As part of a broader restoration and enhancement plan, accessibility for disabled visitors at the Kassope archaeological site in Preveza is being significantly improved through the use of electric wheelchairs. The Ministry of Culture’s interventions will focus on the ancient theater, which is part of the Integrated Spatial Investment “Ancient Theaters of Epirus,” developed and funded by the Region of Epirus through the Regional Operational Program “Epirus” – NSRF 2014-2020 and 2021-2027, covering both the mountainous hinterland and the plains and maritime routes.
“Ancient Kassope, founded in the 4th century BC in a strategic location with natural fortifications, is built on a small plateau on the western slopes of Zalongo at an altitude of approximately 550 meters. The terrain was considered ideal by the ancient Kassopaeans because it provided complete visual control of the area,” said Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni. She added: “Our plan for the Kassope archaeological site included a comprehensive intervention for its restoration and enhancement, as well as improving accessibility. Recently, restoration and enhancement works of the ancient theater were completed, and upgrades have been planned for the existing and the new, under-construction, parking area, the improvement of the dirt road leading to the site, and visitor reception facilities. The archaeological site will now feature electric wheelchairs to allow safe and comfortable movement for visitors with disabilities and mobility challenges. The vehicle enables a full tour of the site, from the entrance to the ancient theater, with stops at selected viewing and information points. This approach enhances inclusion and the cultural experience for all visitors without disrupting the site’s aesthetics or the integrity of the monuments.”
The environmentally friendly electric UTV-type vehicle requires no physical modifications to the site, leaves no footprint, operates silently, and can safely transport people with disabilities throughout the archaeological site, offering a complete experience of Ancient Kassope. The vehicle can carry up to four people and 250 kg of cargo, with a special configuration for a wheelchair. The suggested route includes stops at significant points in the site, offering panoramic views and access to the theater. The route begins at the reception-building-gate, follows the construction road, and includes stops at key monuments such as the agora, bouleuterion, prytaneion, crypt, and theater, with the option to disembark in the orchestra area. Return follows the same path without stops, while visitors with disabilities are also transported to and from the bus parking area. Informational signs with QR codes providing audiovisual material are placed at each stop.
Kassope was the administrative and religious center of the Kassopaeans. Organized as a polis-state modeled on nearby Ambracia, it developed quickly, reaching its peak in the late 3rd century BC when it joined the Epirote League, numbering around 8,000–10,000 inhabitants. Despite the Roman destruction of Epirus in 167 BC, Kassope recovered but was permanently abandoned with the founding of Nikopolis in 31 BC, when the Kassopaeans, along with residents of most surrounding cities, were relocated there. The area remained uninhabited in the following centuries.
