Educational Excursions 2025 – Exploring the Landscape of Lavreotiki and Beyond

During this year’s research season (June–July 2025), the students and researchers of the ΛΕΥΚΙΟΣ Project had the opportunity to take part in a series of educational excursions, enriching our understanding of the historical and cultural layers of the Attic landscape.

Velatouri: A hill with a long and at times intense human presence, from the Final Neolithic to the Late Roman period. At its summit are preserved settlement remains. Α Middle Helladic tumulus, Mycenaean tholos tombs, and traces of continued habitation, while on its slopes spread settlement clusters, cemeteries with rich grave goods, and the theatre. Further down, towards the plain, stand monumental buildings of the ancient agora of the Thorikians. The fortification of Agios Nikolaos in 412 BCE by the Athenians testifies to the strategic importance of the area for protecting the mines and maritime routes.

Thorikos Theatre – Doric Building: As part of the excursion, we discussed in detail the ancient theatre of Thorikos and identified traces of mining and hydraulic activity in the area. We walked to the spot believed to have been the ancient Agora and studied the construction techniques visible in the surviving section of an unfinished double Doric stoa.

Acropolis of Athens: Our visit to the iconic site of Athens brought us face-to-face with the ultimate symbol of Classical Athenian power — a grandeur that was, in no small part, founded upon the underground mining wealth of Lavreotiki. Mr. Sotiris generously guided us through the marble conservation workshops, sharing with us his deep knowledge of every corner, every tool, and every stone.

Makronisos: Visiting the island across from Lavrio was a moving experience, as we came into direct material contact with some of the darkest chapters of modern Greek history. Makronisos’ connection with Lavrio — as the port of transport — gives the physicality of place to the memory of exile and political violence.

Sounion: The visit to the sanctuaries of Sounion, set within a breathtaking natural landscape, sparked discussions on historical and archaeological interpretations, analysing the geopolitical and cultic significance of the area.

These excursions formed an integral part of the educational experience of the ΛΕΥΚΙΟΣ Project, reinforcing a hands-on approach to history and linking local and material memory with the wider historical narratives of Attica.