Archaeologists discover Roman-era "hotel" in northern Greece

The discovery was announced at the 14th Archaeological Symposium in the northern port city of Thessaloniki on Friday.

Archaeologists said the remains of the complex were found in the centre of ancient Dion and consist of a large building around a central courtyard with several, equal-sized and well-appointed rooms next to a smaller building.

An inscription in Latin was also discovered that names the doners of the equipment of a praetorium, or commandant's house.

The building is also equipped with rooms for holding symposia and a sacrificial altar.

The "hotel" is believed to be dated at around the 2nd century AD and is thought to have been used either as a luxury accommodation for visiting state officials of the Roman Empire, or a praetor´s residence.

Archaeologists said that it is the first building that retains all its original fixtures and is accompanied by a complete list of its equipment.

(dpa)