A long-lost city from Greek mythology has finally emerged from the shadows of legend. Archaeologists in Greece have discovered what they believe to be the ruins of Tenea, a Trojan-founded settlement that has remained elusive for centuries.
A City Rooted in Myth Becomes Reality
For years, Tenea was just a name in ancient Greek texts. It was said to have been founded by Trojan prisoners after the Trojan War, yet no physical evidence had ever confirmed its existence. That is, until now.
Elena Korka, a seasoned archaeologist and director of the Office for Supervision of Antiquaries in Greece’s Ministry of Culture, has spent more than three decades searching for Tenea. Her perseverance has finally paid off.
Excavations near the small village of Chiliomodi in southern Greece have uncovered remnants of a city stretching over 670 meters. The discovery includes well-preserved floors made of marble, stone, and clay, as well as structural elements like beams, small columns, and storage spaces filled with ancient jugs. Among the most striking finds are tombs, including those of two infants.
From 1984 to 2018: A Long-Awaited Breakthrough
The search for Tenea began in 1984 when Korka and her team discovered a sarcophagus near Chiliomodi. Something about the site lingered in her mind, compelling her to return decades later.
- In 2013, Korka reunited with her original team, determined to investigate further.
- By September 2018, full-scale excavations had begun at Chiliomodi.
- The team first uncovered an ancient road, which led them to a graveyard containing the remains of multiple individuals.
- Continuing along the road, they found the first substantial evidence of Tenea’s existence.
Their findings suggest that the city thrived economically, particularly during the reign of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus between 193 and 211 A.D., before being abandoned in the sixth century.
Wealth and Innovation in Tenea
Evidence from the excavation suggests that Tenea was more than just a mythical city—it was a thriving settlement with significant resources. The presence of clay pipes at the site indicates a well-developed infrastructure, hinting at long-term habitation.
The findings align with historical references that describe Tenea as a prosperous city, possibly dating back to the Mycenaean era. Researchers believe that its wealth and influence may have allowed it to flourish independently, even as nearby Corinth came under Roman control.
Korka emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating, “We’ve found evidence of life and death… and all this is just a small part of the history of the place.”
What Lies Ahead for Tenea?
The excavation is far from over. With only a fraction of the site uncovered, archaeologists believe that more secrets remain buried beneath the soil. Future digs could reveal additional structures, artifacts, and insights into the daily lives of Tenea’s ancient inhabitants.
For now, the discovery of Tenea stands as a testament to the power of perseverance in archaeology. What was once considered mere legend is now etched into history, piece by piece.