Maroneia was founded by Chian colonists on the SW slopes of Ismaros, in the mid-7th century B.C. and soon developed into a prosperous and densely inhabited city-state. According to tradition, the mythical founder (oikistes) of the city was Maron, a priest of Apollo. Homer describes Maron's hospitality and the gifts that he offered to Ulysses when he visited the land of the Kikones. During the Classical period the city had a strong fortification wall, 10 km. long, enclosing an area of 4 sq.km., which extended from the coast up to the top of Ismaros.


Excavations of the site started in the late 1960's and have brought to light:

The theatre of the city, in which two architectural phases are distinguished, dated to the Hellenistic and Roman periods

A sanctuary, probably of Dionysos, dated to the 4th century B.C.

A large Hellenistic house with a mosaic floor

Two extensive building complexes, most probably of public function, also dated to the Hellenistic period

Parts of the fortification wall of the Classical city.

Restricted restoration work is carried out at the architectural remains.


The most important monuments of the site are:

1) The Ancient Theatre.

It was constructed in the Hellenistic period and remodelled in Roman times. Preserved are: three rows of stone seats of the cavea, the central and the horseshoe-shaped conduit of the orchestra, and the building of the Roman skene.


2) Sanctuary of Dionysos.

The sanctuary, probably dedicated to Dionysos, is built on a terrace supported by a retaining wall. Parts of two more buildings have been revealed to the north and south of the sanctuary, which is dated to the 4th century B.C.


3) "House of the mosaic".

Large, private house, preserving a mosaic floor in the men's quarters (andron). Dated to the end of the 4th or the beginning of the 3rd century B.C.


4) Roman propylon.

Monumental gate, constructed probably during the reign of emperor Hadrian (124-125 A.D.).