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Thessaloniki, Greece, recently opened its new metro system, showcasing ancient artifacts unearthed during construction. The project, which began in 2006, faced delays as workers discovered Byzantine-era markets, a Roman cemetery, and other historical treasures. Despite these setbacks, the city decided to incorporate the finds into the metro stations, offering commuters a unique underground museum experience.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the project as a blend of modern infrastructure and historical preservation, describing it as a “museum” in addition to a public works project. The completion of the metro system took nearly 20 years, with challenges stemming from funding issues during Greece’s debt crisis. Thessaloniki’s metro is the first of its kind outside of Athens, and builders had to dig deeper than planned to accommodate the archaeological discoveries.
Archaeologist Melina Paisidou expressed optimism that Thessaloniki could become a hub of antiquities akin to Rome. The metro’s Venizelou station, visited by the Prime Minister before its official opening, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history as passengers navigate through its underground museum.
The unique approach of integrating historical artifacts into a modern transportation system has drawn praise and attention, positioning Thessaloniki as a cultural destination for both residents and visitors. With its long-awaited metro now operational, the city is poised to showcase its heritage in a new and innovative way.
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