Archaeological Site of Nea Plevrona
The well-preserved fortification of Hellenistic Pleuron (Castle of Kyra-Rini) with towers, a cistern and an unusual theatre overlooking the lagoon.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
New Pleuron lies about five kilometres north-west of Mesolongi, on the south-western foothills of Mount Zygos, and is one of the largest ancient cities of western Aetolia. The city held an important position in Aetolian mythology and is mentioned by Homer in the Iliad as one of the Aetolian cities that sent ships to Troy.
The original Pleuron was destroyed in 234 BC by Demetrios II of Macedon, and the city was rebuilt at a higher position, further west, known as the Castle of Kyra-Rini. The fortification, 2,360 metres long and enclosing 235 stremmata, survives to a considerable height with gates, towers and access stairways. Inside the enclosure the layout of the urban fabric is preserved, with elements of the Hippodamian system, the agora and a large rock-cut cistern (33 × 22 metres) with a capacity of 2,500 cubic metres, divided into five chambers.
The unusual theatre stands out, built on the western wall near the central gate, with excellent views of the lagoon of Mesolongi. It could seat about 1,000 spectators and dates to the late 3rd century BC; it initially functioned as a bouleuterion and was later converted into a theatre. The visitable part, which does not include the acropolis, has a car park, a service building, information material and marked routes.
Highlights
- Fortification 2,360 metres long with gates and towers
- Rock-cut cistern with a capacity of 2,500 cubic metres
- Theatre overlooking the lagoon of Mesolongi
- Urban layout with elements of the Hippodamian system
- Operated by
- Υπουργείο Πολιτισμού – Εφορεία Αρχαιοτήτων Αιτωλοακαρνανίας και Λευκάδας
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €5 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €3 |
Free admission: 6 March, 18 April, 18 May, the last weekend of September, 28 October and the first and third Sunday of each month from 1 November to 31 March.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
The site is about 5 km north-west of Mesolongi, with direct access from the Antirrio–Ioannina national road or from the Ionia Odos (exit 4, towards Mesolongi). By car it is 15 minutes from Mesolongi and 40 minutes from Antirrio.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
On site there are toilets and a car park.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
