Around Krinides, a landscape shaped by springs, history and archaeology come together. The area outside the walls was characterized by numerous springs and abundant flowing water. Nearby is Dikili Tash, a prehistoric settlement on the Krinides mound. The old village is also recommended as a place to visit. A seasonal treatment offering provides another focus.
Landscape and History
The old village of Krinides lies among plane trees and poplars. This highlight focuses on the village itself and complements the archaeological sites nearby. The name of the area of Krinides outside the walls is said to have been attributed to the exiled Athenian orator and politician Kallistratos. The region was later renamed Philippi after Philip II annexed it. The attribution concerns the area outside the walls, while the later renaming applies to the region.
Dikili Tash: Settlement and Finds
Dikili Tash, a prehistoric settlement on the Krinides mound, lies near Krinides. The mound covers about 4.5 hectares and is 17 meters high. The two measurements describe different things: the figure in hectares refers to the area, while the figure in meters refers to the height. A Byzantine tower was discovered at the summit of the mound. The prehistoric settlement and the Byzantine find thus represent distinct historical connections.
Charred grape berries were also found at the settlement. Their large number suggests that fresh fruit was pressed to obtain juice. This finding adds a possible activity from the site's history to the architectural and geographical details: pressing fruit to make juice.
A temporary exhibition in the foyer of the Philippi Archaeological Museum displays finds from the excavations at Dikili Tash. These include figurines, vases, tools and jewelry. The different types of finds offer a distinct perspective on the archaeological site: while the mound, its measurements and the tower describe the place, the exhibits draw attention to recovered objects. As the exhibition is temporary, check in advance whether it will be on display during your visit.
Treatments and Visit Planning
The Krinides Clay Treatment Centre is located near Krinides. It offers clay treatments, hydrotherapy in a renovated hammam and massages in a specially designed outdoor area. The locations for the treatments are clearly distinguished: hydrotherapy takes place in the hammam, and massages in the outdoor area. The offering is seasonal, so check current availability before visiting. The focus on treatments differs from the area's history and archaeological finds. If you are looking for a hotel in Krinides, consider which of these aspects is most important for your trip.
Discover more destinations: NikĂsiani, Keramoti, Moustheni, Chrisoupoli, Ofrynio Orfano, Nea Iraklitsa, Zigos, Amisiana.
For the broader travel overview: Kavála.
