THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, is set to unveil its new subway system, which not only promises to modernize transportation but also features a fascinating array of archaeological findings uncovered during its long construction process.
The inaugural metro line, stretching 9.6 kilometers, is scheduled to officially open on November 30. This line will utilize driverless trains equipped with platform screen doors, reflecting advancements in modern transit technology. Initial construction began in 2003, revealing a treasure trove of historical artifacts beneath the bustling city, home to nearly a million inhabitants.
Transport and Infrastructure Minister Christos Staikouras emphasized the significance of the project during a recent media tour, stating, “This project offers a remarkable blend of the ancient and modern, integrating archaeological heritage with metro infrastructure.”
Throughout the tunneling process, workers followed ancient commercial routes in the continuous settlement of this port city, which dates back to antiquity. They uncovered a Roman-era road, Greek burial sites, intricate mosaics, ancient water and drainage systems, inscriptions, and a vast collection of artifacts that span multiple historical periods, including Byzantine and Ottoman influences.
To safeguard these ancient discoveries, the construction team had to bore tunnels deeper than initially planned, resulting in increased expenses and delays.
Key archaeological finds have been showcased in the new subway network, which consists of 13 stations, including a notable display of a marble-paved Roman thoroughfare at Venizelou Station, located centrally.
Despite facing over 300,000 archaeological discoveries, many of which are now presented at various stations along the main line, Staikouras noted that the project has turned a corner. “The project faced substantial delays and many challenges, yet it now stands as a testament to our historical legacy,” he remarked.
The idea for the Thessaloniki metro dates back more than a century, and its completion has generated a quiet amazement among residents, many of whom have long regarded the metro project as a punchline due to its prolonged bureaucratic delays and broken promises.
As of now, the total investment in the first line has reached approximately 3 billion euros ($3.1 billion). The consortium responsible for this significant undertaking comprises Greece’s Aktor, Italy’s Webuild, and Japan’s Hitachi Rail. The completion of the first line is just the beginning, as a second line is already under construction and is expected to be operational within a year.
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