A burial complex dating from the Roman period and discovered during excavation works in Manikata will be surrounded by a block of 23 apartments and seven penthouses, sparking outrage at the “disrespect towards our cultural

Photographs showing the walled-up burial tomb in the midst of the excavation site have drawn the condemnation of environmental NGOs and hundreds of

The site appears to contain an already despoiled small classical period burial complex with four chambers – some having head rests and lamp holders – but seems to have been used for domestic uses or for the keeping of animals at a later period.

A Mepa spokesman said the site was initially granted a development permit in 2009. No archaeological monitoring conditions were set because the archaeological features were yet undiscovered.

The remains were discovered during the excavation works, which were stopped jointly by SCH and Mepa and a new application was requested after a full archaeological survey  of the area.

A new application was filed taking into account the archaeological features. The plans were accepted in 2011 and works only ensued on condition that an archaeologist monitors the work so that no new archaeological remains are encountered and disturbed. 

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