Published on
January 22, 2026
In a significant move to preserve the country’s rich Byzantine heritage, the Ministry of Culture of Greece has initiated a €1.5 million restoration project at the archaeological site of Maximianoupolis, a forgotten city located in the Rhodope plain of Thrace. This ancient Byzantine city, once a thriving hub in the Byzantine Empire, is gaining renewed attention as excavations and conservation work reveal the extensive historical treasures hidden within its walls.
The restoration focuses primarily on the ornate church at Maximianoupolis, a site that has been subject to significant degradation and structural instability over the years. The project is part of Greece’s broader efforts to preserve and promote its historical sites and will ensure that future generations of visitors can experience the unique blend of Byzantine architecture and history that Maximianoupolis offers.
The Church of Maximianoupolis: A Rare Byzantine Gem
At the heart of the restoration is the church at Maximianoupolis, which dates back to the 11th century. This church is particularly notable for its rare, irregular hexagonal shape, a feature that sets it apart from other Byzantine churches of the era. The church’s distinctive design, along with the extensive collection of Byzantine glazed ceramics and elaborate architectural features uncovered during excavations between 1999 and 2008, makes Maximianoupolis an important and unique site in the study of Byzantine history.
The restoration efforts are targeting key structural components, such as the marble iconostasis, which is a central feature of the church’s altar area, as well as the north and south arcosolia, which are arched tombs found in the narthex, and the southwest corner of the narthex. These areas of the church have suffered from material loss and degradation, making them critical to the overall stability of the site.
By stabilizing and restoring these key elements, the project aims to protect Maximianoupolis from further structural collapse and ensure that the church remains an accessible historical site for future tourists and researchers. As the restoration progresses, the church will once again become a focal point for visitors interested in Byzantine culture and history.
Maximianoupolis: A Gateway to Byzantine Thrace
The restoration of Maximianoupolis is not only an important archaeological and cultural project but also a key moment in the revival of Byzantine Thrace as a tourism destination. The Rhodope plain, where Maximianoupolis is located, offers a rich historical landscape that tells the story of the Byzantine Empire’s reach in southeastern Europe. This region, which has long been overlooked by tourists, is now poised to become a destination for those interested in exploring Greece’s Byzantine past.
Visitors to Maximianoupolis can expect to see more than just the restored church. Excavations at the site have uncovered an array of extensive burials, providing insight into the city’s historical population. In addition to the church, visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient city walls, residential areas, and other religious buildings, all of which provide a glimpse into the urban layout and daily life in Byzantine Thrace.
The site’s proximity to other historical landmarks in the Rhodope region, including the ancient cities of Philippi and Pella, makes Maximianoupolis a perfect stop for travelers interested in a comprehensive tour of ancient Greek and Byzantine history. The region’s rich cultural landscape, combined with the newly restored church at Maximianoupolis, is expected to draw increasing numbers of history and archaeology enthusiasts to Thrace in the coming years.
Restoration Project Funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility
The restoration project is being funded through the Recovery and Resilience Facility, part of the European Union’s broader efforts to support cultural heritage and sustainable tourism in Greece and other member states. The funding ensures that the restoration work is carried out to the highest standards, with expert conservationists and archaeologists overseeing the process. This investment in preserving Maximianoupolis is a testament to the EU’s commitment to safeguarding Europe’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.
With its focus on conservation and historical preservation, the project aligns with Greece’s broader strategy of promoting sustainable tourism. By investing in the restoration of sites like Maximianoupolis, the government hopes to attract more visitors to less-visited regions of the country while ensuring that these sites remain protected and preserved for the future.
A Future for Maximianoupolis: Tourism and Cultural Engagement
As the restoration progresses, Maximianoupolis is expected to become a prominent site on the map for travelers interested in Byzantine history and archaeology. The site’s unique blend of historical, architectural, and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore Greece’s hidden gems.
The restoration also provides an opportunity for local communities to engage with their heritage and contribute to the region’s growing tourism economy. With the improved infrastructure and increased visitor interest, Maximianoupolis has the potential to become a key cultural and educational hub, attracting tourists, researchers, and scholars from around the world.
As Greece continues to invest in the preservation of its ancient cities and landmarks, Maximianoupolis stands as an example of the country’s commitment to cultural heritage and sustainable tourism. For those looking to experience the lesser-known treasures of Greece, Maximianoupolis is an unmissable stop that offers a deep dive into the Byzantine past and a unique perspective on the country’s rich history.
