Ancient Mines at Holy Trinity

The mines in the area of Lavrio are among the oldest in Greece, with evidence of mining activity dating back to as early as 3000 BC. Their systematic exploitation, however, began with the establishment of Athenian democracy in 508 BC under Cleisthenes. During the Classical period (5th and 4th centuries BC), the Lavrio mines constituted the primary source of wealth for Athens. One of the earliest references to their importance is linked to the minting of the Athenian drachma, among the first silver coinages in the ancient world, around 580 BC. Their productivity declined following Athens’ defeat in the Peloponnesian War but was partially restored during the era of Lykourgos in the 4th century BC. Mining activity eventually ceased in the 2nd century BC, as excavations reached depths of approximately 100 metres and encountered groundwater infiltration, while the processing of the ore became increasingly difficult under Roman administration. As a result, the Lavrio mines lost their leading position in global silver production, which they had maintained for nearly a millennium. An architectural survey of the archaeological site was conducted at the “Holy Trinity” (Hagia Triada) area of Lavrio, with the aim of its landscape integration and transformation into an organized, visitor-accessible site.