Major conservation works are set to begin at the coastal archaeological site of Kynos in Livanates, Central Greece, following the approval of more than €2.78 million in EU funding.
The Archaeological Site of Kynos, located in Livanates, Municipality of Lokres, will undergo a major preservation and protection intervention after securing funding from the European Regional Development Fund under the “Central Greece 2021–2027” Programme.
The decision was announced by Regional Governor Fanis Spanos, who said the project aims to safeguard the site for future generations while also boosting cultural tourism in the region.
“We are preserving our cultural wealth while at the same time enhancing the tourism appeal of Central Greece,” Spanos said.
Major Preservation Works Planned
The project includes the construction of a new protective shelter to shield and showcase the excavated remains, along with the development of basic visitor facilities to improve access and the on-site experience.
Funding will also support:
- Ongoing archaeological research and documentation
- Additional technical and conservation studies
- Restoration works on architectural remains
- The supply or rental of specialist equipment needed for conservation
Regional authorities said the intervention responds to long-standing requests from local communities and cultural stakeholders to protect and enhance the site.
A Coastal Site of Exceptional Historical Value
Ancient Kynos is situated on a coastal hill overlooking the sea in Livanates and was systematically excavated between 1985 and 1995 by the 14th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities. The site is considered to be of high archaeological significance due to its long and continuous period of occupation.
Kynos was inhabited from the Late Neolithic period through to the Middle Byzantine era, making it one of the region’s most historically layered sites.
Among its most important features are:
- The remains of an organised Mycenaean settlement dating to the 12th century BC
- Early Hellenistic fortifications
- A partially submerged ancient breakwater, highlighting the site’s maritime role
One of the most remarkable discoveries from Kynos is a Late Helladic III Middle figurative krater depicting a naval battle — regarded as the oldest known representation of a sea battle in Europe. The artefact is now on display at the Archaeological Museum of Atalanti.
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