Few visitors expect it, but one of the most evocative places of ancient history lies just two kilometres from Driades. Here, among rocks, caves and running water, Aristotle taught the young Alexander.
The philosopher and the prince
In 343 BC Philip II invited Aristotle, the greatest thinker of the age, to Macedonia to take charge of the education of his thirteen-year-old son, Alexander. Studying alongside him were young nobles of the court, many of whom later became Alexander’s generals and companions on the Asian campaign. The place chosen for the lessons was Mieza, a flourishing town at the foothills of Mount Vermio, far from the bustle of the court. Teacher and pupils spent about three years together — enough to leave their mark on all the history that followed.
The Nymphaeum: “Aristotle’s School”
At the site of Isvoria, next to the Kefalari spring, lies the Nymphaeum of Mieza, a sanctuary dedicated to the Nymphs that has been identified as Aristotle’s School. Visitors see the natural rocks with their caves, the carved sockets that once held the beams of a large stoa, and the water still flowing among the plane trees. The setting itself explains why this spot was chosen: peace, shade and nature — the ideal environment for conversation and thought.
More recent research has brought to light, next to the ancient theatre of Mieza, a large gymnasium complex that archaeologists associate with the education of the young Macedonian aristocracy. The picture of the “school” is thus being completed little by little, making a visit even more interesting.
The Macedonian Tombs of Lefkadia
A few kilometres further down, at Lefkadia, lies the most important group of Macedonian tombs in Greece. The Tomb of the Judgement impresses with its monumental two-storey façade. Its paintings show the deceased being led by Hermes before the judges of the Underworld — hence the name “of the Judgement”. The Tomb of the Palmettes takes its name from the painted flowers on its pediment, which still keep their colours, while the Tomb of Lyson and Kallikles stands out for the painted garlands and weapons inside. These monuments show the wealth and taste of Mieza in Hellenistic times.
The ancient theatre
The route ends at the ancient theatre of Mieza, built into the hillside with views over the plain. Small in size but full of atmosphere, it reminds you that Mieza was not just a school but a living town with a theatre, a gymnasium and sanctuaries.
Half a day, right next to the hotel
All of these sites are just a few kilometres from each other and from Driades, so the route is easily completed in half a day. Start at the Nymphaeum early in the morning, when the light filters through the plane trees, continue to Lefkadia and finish at the theatre. As the opening hours of the individual monuments change with the seasons, ask us before you set off. You will find more practical information on our Aristotle’s School page.
Would you like to experience it for yourself? Book your stay at Driades, just a few minutes from the centre of Naoussa.