Amphipolis: After three months of intensive excavations with a dazzling array of finds, the pace on Kasta Hill is slowing down. “Scientific research cannot be hurried,” says Secretary General to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports, Mrs. Lina Mendoni.
The Ministry of Culture and Sports might still be in search for the laboratory and the researchers who will conduct the survey of the anthropological material found on Kasta Hill, but other investigations have been completed: the excavations, for one thing – at least for the time being.
Others are still in progress, like the geophysical exploration. As for the time needed to complete the scientific research about the monument, it certainly cannot be specified.
These are the main conclusions drawn from the interview Secretary General to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports, Mrs. Lina Mendoni gave to the AMNA News Agency.
In order for the monument to become visitable, many years are needed. For instance the newly revealed parts of the precinct at lake Kerkini “have to be studied, drawn and mapped, so that they can be ascribed to a restoration survey of the precinct,” Mrs. Mendoni explained.
As mentioned above, the excavation has been completed. The ongoing works at the site have to do with the protection of the monument, the pigments, the plaster etc.
Where, how and when the excavations will be continued depends on the results of the geophysical exploration, conducted by the Aristotle University’s team, headed by Grigoris Tsokas. These surveys will be conducted gradually, as the whole burial mount’s area is huge (c. 4,94 acres).
The missing parts of the “Persephone’s Abduction”-mosaic are under restoration at the Amphipolis Museum.
Mrs. Mendoni also referred to the city of Amphipolis, stressing that this is a very good chance for a sustainable development in the area.
