Thessaloniki’s New Subway System Unearths Ancient Treasures
The city of Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city and a significant center of commerce, is about to offer its residents and visitors an unparalleled commuting experience. The city’s brand-new subway system, which is under construction, has revealed an unexpected bonus – thousands of ancient artifacts, turning the daily commute into a journey through time.
The project, which began in 2006, has unveiled numerous archaeological finds from the different civilizations that have occupied Thessaloniki over the centuries. The city, founded in 315 BC, has been under Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule, leaving behind a rich historical tapestry now being exposed during the subway construction.
Archaeological Excavations Yield Significant Finds
Excavations for the subway system have so far unearthed a staggering 300,000 artifacts. These include statues, coins, jewelry, mosaics, and pottery, dating back to the city’s founding and even earlier. Most of the items were found during the construction of the central stations of the subway system. 
The most significant find to date is a well-preserved marble-paved road, complete with a complex sewage system, believed to have been built during the Roman era. This ancient road will be incorporated into the design of the subway’s central station, providing passengers with a unique view into the city’s past.
According to Yannis Mylopoulos, the Chairman of Attiko Metro, the company overseeing the project, the discovery of these ancient artifacts has posed some challenges. The construction work has often been delayed due to the meticulous process of preserving and documenting the finds. However, the company is committed to respecting the city’s rich history and incorporating the artifacts into the subway’s design.
Transforming Commute into a Historical Journey
The decision to incorporate the discovered historical artifacts into the subway system’s design will transform the commute into an enriching historical journey for passengers. Plans are underway to display some of the artifacts in the stations, effectively turning them into mini-museums. This unique approach will allow passengers to experience Thessaloniki’s rich history firsthand, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Dr. Polyxeni Adam-Veleni, Director of the General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage, describes the project as a “huge museum of the history of Thessaloniki.” She further adds that the subway will provide a comprehensive narrative of the city’s past, from its foundation to modern times.
A Welcome Boost for Tourism
Aside from its practical function, the subway system is expected to give a significant boost to the city’s tourism industry. Visitors will not only be drawn to the city’s traditional landmarks but also to the subway stations, which will showcase Thessaloniki’s rich historical heritage. The subway system will also provide an easy and efficient way for tourists to navigate the city, further enhancing their experience.
In conclusion, Thessaloniki’s new subway system is set to offer an experience unlike any other – a daily commute that doubles as a journey through the city’s rich historical past. With the project slated for completion in 2023, both residents and visitors can look forward to a unique combination of modern infrastructure and ancient history, promising a captivating journey beneath the city’s streets.
