The Lakeside Village of Dispilio (GR)
The lakeside village of Dispilio is 8 kilometres from Kastoria. Although the archaeological site is known since the 1930s, systematic excavations started in 1992, by Professor Nikos Hourmouziadis of the Aristotle University, Thessaloniki.
By now, a settlement has been uncovered which dates to the mid-Neolithic period, i.e. the middle of the 6th millennium BC. The finds include stone, bone, flint, ceramics and for example even basketry.
A short distance from the exhibition area, 8 dwellings have been reconstructed by the lake between 1997 and 1999. The huts are constructed in the lake and at the lake shore in an area next to the archaeological site. The huts are fully equipped and furnished. An earthen cover in the middle of the settlement served to protect the fire, and there is a log boat moored at the lakeside, which the inhabitants would have used for fishing.
The Aristotle University of Thessaloniki is responsible for the excavation. Also the studies for the reconstruction and the museum were elaborated by them. Since the official opening in 1999 the site is managed by the Municipality and is open to the public.