I visited this site recently (August 2024) and would like to share my experience, particularly regarding the palace. I hiked up towards the palace from the Royal Tombs at Aigai; it took about 25 minutes. Along the gravel path, I had to pass through some private properties. Fortunately, the owners are okay with visitors passing through, though the road signs could be clearer.

At the palace site, a few Doric columns and remnants of mosaics still stand, offering a glimpse into its former grandeur. According to the information board, this palace was the largest building in Classical Greece. It’s fascinating to think that the nearby theater is the very place where Philip II was assassinated. Additionally, it was within this palace that Alexander the Great was proclaimed king of the Macedonians.

There are a few staff members present to ensure visitors don’t step on marble stones or do anything inappropriate. I wish they could improve the facilities at this site, such as adding a small information center or even just placing ladders beside the mosaics so that I could see them more clearly.

Standing at the palace, it’s easy to understand why Philip II chose this location. The palace overlooks the northern plains, with hills and dense forests to the south, offering a strategic and scenic vantage point. It’s no wonder Philip II preferred Aigai Palace over the capital city of the Macedonian Kingdom, Pella, which is about 45 km north of Aigai/Vergina.

I also visited Pella (not included in WHS) as a side trip. The Archaeological Museum of Pella is quite informative. I recommend visiting the museum first, then exploring the Pella Archaeological Park. The Agora and Dionysos Mosaic House are the highlights.