Searching for the harbor of Pella

According to the latest news, archaeologists have started defining the old coastline of Pella to locate the position of its ancient harbor. 

Pella was built at the mouth of the Axios River to ensure direct access to the sea. Until now, the harbor has not been located because today, Pella lies 25 km inland (see: Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great). Over the past two thousand years, the harbor has silted up, transforming the once so busy lagoon into a lake, which eventually dried up. 

Mouth of the Axios River today

The archaeologists retraced the ancient coastline and the small walled island of Fakos that lay opposite the entrance, thanks to surface and geophysical surveys. They presently are investigating the role this port played in Macedonia’s history, even though Alexander started his campaign in Amphipolis. They believe that many ships of his fleet were built here. 

From the 5th century BC onwards, the harbor of Pella was a commercial hub where goods were loaded and unloaded and where visiting embassies anchored on their journey to the Royal Palace. 

Another research project is underway to learn more about the buildings and quays of this vital port city.