Prehistoric Settlement of Dispilio

On the shores of Lake Orestiada, just a few kilometers outside Kastoria, lies the Prehistoric Settlement of Dispilio, one of the most significant Neolithic lake dwellings in Greece. Discovered in 1992, the settlement dates back to the 6th millennium BC and provides valuable insights into the daily life of the region’s earliest agricultural and livestock-farming communities.

The dwellings in Dispilio were built on wooden platforms supported by stilts, an architectural design that protected them from the lake’s water levels. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including tools, ceramics, jewelry, and wooden structures, showcasing the technological advancements of the inhabitants. Particularly remarkable is the discovery of a wooden tablet engraved with symbols, considered one of the earliest forms of writing.

In addition to the prehistoric settlement, remnants of a wall dating back to the 5th century BC, built during the reign of King Archelaus, have also been found in the area. The archaeological collection of Dispilio offers visitors a comprehensive view of the organization, economy, and daily life of Neolithic societies.

Today, Dispilio is a living archaeological site where visitors can experience firsthand the way of life of the region’s first inhabitants, traveling back in time to the dawn of organized human presence.