Archaeological Site of Ancient City of Samos (Pythagoreion)

The Archaeological Site of the ancient city of Samos, at today’s Pythagoreio, reveals the course of one of the ancient Greek world’s most important centers, with continuous habitation from the Neolithic to the Byzantine period. Under the tyranny of Polycrates (6th c. BC) the city flourished with monumental works such as the Eupalinian Tunnel, the great breakwater, and the Temple of Hera. Excavations have brought to light an organized walled city with public buildings, an agora, a theater, private houses with mosaics, extensive athletic facilities, and significant sanctuaries—evidence of its wealth, commercial ties, and high level of culture. Along with the Heraion, the Pythagoreio archaeological site is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.