Greek council lists Megara as preservation site

The Greek Central Archaeological Council (KAS) on Wednesday unanimously voted for an area of 4,000 hectares in the western Attica region of Megara to be listed for protection as an archaeological site.

Roman batha in Megara [Credit: ekathimerini]

Located in the northern section of the Corinth Canal opposite the island of Salamina, Megara was a significant trading hub in antiquity, with the new archaeological area including two ancient ports.

Despite initial concerns regarding the size of the site and the difficulties that its full excavation would entail, KAS on Wednesday said that the protection of significant antiquities found at the site merit its full protection.

Such significant finds include Roman-era baths, an aqueduct, impressive fortifications, graves containing valuable burial offerings and an ancient agora, among others.

The decision by KAS will mean that all the separate excavation sites that have emerged at intervals from the 1930s to the present will be encompassed in the 4,000-hectare zone.

Source: ekathimerini [October 30, 2013]