Ancient Philippi, Greece: A Guide to the Archaeological Site

Founded in the fourth century BCE, the ancient Philippi was one of the most important cities of northeastern Greece, playing a pivotal role in the region’s political, commercial, and religious heritage for nearly two millennia. It stands today as one of the most well-preserved early Christian monuments in the western world.

Established as a small settlement, Philippi grew in importance and served as a pivotal keystone of the Macedonian kingdom, the Roman Republic, the Roman Empire, and the Christian faith. It is one of the best ancient sites in all of Greece for exploring remnants from all eras of ancient history between the 4th century BCE and the 14th century CE.

Whether looking to immerse in the site’s most alluring ruins or for a place to stay nearby for an extended visit, this is everything you need to know before visiting the Philippi Archaeological Site in Greece.

Ancient Philippi: A Brief History

The Founding of Philippi and Macedonian Influences

Ancient Philippi was originally founded as a Thasian colony from the nearby island of Thasos in either 360 or 359 BCE and was named Crenides. However, it wasn’t long before King Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great, conquered the area in 356 BCE, renaming the city Philippi.

Thanks to the village’s strategic location near the local gold mines, Philippi quickly became the most important Macedonian city in eastern Greece, with Philip II constructing various fortifications, including the city walls, which partially blocked the area between Mt Orbelos and the nearby swamp.

By doing so, Philippi managed to control the passage between Amphipolis and Neapolis, a route that would later become a part of the Great Royal Route, which runs between east and west Macedonia.

Philippi maintained much of its autonomy over the following century but was fully integrated into the Macedonian kingdom under either Philip V of Macedon or Perseus of Macedon between 221 and 179 BCE.

The Roman Era

Philippi remained an important member of the Macedonian kingdom until the fall of the Antigonid dynasty during the Third Macedonian War in about 168 BCE. Now under the control of the Romans, nearby Amphipolis was designated the capital city of the new Eastern Macedonian State, removing much of Philippi’s influence in the region.

Still, Philippi appears again in the history books in the 1st century BCE as the site at which Mark Antony and Octavian confront Brutus and Cassius to avenge the assassination of Julius Caesar. The Battle of Philippi was one of the largest conflicts of the ancient world and resulted in the establishment of the Roman Empire.

Following the battle, Philippi became a Roman colony and experienced an influx in its population, with various constructions and monuments being added to its infrastructure at this time, including a central square that connected major roads and civic buildings.

Christianity in Philippi

Philippi became an important city within the Roman Empire over the following decades and was even visited by the apostle Paul during his second missionary journey. Through his letters to the Philippians, as recorded in the New Testament, Paul revealed that he underwent imprisonment in the city, and the ruins of this prison can still be visited today.

Following his visit, Philippi became an important site within Christianity and was home to the first Christian church to be established in Europe. The city developed a flourishing Christian community, leaving behind many structures still visible at the site.

Following this conversion into a religious epicentre, Philippi entered a new era of prosperity, becoming a religious metropolis throughout the Roman Empire and into Greece’s Byzantine period. The city was ultimately abandoned during the Ottoman conquest of the area in the 14th century, leaving Philippi to fall to ruin until archaeological research and excavations began in the 19th century, largely thanks to the efforts of Greek archaeologists and the national archaeological society.

Philippi was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 for its religious and historical significance, particularly its octagonal church, part of the greater network of early Christian monuments preserved across the region.

Things to See and Do in Ancient Philippi

1. The Hellenistic Theatre

Commissioned by Philip II in the mid-4th century BCE, the Hellenistic theatre is one of the oldest archaeological ruins in Philippi and played a central role throughout the city’s history. This ancient theatre served as a venue for performances and civic gatherings.

The theatre was expanded throughout the Roman era, becoming a three-story stage capable of accommodating large crowds. It received further renovations in the 2nd and 3rd centuries CE when the site was converted into an arena for gladiatorial fights.

The theatre still offers various performances throughout the summer months, while the ruins of the facility are open for tours throughout the year.

2. The Prison of St Paul

While not a particularly extensive collection of ruins, the prison of Apostle Paul is a must-visit for any fan of Christian history. This small brick-walled chamber is believed to have been a Roman water cistern converted into a makeshift prison to house Paul upon his mission in the city.

The remnants of wall frescoes on the site suggest that the prison was later converted into a small church.

3. The Agora and Roman Forum

Like many ancient cities in Greece, Philippi’s agora was the social and commercial centre of the city, dating back to its founding in the 5th century BCE. A Roman forum was later added adjacent to the Greek agora, with the remnants of both still promising an insightful glimpse into the markets and trading hubs of the ancient world.

The forum once included temples, administrative buildings, and fountains, with the central square acting as the heart of daily life.

4. The Basilicas of Ancient Philippi

There are three collections of ruins that indicate various churches in Philippi, designated Basilicas A, B, and C.

Basilica B was once a Byzantine-style church dating to the 5th century CE, now left largely in ruin following earthquakes and other disasters. Several architectural fragments from Basilica B are on display in the nearby museum and at the excavation site.

The Archaeological Site of Philippi also features an Octagon Complex that serves as the keystone of the city’s Christian heritage. This octagonal church was built in the 4th century and was dedicated to St Paul. It was constructed upon a Hellenistic sacred site, as indicated by a funerary heroon.

5. The Archaeological Museum of Philippi

The Archaeological Museum of Philippi is a must-stop when visiting the site and offers guests an insight into the archaeological finds. Split over two levels, the museum features various exhibits of the city’s ancient life, from prehistoric to Roman, as well as the city’s religious heritage over a series of artifacts and monuments.

Several pieces were recovered during 20th-century excavations supported by the Greek archaeological service, which still maintains the site.

How to Get to Ancient Philippi, Greece?

If travelling by public transport, the easiest way to get to the Philippi Archaeological Site would be to take the KTEL bus to Kavala and, from there, grab a city bus to the site.

Alternatively, the much more convenient mode of transportation is rental cars. Below, you will find directions to the site from various tourist hubs in the region.

• Driving to Ancient Phillipi from Thessaloniki
• Driving to Ancient Phillipi from Kavala
• Driving to Ancient Phillipi from Katerini

Where to Stay Near Ancient Philippi, Greece?

While many visitors come on day trips from nearby Thessaloniki or Kavala, those looking to immerse in the local history will find several accommodation options within the modern village of Philippi. The following are some of the most comfortable stays within walking distance of the site:

• Philippeio Hotel
• Joges Apartment
• Anestis Studios

FAQS About Ancient Philippi, Greece

Where is Ancient Philippi, Greece?

Located in the modern village of Filippoi, Ancient Philippi is situated in the Kavala region of East Macedonia and Thrace in northeastern Greece, about two hours from Thessaloniki.

How Much is Admission at Ancient Philippi, Greece?

Tickets to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Philippi cost €6 for general admission. The site offers reduced rates of €3 for seniors, students, and guests visiting in the off-season.

How Long Do I Need to Explore Ancient Philippi, Greece?

Visitors can make a quick trip to the Archaeological Site of Philippi in about an hour and a half and see most of the sights. However, if you are looking for an immersive exploration of the ruins and museum, you should expect to spend at least 2 to 3 hours here.

What Are Some Other Archaeological Sites Near Ancient Philippi, Greece?

Enjoyed learning about the ancient city of Philippi? Be sure to check out these other archaeological sites and ancient ruins located nearby.

• Archaeological Site of Olynthus (1654 km)
• Archaeological Site of Stagira (110 km )
• Archaeological Site of Ancient Pydna (211 km)
• Archaeological Area Potidea (229 km)