A unique building complex, in which the continuous systematic excavations of recent years (from 2012 to the present), together with the rich finds and remains, define the historical, social and economic context of the area
Afneios was the city of Corinth in all periods of its long history, in the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman, Proto-Byzantine.
This is the conclusion of the study of the many excavations carried out in the area of Corinth and in Corinth in general. Among them, a special place is occupied by the excavation of the Roman House at the “Katounistra” Isthmus site of the Municipality of Loutraki – Perachora – Agioi Theodoros.
A unique building complex, in which the continuous systematic excavations of recent years (from 2012 to the present), together with the rich finds and remains, define the historical, social and economic context of the area.
The luxurious complex overlooking the Corinthian and Saronic gulfs dates back to the 2nd century AD. and consists of the mansion of approximately 1,700.00 m2, a bathroom of approximately 500,00 m2 and an open courtyard of, until last year’s excavation, 2,500,00 m2. It seems that the complex was gradually reduced and finally abandoned in the late 6th or early 7th century AD. following the general downward trend.
The mansion consists of 30 rooms defining two apartments of 13 rooms, on either side of a large space, measuring 15.00 x 12.00 m., which had a semicircular arch on the northern side. The space on its south side was in contact with an elongated rectangular vestibule.
From the preserved stone staircase steps it appears that the mansion had a floor of unknown surface. North-east of the mansion, at a distance of about 10.00 m, a section of a large bath was revealed consisting of 13 rectangular main rooms and 3 auxiliary rooms (praefurnia) arranged in two elongated axes oriented N-S.
South of the central core of the mansion and at a lower level, a large walled courtyard of the complex was revealed, the northern side of which is 60.00 m long, as wide as the central building. The courtyard communicated with the central core of the mansion through two imposing staircases. The eastern side of the courtyard has been exposed to a length of about 40 meters, but its continuation is visible. The courtyard gives a serious indication of its use as an open market.
The complex during its use underwent many renovations and modifications, part of it was abandoned as evidenced by infant burials in them. The individual parts of the complex, large areas, mansion, bathhouse, courtyard show that it probably belonged to a Corinthian official.
This systematic excavation, which for a number of years was financed by the Region of Peloponnese, continues today. What is revealed is not just a large building installation, but a mixed and significant project in which the design, the know-how of the construction, the technology of the materials, the abilities of the people, the utilitarian feasibility of the project and the transformation of the space over time are captured.
It also reveals the history of the Isthmus and Loutraki as “Thermes”, certifying the continuous existence of Loutraki from earlier times, with the continuous application of “Thermalism”. It turns out that the region of the Isthmus has always been the vital area of Corinth, constantly providing revenue to the city, adapting to the demands and possibilities of each era. And after the abolition of the Isthmian races, in the Early Byzantine period, the region of the Isthmus was distinguished for the great construction of basilicas and buildings.
The entire project is being excavated by a great team of archaeologists, with the support and assistance of the Association of Friends of the Perachora Museum, the president of the cultural Association “Floisvos” and all the residents of the area, many of whom participate voluntarily.
The Municipality of Loutraki-Perachora-Agios Theodoros, in addition to the great help it continuously offers, must “adopt” the area of the excavation, highlight it through a strategic “master plan”, to become an open visitor area, connected to the existing, landmark and special mark among the many advantages of Loutraki.
Text Source: Dr. Apostolos E. Papafotiou, Civil Engineer E.M.P., Economist E.K.P.A.
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