Alternate Culture Minister Nikos Xydakis visited the ancient tomb site of Amphipolis on Saturday where he more-or-less shocked accompanying archaeologists by saying that the now internationally renowned project would not receive more state funding.

Asked about future funding so that the mystery surrounding the tomb’s occupants can be solved, Xydakis said the excavation has already received enough funding. “There are not many excavations in Greece that have received such support … There is no need for more right now.”

He was shown the site, located in the eastern third of the province of Macedonia, by lead archaeologist Katerina Peristeri, while accompanied by Macedonia-Thrace Deputy Minister Maria Kollia-Tsaroucha.

The tomb, that dates back from the time of Alexander the Great, was found to have five skeletons and various other artefacts. Archaeologists are currently focusing on the study of findings and ensuring that the tumulus does not collapse. Xydakis referred to giving the tomb “breathing space.”

“We are not looking for dead celebrities,” Zydakis opined, adding that what matters now is finding “historic truths.”

“Is it so important? Will it change something for Macedonia if we say that in this tomb is Alexander the Great’s third grandson?” he asked … rhetorically. “Macedonia is what it is. The people that live here will continue to be the same. We have many historic and archaeological finds to have a very wealthy, prolific and very creative historic identity. We do not need to continuously confirm it.”

Xydakis said Amphipolis has had its share and the time has come to fund new excavations…