At the highest and narrowest point of the low pass between Volo and Velestino, ten kilometres from the former and seven from the latter, upon a low spur projecting into the pass, is situated the tumulus known by the Turkish name of Piláf-Tepé. This tumulus is different from all the other numerous tumuli of Thessaly not only because of its greater size and more conical shape, but also in that it is placed upon a hill while the rest lie in the plain. These peculiarities, combined with the fact that it is situated nearly halfway along the high road between the ancient Pherae and its port Pagasae, were sufficient to point it out as a promising site for excavation. Local theorists were divided between three opinions. Some said the tumulus was prehistoric, others suggested that it contained the tomb of some prince of Pherae, while others again insisted upon attributing it to the Turkish occupation.