The Sanctuary of Dionysus

The worship of Dionysus in the wider area of Drama is known even in Roman times. Over the years the cult has remained in the area with various configurations, adapted to each period and depending on the conditions. Today, an echo of the cult of Dionysus is the traditional carnival of Kali Vrysis, which is the continuation of the ancient rural Dionysus that took place in the area. The Dionysian cult is equally well-known in the present-day city of Drama and in the surrounding villages, which every year re-enact the Dionysian events, as a ceremony to mark the beginning of spring. The existence of the Dionysian cult sanctuary of early Hellenistic times in Kali Vrysi, which is preserved in a fairly good condition, is the most tangible proof of the influence that the god had in the area and the importance that the inhabitants of that time had attributed to him.
The Sanctuary is located in the “small tumba” position, it is 2.5 kilometers from Kali Vrysi and dominates the entire Aggitis river valley, on a plateau that has been an important place and a valuable passage in different times, as it is located between the mountains Menoikio and Falakro and a short distance from the Cave of the Springs of the Aggitis River.
Dionysus, the masked god of Ecstasy and the fertility of the earth, of Love and joy, chose this area with his procession as his favorite refuge. The place loved him like no other. The Sanctuary of the god in Kali Vrysi and the Events during the Epiphany period attest to this relationship of worship. This relationship was sealed with the enormous flourishing of viticulture in the region.
In the area of the Sanctuary, the marble bust of the god Dionysos was found which dates back to Roman times and is housed in the Archaeological Museum of Drama.
Today the Sanctuary of Dionysos is a place to visit where, after careful excavation, the greatness of the sanctuary was fully revealed. The area is guarded with fencing to prevent damage and theft, a canopy that contributes to the protection of both the sanctuary and the visitors from adverse weather conditions. There is ample parking as well as paved road leading to the sanctuary.
To visit the Sanctuary of Dionysus, contact the Archaeological Museum of Drama.