Krinides between village history and archaeology

Krinides reveals itself through several distinct features: the area outside the walls, the old village area and archaeological sites in the surrounding area. Numerous springs and an abundance of flowing water shaped the area outside the walls. The old village of Krinides lies among plane trees and poplars and is recommended as a place to visit. Nearby is Dikili Tash, a prehistoric settlement on the Krinides mound. These distinct features offer a concrete introduction to the landscape, local history and archaeology.

History of the name

The name of the area outside the walls is said to have been attributed to the exiled Athenian orator and politician Kallistratos. Later, after its annexation by Philip II, the region was renamed Philippi. The first account concerns the name of this area; the second, the region’s later naming. Alongside its archaeological surroundings, the region’s background thus includes a historical interpretation of its name and a political turning point.

Dikili Tash: settlement and finds

Nearby is Dikili Tash, a prehistoric settlement on the Krinides mound. The mound covers about 4.5 hectares and is 17 metres high. The area describes its extent, while the height describes its elevation—two different measurements that help locate the site. A Byzantine tower was discovered at the top of the mound. The archaeological account thus ranges from the prehistoric settlement to a named structure at its summit.

Large quantities of charred berries from pressed grapes found at the settlement suggest that fresh fruit was pressed to obtain its juice. This possible juice-making activity adds another kind of archaeological trace to the information about the settlement and the tower. In addition to the architectural find, it offers a cautiously interpreted indication of how fruit was used.

Finds at the Philippi Museum

A temporary exhibition in the foyer of the Archaeological Museum of Philippi displays finds from the excavations at Dikili Tash: figurines, vases, tools and jewellery. The exhibition brings individual objects together with their origins in these excavations, complementing the mound’s geographical context with specific categories of finds. As the exhibition is temporary, check before visiting whether it will be on display at your chosen time.

Interests and choosing where to stay

When looking for a holiday rental in Krinides, it is worth comparing the two perspectives: the old village is a place to visit in town, while Dikili Tash lies nearby. If you want to get to know the village area, give it a different priority than you would if you are particularly interested in the prehistoric settlement. What matters is which connection shapes your own travel plans. This choice of focus can help you decide how to experience Krinides as a place to stay before choosing a holiday rental.

Discover more destinations: Keramoti, Chrisoupoli, Ofrynio Orfano, Lidia, Platamonas, Zigos, Moustheni, Néa Karváli

See the broader travel guide: Kavála.