Prehistoric Settlement of Agios Mamas (Toumba)

While Halkidiki is famous for its classical ancient cities, its history goes back much further. Located near the modern village of Agios Mamas, the ‘Toumba’ of Agios Mamas is one of the most significant prehistoric settlements in Northern Greece, offering vital clues about human life thousands of years before the classical era.

What is a “Toumba”?

When visiting the site, do not expect to see marble temples or grand columns. A ‘Toumba’ is a large, artificial mound created over millennia. As ancient prehistoric communities built their mud-brick houses, lived, and eventually rebuilt over the ruins of previous generations, the ground level slowly rose, forming a massive hill. The Toumba of Agios Mamas stands as a towering time capsule of human habitation.

The Excavations and Discoveries

Systematic excavations by archaeologists have cut deep into the mound, revealing a continuous timeline of life from the Late Neolithic period (around 5000 BC) through the Early Bronze Age, and all the way to the Early Iron Age.

The site is famous for:

• Mycenaean Pottery: The discovery of imported Mycenaean ceramics proved that this early Halkidiki settlement had strong trade connections with Southern Greece.
• Early Metalworking: Evidence of early copper processing and ancient kilns shows the advanced skills of these prehistoric inhabitants.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Location: Just outside the village of Agios Mamas (between Nea Moudania and the Kassandra peninsula).
• What to expect: The site is an open landscape feature (a prominent hill with excavation trenches) rather than a developed tourist park. It is best suited for deep history enthusiasts.
• Where to see the artifacts: Since the settlement consists of earth and foundation traces, all the actual physical artifacts (the impressive prehistoric pottery, tools, and jewelry) have been carefully moved and are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Polygyros.

History buffs should definitely combine a quick stop at the Toumba with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Polygyros to see the ancient findings.