The Oldest Lakeside Settlement in Europe
Approximately 8 kilometres along the road connecting Kastoria and Argos Orestiko, lies Dispilio, the oldest Neolithic settlement in Europe. Its discovery occurred serendipitously in 1932 when the receding water level of the lake revealed wooden piles, igniting one of the most significant archaeological investigations in Greece and Europe.
An Organised Prehistoric Society
Excavations brought to light a fully structured lakeside settlement dating back to the Middle and Late Neolithic periods, the first of its kind ever excavated in Greece. Scholars estimate that approximately 3,000 people once thrived here, forming a sophisticated society. The inhabitants raised animals, fished, and crafted tools and utensils from everyday materials such as flint and bone. One of the most remarkable discoveries is the Dispilio tablet (5,260 BC), which demonstrates the existence of an early form of written language, while a bone flute bears witness to the development of an early form of music.
The Archaeological Park
Today, visitors can explore an archaeological park that faithfully recreates the settlement. Eight life-size huts, built in a circular or rectangular shape from tree trunks, branches, mud, and straw, bring to life the daily lives of prehistoric people. Their design is based exclusively on archaeological studies, and inside there are replicas of clay pots, plates, and cups.
Visiting the Museum
The village museum houses authentic artefacts, revealing the high standard of living enjoyed by the people of the lake. The tablet and the bone musical instruments are the museum’s most prized exhibits, attracting global scientific interest.
The archaeological site and museum are open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, including holidays. Guided tours offer a unique opportunity to embark on a journey through time, to a place where humanity and the lake have coexisted harmoniously for over seven millennia.
An Organised Prehistoric Society
Excavations brought to light a fully structured lakeside settlement dating back to the Middle and Late Neolithic periods, the first of its kind ever excavated in Greece. Scholars estimate that approximately 3,000 people once thrived here, forming a sophisticated society. The inhabitants raised animals, fished, and crafted tools and utensils from everyday materials such as flint and bone. One of the most remarkable discoveries is the Dispilio tablet (5,260 BC), which demonstrates the existence of an early form of written language, while a bone flute bears witness to the development of an early form of music.
The Archaeological Park
Today, visitors can explore an archaeological park that faithfully recreates the settlement. Eight life-size huts, built in a circular or rectangular shape from tree trunks, branches, mud, and straw, bring to life the daily lives of prehistoric people. Their design is based exclusively on archaeological studies, and inside there are replicas of clay pots, plates, and cups.
Visiting the Museum
The village museum houses authentic artefacts, revealing the high standard of living enjoyed by the people of the lake. The tablet and the bone musical instruments are the museum’s most prized exhibits, attracting global scientific interest.
The archaeological site and museum are open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, including holidays. Guided tours offer a unique opportunity to embark on a journey through time, to a place where humanity and the lake have coexisted harmoniously for over seven millennia.
