expansion of Mycenaean civilization in the periphery and its survival after
the decline of the great Mycenaean centers.
The excavation started as a rescue operation because of the intensive
clandestine activity in the area (campaigns 1985, 1987). Due to the exceptional
importance of the finds the dig continued as a joint project undertaken by the
14th Ephorate for Antiquities and the Austrian University of Salzburg.
Most of the tombs have been buried after their excavation by decision
of the Ministry of Culture. Ten of the best preserved have been roofed and can
be visited.
Temple of Athena
Kranaia
Remains of Doric peripteral temple, orientated north-south; dimensions:
27,5x11m. A polygonal enclosure to the south of the temple. Clay figurines representing
goddesses and inscriptions found during the excavation support the identification
of the building with the temple of Athena Kranaia.
The sanctuary was excavated by the French Archaeological School in
1886.
