The Ioannina plateau, rich in waters, animals, and vegetation, becomes home to the tribe of the Molossians, who established themselves here in the 1st millennium BCE. The Molossians were the most glorious ancient nation in Epirus. They were descendants of Achilles, the hero of the Trojan War, and controlled the powerful oracle of Dodona. Somewhere around here, in the land called Passaron by the ancient writers, they gathered along with representatives of other Epirote tribes to take an oath of respect for their laws and to offer a sacrifice to Zeus Areios. Excavations at Kastri hill brought to light a fortified settlement that seems important and affluent; it also had an impressive temple. Older researchers believe that this is the site of Passaron, but there is no definitive proof.