A newly discovered funerary complex in the Greek region of Tenea is shedding light on the area’s ancient past, offering fresh insights into its long-lost civilization.
Unveiling a Monumental Tomb in Chiliomodi
Located north of Tenea in Chiliomodi, the massive tomb was uncovered by archaeologists in an excavation overseen by the Greek Ministry of Culture. The structure bears a striking resemblance to Macedonian tombs from the Hellenistic period (323 BCE–31 BCE). It consists of a T-shaped layout featuring a large 24-by-9-foot chamber connected to a narrow, partially covered corridor.
Inside the main chamber, researchers identified six tombs, including a monolithic sarcophagus that contained both human and animal remains. Two of the tombs appeared to have been looted in antiquity. Alongside these burials, archaeologists found animal bones and artifacts dating to the 5th and 6th centuries CE.
Evidence suggests that the tomb was in use until the 4th century CE, after which it was sealed. However, during the later Roman period, the site was reopened, the burials were disturbed, and the space was repurposed for ritualistic activities.
Rich Trove of Artifacts Points to a Healing Cult
Despite the tomb’s long history of reuse, archaeologists unearthed a remarkable collection of artifacts from both the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Among the discoveries were small vessels, pottery fragments, gold coins, decorative bronze objects, glass beads, iron steles, perfume bottles, and clay figurines.
One of the most striking finds was a gold ring set with a semi-precious stone engraved with an image of Apollo accompanied by a serpent—a strong indication of a healing cult. Other votive offerings and architectural elements discovered around the tomb further support the theory that the site was associated with ancient healing rituals.
“The finds clearly indicate that this monument was in continuous use for centuries and linked to a cult centered on healing,” the Greek Ministry of Culture reported.
Tenea: A City of Myth and Mystery
This discovery adds to the growing body of evidence confirming the existence of Tenea, an ancient city long considered legendary. According to Greek mythology, Tenea was founded by Trojan prisoners following the fall of Troy. Unlike its neighboring city Corinth, which was destroyed by the Romans in 146 BCE, Tenea not only survived but flourished for centuries. However, the reasons behind its eventual decline remain unknown.
Tenea’s existence was finally confirmed in 2018, when archaeologist Elena Korka and her team uncovered remnants of the city, including clay, marble, and stone structures, doorways, coins, and pottery spanning from the 4th century BCE to the late Roman period.
A History of Significant Discoveries
The latest excavation is part of Korka’s ongoing Ancient Tenea Program, under the Greek Ministry of Culture’s Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities. The program has led to numerous groundbreaking discoveries over the years, including:
The Kouros of Tenea (circa 560 BCE) – A marble statue found in 1846, believed to represent a deceased individual.
A High-Status Woman’s Sarcophagus (1984) – Further evidence of Tenea’s sophisticated burial practices.
A Series of Tombs (2017) – Strengthening the case for Tenea’s significant role in antiquity.
In addition to the funerary complex, the recent excavations have revealed other ancient structures, including a paved road, residential buildings, storage facilities, and a kiln containing charred clay fragments.
As archaeologists continue to explore this fascinating site, each new discovery brings us closer to understanding the rich history of Tenea—transforming myth into historical reality.
