Considered a silent sentinel, the Velatouri hill stands. It watches over the ancient site of Thorikos near Athens.
Welcome to the Velatouri hill. Here lies a place steeped in history. It offers a glimpse into civilizations long past. Our journey today explores the secrets held within Pyrgos Velatouri.
The Velatouri hill has seen human activity since the Final Neolithic period around 4100-3100 BC. This double-peaked hill is more than just a geographical feature. It is a historical landmark. It has been a silent witness to millennia of human endeavor.
Mining began on Velatouri in the Final Neolithic or Early Bronze Age around 3200 BC. The bedrock is layered with marble and mica-schist. These contain lead ores rich in silver. This made Thorikos a significant site for ancient metallurgy.
The Mycenaean era from 1600 to 1100 BC was a period of flourishing for the site. Remnants of a Mycenaean acropolis have been found at the summit. Five domed and vaulted graves were discovered. One contained pottery and figurines dating from the seventh to the fifth centuries BC. This suggests the site retained its sacred character. It did so even after the Mycenaean civilization declined.
The Mycenaean tombs at Thorikos illustrate the evolution of tomb types in mainland Greece. These tombs demonstrate the existence of a local elite. They testify to the area’s quality of construction. Evidence suggests external contacts with Argolid and Messenia. Tomb V is the earliest burial. It dates to the beginning of the Mycenaean era in the 16th century BC.
The Industrial Quarter on the lower slopes of Velatouri is interesting. It became truly industrial by the 4th century BC. Before this, habitation was confined to the acropolis. During the Archaic period, a large housing quarter grew on the lower western slopes.
Mines mark Velatouri hill. The Theatre mine and the Acropolis Mine are major access points. The Sheepfold Mine is located at the foot of the northern side. The Acropolis Mine extends for nearly 5 km of galleries.
Between 2012-2017, a surface survey of the Velatouri was carried out. In 2018, new excavations began. These reveal more about Velatouri’s past.
As you stand on the Velatouri, imagine the lives of those who walked here before. Hear the echoes of ancient miners. Visualize the rituals performed by early worshippers. The Velatouri is more than just a hill. It is a testament to human history.
The story of Velatouri is one of continuity. It links Neolithic settlers to Mycenaean elites. It connects classical artisans to modern archaeologists. It reminds us that even ruins can speak volumes. They tell us about the enduring relationship between people and the land.