New discoveries challenge existing theories: archaeologists have unveiled fresh details about the history of the Philip family.

Recent fire safety measures at an ancient archaeological site have led to discoveries shedding new light on its historical timeline. Among the findings are remnants of roads, residential structures, workshops, and public buildings, including a statue embedded in a wall, writes Heritage Daily.

Philippi, located near modern Krinides in eastern Macedonia, Greece, has long been recognized as a historically significant city. Originally established as Crenides by Thracian colonists in the 4th century BC, it was annexed and renamed by Macedonian King Philip II in 356 BC.

Philippi played a strategic role in controlling the ancient royal road between Amphipolis and Neapolis. Later, under Roman influence, this route became part of the famous Egnatian Way, which connected Constantinople to the western borders of the Byzantine Empire.

Although the city suffered significantly during the Slavic invasions and a devastating earthquake in 619 AD, recent findings suggest that it was not entirely abandoned. Archaeological evidence indicates that Philippi remained inhabited from the 9th to the 11th century AD.

Stavroula Dadaki, director of the Kavala-Thassos Ephorate of Antiquities, commented on this discovery, stating: "The fire safety project provided new evidence that contradicts the belief that Philippi was abandoned after the 6th century AD. We have uncovered buildings dated to the 9th-11th centuries AD, proving that the city remained occupied during this period."

Further excavations are planned, with special attention to a large structure near the ancient theater. A partially unearthed statue embedded in its walls adds another layer of intrigue to the history of Philippi.

Additionally, we reported on the "rhinoceros" beneath the roadway. Archaeologists discovered a 1500-year-old Roman-era stone coffin weighing 750 kilograms.