New discoveries at an ancient site in Greece are revealing the remains of a sprawling royal complex where young Macedonians studied and trained — offering new clues about a school tied to one of history's most legendary rulers.The recent finds were announced by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, part of the Greek government, in early September.The excavation centers on Mieza, an ancient Macedonian city in northern Greece, where archaeologists have been uncovering a sprawling complex known as the Royal Gymnasium.ANCIENT PALACE DISCOVERY CHALLENGES THE MYTH BEHIND SPARTA'S RISE TO POWERIt has long been believed, based on ancient accounts, that a young Alexander the Great was taught by Aristotle at Mieza.The site dates to the reign of Philip II, Alexander the Great's father, in the fourth century B.C.Archaeologists in northern Greece are uncovering new remains at ancient Mieza, a site associated with Alexander the Great, depicted at left.(Bettmann via Getty Images; Hellenic Ministry of Culture)Archaeologists began excavating the site in 2024, gradually uncovering evidence of an expansive complex where young Macedonians studied, trained and dined.This year's excavation has focused on the eastern side of the complex, including the palaestra and the "Didaskaleion," or teaching area, where archaeologists identified lecture rooms with stone benches.'DIG OF THE CENTURY' BENEATH NOTRE DAME REVEALS MYSTERIOUS MARKINGS, ANCIENT SECRETSOne of the most significant discoveries was a three-part complex spanning more than 1,700 square feet within the Didaskaleion, or teaching area, according to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture.The space includes a central entry room and two banquet rooms with surviving mosaic floors and raised platforms that once held dining couches.Ancient accounts have long linked Mieza with Aristotle, pictured center, and the education of a young Alexander the Great, pictured at far left.
(Science Source/Photo Researchers History/Getty Images; Hellenic Ministry...