The "New" Ancient City

Discovering Kavala...

Dear Classical Wisdom Reader,

You wake up at sea, the majestic Greek coastline out your balcony. Your ship is coming to call in Kavala, an storied port town which once marked the eastern boundary of ancient Rome’s European empire. 

Known for its rich history and strategic location on the Aegean Sea, Kavala was originally called Neapolis, meaning "New City" in Greek. It was founded by settlers from the island of Thassos in the 7th century BC and became a key port city during the Hellenistic period, under the rule of the Macedonian kings, particularly Philip II and his son Alexander the Great.

Stepping on land, you wander under the Kavala’s acropolis before crossing the plain to Philippi where, in 42 BCE, the armies of Antony and Octavian defeated the forces of Brutus and Cassius. You stand on the very spot where St. Paul visited in 49 CE, where it is believed he delivered his first sermon on European soil and baptized his first European convert, St. Lydia. 

Exploring the substantial remains of the site, including a forum, theater, and several early basilicas, you take in the warm afternoon sun and gentle breeze before returning to the ship for dinner, drinks or perhaps a dip in the jacuzzi. 

Of course, that’s just one day... In fact, Kavala is just one of many fantastic stops on our fall 2024 voyage, which explores dozens of ancient sites across Turkey, Greece, and the Greek Islands and Cyprus. Other days you’ll take in Ephesus, one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological sites, or traipse exquisite floor mosaics found in Paphos, which Virgil called “the navel of the world,” as well as countless medieval towns, ancient castles and of course the stunning sea itself.

From Knossos and Kusadasi to Priene, Philippi and Paphos, you will remember this journey as a trip of a lifetime. And perhaps, you’ll recall the day you decided to go... and clicked this link to learn more and begin your adventure: 

Learn more about our September 2024 trip HERE.

All the best,

Anya Leonard

Founder and Director

Classical Wisdom 

PS: There is limited space on this voyage and cabins are already being snatched up. In fact, for those who have been following along, we were lucky to secure a few more cabins after our original allotment sold out...however these few remaining rooms will be opened up to the other group by the end of the week. So please make sure to take advantage of this opportunity and secure your spot, before they are all taken.