The Koukounaries Project, Paros
One of the most ancient and significant acropoleis sites in the Aegean, Koukounaries, in Naoussa Bay, located at the northern part of the island of Paros, has been the place of systematic archaeological investigations by the Archaeological Society at Athens for almost two decades (1976-1992). The site is a rare historical record from the Late Neolithic Era to the time of the Parian poet Archilochus (early 7th century BC). Among the most significant finds are the remains of a prosperous Mycenaean hegemonic mansion (LH IIIC), destroyed by fire around 1150 BC. In the Iron Age, Koukounaries witnessed the creation of successive settlements of the Protogeometric, Geometric and Early Archaic periods. The latest period preserves the ruins of an early prytaneion and a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. In 2012 and 2013, thanks to the support of the A. G. Leventis Foundation, the project team produced a preliminary study for the management, protection and enhancement of the site. This addresses problems regarding the presentation of the historical fabric to visitors, along with an effective interpretation plan, employing traditional and digital media, and calling for the creation of a visitor centre to be constructed at the base of the acropolis.
Grants given:
2012, 2013, 2015, 2016
