This reconstruction, housed in the Archaeological Museum of Eleusis, is a meticulously crafted, architectural model that reproduces the ancient city of Eleusis around the 4th century BC, at scale. It accurately depicts the decentralised Acropolis, the substantial Propylaea, and the voluminous Telesterion – the ceremonial hall for Eleusinian Mysteries. Additionally, numerous precisely modeled elements including smaller temples, houses, walls, and thoroughfares contribute to a comprehensive visualisation of the historical metropolis.
Constructed from a combination of polystyrene, plastics, and wood, the model applies color schemes mimicking the palettes of original materials such as stone, clay, and marble. The surface texture represents the natural topography, and the structural details exhibit the distinct features of ancient Grecian architecture.
This artifact serves as an accurate visual representation of the city's ancient plan, offering an interactive exploration of historic urban planning methodologies and architectural techniques in Greece. Each element has been situated in its historically validated location, underscoring the topographical, archaeological, and historical relevance of the model.
The level of detail reflected in the reconstruction encapsulates archaeological data gleaned from decades of excavation efforts in Eleusis, revealing it as a product of extensive research and skilled craftsmanship. Notably, small yet significant features such as the Eleusinian Triptoemnos-Stoa and the modifications from the Roman era are discernible, thus tracing the city's layered history under different rules.
The model further highlights the profound religious elements of ancient Greek society. A primary focus is the Sanctuary of Demeter and Kore, linked to the Eleusinian Mysteries, the long-standing religious rituals. The incorporation of these structures imparts an understanding of the sociopolitical structure in Eleusis and its cultural relevance.
