At the heart of the archaeological site of Palaiopolis in Samothrace, lies the Sanctuary of the Great Gods with its restored and fallen columns; the sanctuary hosted the Kaveiria mysteries, orgiastic and purifying rites with the equal participation of simple people and rulers from the whole known ancient world. Kaveiria, a mystic cult of enigmatic gods, similar to the Olympian gods Demeter and Hermes, promised those who were initiated moral improvement, remission of sins, and a heavenly afterlife. For this reason, people came from all around the world, Macedonian Kings, their descendants, and Roman lords, with rich votive offerings and valuable gifts; in order to gain the favour of the gods, they constructed elaborately decorated and impressive buildings, like the Rotunda of Arsinoe, donated by the queen of Egypt, which is the largest closed circular building of ancient Greek architecture.