The Lakeside Settlement of Dispilio: A Glimpse into Neolithic Life in Kastoria

By Ioannis Dislias – AllChoices24

Located on the shores of Lake Orestiada near the village of Dispilio in Kastoria, Northern Greece, the Lakeside Settlement of Dispilio offers one of the most fascinating windows into Europe’s Neolithic past. Accidentally discovered in 1932 when the lake’s water level dropped, the site began systematic excavation in 1992 under the direction of Professor George Hourmouziadis of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

Dating back to around 5600 BC, the settlement is one of the oldest known lake dwellings in Europe. The prehistoric inhabitants constructed their homes on wooden platforms supported by stakes either above or beside the water—an early example of adaptive living in harmony with the natural environment.

Excavations have uncovered a wealth of daily life artifacts: stone and bone tools, ceramic vessels, fishing equipment, musical instruments (including the oldest known wooden flute in Europe), and a significant number of preserved wooden objects, thanks to the moist conditions of the lake. The most notable find is the Dispilio Tablet, a wooden plaque inscribed with mysterious symbols that may represent a form of early proto-writing.

Today, visitors can explore a faithfully reconstructed lakeside village at the open-air archaeological site and museum. The wooden huts, crafted according to excavation data, provide an immersive experience of life more than 7,000 years ago. The site serves both as a museum and an educational park, attracting scientists, school groups, and travelers interested in prehistoric cultures.

Visiting Hours:

Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed on major holidays. Visiting hours may vary seasonally.

Access Information:

The Lakeside Settlement of Dispilio is just 7 kilometers from the city of Kastoria and easily accessible by car via the Kastoria–Argos Orestiko provincial road. Free parking is available near the entrance. Public transportation is limited, so private travel is recommended. The site includes informational signage in Greek and English and is partially accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.

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