Hoplite

One of the rarest fortifications of the Hellenistic period, the stone-built tower of Agia Marina of Kea, is in grand danger likely because of intense weather conditions and neglectfulness. First constructed in the 4th c. BC The tower is square (10X10 m), five-storey, 20m height; approximately bowsprit made from local slate and marble (context exposures, angles, top floor). It is an example of a single fortified tower of the Hellenistic period, one of the highest surviving ancient buildings. In the hinterland of Kea, between the cities and Korisias and Poiiessa, worked as a defensive fortification to protect the surrounding rural area. Around 1600, it was founded the monastery of Agia Marina, the tower was included in the precinct also for defensive reasons. On the 8th of September 1858 the tower was collapsed following an earthquake and some of the material used for the repair of neighboring buildings and is in decline ever since. The north side of the tower survives, while the others have been collapsed. The conservation status is considered by the Ministry of Culture as dangerous.

This unique monument, which is considered a symbol of Kea, was a usual  attraction for the tourists, some of which reported in the early 19th century that the monument was kept in very good condition. A few days ago the Greek Society for Environment and the Culture raised money for a study of scaffolding support of the Kea’s tower during a weekend of cultural events in cooperation with the municipality of the island.

Source: To Vima and the Ministry of Culture, 11/09/2009

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