Mesimvria-Zone, a colony of Samothrace established in the late 7th century BC, was initially founded to meet the mother city's need for agricultural products and facilitate trade with the Thracian tribes of the hinterland. However, its original agricultural character quickly shifted, and by the 6th century BC, trade and maritime transport of goods proved to be both secure and highly profitable. As a result, the city rapidly developed into a significant commercial hub and flourished during the 5th and 4th centuries BC. The city's economic prosperity is evidenced by its contribution of two talents to the treasury of the First Athenian League. However, the rise of Athenian power in the region, the imposition of heavy taxes on Samothrace’s colonies, and possibly other events for which no written historical records exist, gradually led to the city's decline. According to some sources, Aesop, the renowned ancient fabulist, is believed to have originated from this city. The archaeological site of Mesimvria includes remnants of the Sanctuary of Demeter and the Temple of Apollo. On the western side lies the main part of the city, where two public buildings and an impressive area containing dozens of traditional storage jars (pithoi) can be found.

The site is open to visitors daily from 8:30 to 15:00. 
Address: Alexandroupolis, Evros Prefecture. 
Phone: +30 25510 96214. 
Tickets: General Admission: €2, Reduced: €1