AIANI- ANCIENT CITY (Code: )

Aiani is located approximately 20 km. south of Kozani and was, therefore, within the region of the ancient kingdom of Elimeia which, along with  the rest of the Greek kingdoms (Tymphaia, Orestis, Lyncestis, Eordaia, Pelagonia and Derriopos) constituted the ancient Upper (i.e. mountainous) Macedonia. According to the foundation myth preserved by Stephanus Byzantius, Aiani “city of Macedonia” was founded by Aianos, son of  Elymos, the founder of Elimeia or Elimiotis. The existence of the ancient city of Aiani is documented by two inscriptions found in the area.