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Modern Description: Reportedly open on weekends 9-16 (2019 January). The archaeological site of Palatiano lies on two hills between the modern villages of Kentriko and Palatiano, in the Prefecture of Kilkis. The ancient city was built on the east side of the northern hill, while its cemeteries lie on the southern hill. The site is mainly known in literature from the 'Heroon' with its four marble statues and inscriptions.
The archaeological site of Palatiano has been identified as the ancient city of Ioron, one of the cities of ancient Krestonia, on the eastern part of the Axios valley. It lies on a favorable location in the fertile plain of the river Echedoros (modern name Gallikos), assuring control of the access points of Parorbelia and Sintike to Krestonia and Mygdonia. The sanctuary of Dionysus in ancient Ioron was famous throughout Krestonia and finds have confirmed the cult of the god in the site of Palatiano.
The archaeological excavations uncovered a part of the city of the 1st to 3rd c AD, a period of development and growth. The area of the later city of Ioron was first inhabited in the 10th c BC and was abandoned at the end of the 3rd c AD. The history of Ioron begins at the 4th c BC and, after a destruction in the middle of the 1st c , the city was rebuilt and was at its economic and social peak during the roman period, between 1st and 3rd c AD.
The city was fortified and densely structured with paved roads, impressive drainage system and cisterns. The houses were large with open yards and storerooms. Tools and utensils were found connected with the daily life and activities of the inhabitants, such as the preparation of the food and running of the household, along with beauty articles, objects of worship and textile-making tools. Information about pottery making, metalworking and fabric manufacturing are plenty and indicate the participation in the trade network by part of the population.
Wikidata ID: Q38281178

Info: Odysseus

(Odysseus, Greek Ministry of Culture)

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