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Greece is developing the archaeological site on Ithaca associated with Odysseus’ legendary palace

Sanziana Georgescu

23 October 2026, 06:07

International

Supplied by LMK / Landmark / Profimedia

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Greece has unanimously approved a plan to develop the archaeological site at Agios Athanasios, on the island of Ithaca, which some researchers associate with Odysseus’ legendary palace. The project aims to allow visitors access to the remains, also known as the “School of Homer,” while protecting the landscape and ancient structures.

The site is located in the north of the island, on the slopes of Mount Exoghi. The plan approved by the Central Archaeological Council includes visitor paths, information panels, benches, restrooms, and facilities for people with disabilities.

The area was researched by a team from the University of Ioannina between 1994 and 2012. Archaeologists identified a large fortified complex, with remains dating from several periods, from the Bronze Age to the Hellenistic period.

However, the association with the palace described in the “Odyssey” has not been definitively proven. Greek authorities have not yet announced when the work will begin or be completed, nor when the site will open to the public.

Interest in the story of Odysseus has also grown recently thanks to the film “The Odyssey,” directed by Christopher Nolan.

Context: “The Odyssey” brought a wave of attention to Greece, including through tourism data and political reactions

Before the plan for the site on Ithaca was approved, the film “The Odyssey” (directed by Christopher Nolan) had been at the center of numerous reactions and estimates: Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis congratulated Nolan in a teleconference, saying that the production had helped revive interest in the civilization of ancient Greece. He also mentioned that filming took place in Greece, at locations in Messenia and Corinthia.

Meanwhile, data published by EasyJet Holidays indicated an increase in bookings for Greek destinations after the film’s release, with spikes in the first week of August for Greece (including Corfu, the Peloponnese, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos), while significant takings were reported in markets such as the United States and Italy. The film also generated discussions related to the 70 mm IMAX format and limited access to cinemas equipped with this technology.