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Archaeological Site of Philippi

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Archaeological Site of Philippi (Greece)

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The Archaeological Site of Philippi in Eastern Macedonia is an outstanding example of an ancient city that integrated various cultural influences over several centuries. Founded in 356 BC by King Philip II of Macedon on the site of the Thracian colony Krenides, it later became a major Roman administrative and commercial hub. Philippi achieved historical fame through the decisive battle in 42 BC, where Octavian and Mark Antony defeated Brutus and Cassius, the assassins of Julius Caesar. In 49 AD, the Apostle Paul visited the city and established the first Christian community on European soil, making Philippi a pivotal center for the spread of early Christianity. The ruins include a vast Roman forum, a monumental theater dating back to the Macedonian period, and several impressive Byzantine basilicas. Since 2016, Philippi has been a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its unique blend of Hellenistic, Roman, and Christian architectural traditions.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C46913182327272116116
Rain mm574451425047322146525167

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The archaeological site of Philippi is open as a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the theatre, agora, basilicas, and cistern. Entrance is ticketed, with reduced rates for students.
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Typical hours
Opening hours follow a seasonal rhythm: in summer usually 8:00-20:00, in winter 8:30-15:30. Public holidays often have different schedules.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, except in areas with special protection measures. Tripods are permitted but should not obstruct other visitors.
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Time needed
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit. The well-preserved theatre and the vast basilicas invite longer exploration.
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Combine with
Philippi is near Kavala, making it easy to combine with the coastal city and its Byzantine fortress. Ancient Amphipolis is also a worthwhile addition.
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Getting there
By car, reach Philippi via the A2 motorway (Egnatia Odos), exit 'Philippi - Krinides'. Public buses from Kavala to Krinides run regularly, with a stop about 1 km away.
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Insider tip
Visit the site in the late afternoon when the golden light makes the ruins especially photogenic. The small museum at the entrance holds original finds and is worth a quick stop.

Geography

Coordinates
41.01190, 24.35470

Facts

  • The city was renamed in 356 BC after King Philip II of Macedon.
  • Philippi was a key station on the Via Egnatia, the Roman road connecting East and West.
  • The Battle of Philippi in 42 BC was one of the largest in Roman history.
  • The first Christian baptism on European soil (Lydia) took place here in 49 AD.
  • The ancient theater was built in the 4th century BC and later modified by the Romans.
  • The site was officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

PhilippiPhilippi6 km · WExplore →
KavalaKavala9 km · SEExplore →
PalioPalio12 km · SExplore →
Nea KarvaliNea Karvali14 km · SEExplore →
Kavala Oil TerminalKavala Oil Terminal16 km · SEExplore →
Nea PeramosNea Peramos19 km · SExplore →
Mount PangaionMount Pangaion23 km · SWExplore →
DramaDrama23 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Archaeological Site of Philippi (1)

Philippi Rock Art🏺 historical

Ancient rock carvings near Philippi providing insight into early human art and symbolism.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Philippi located?
The site is located in Northern Greece, about 15 km northwest of the city of Kavala.
Why is the site historically important?
Here, Apostle Paul founded the first Christian community on European soil.
Is the site a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Yes, Philippi was added to the list in 2016 for its exceptional ancient remains.
What can you see there?
An impressive ancient theater, Roman forums, and remains of early Christian basilicas.
How much time is needed for the visit?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours to explore the extensive grounds and the museum.
Archaeological Site of Philippi: where is it located?
Archaeological Site of Philippi is located in Greece.
Archaeological Site of Philippi: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Archaeological Site of Philippi: why is it worth visiting?
The Archaeological Site of Philippi in Eastern Macedonia is an outstanding example of an ancient city that integrated various cultural influences over several centuries.
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