Ancient Agora of Athens: Tickets

Ancient Agora of Athens FAQs

• What was the Ancient Agora of Athens used for?
• The Ancient Agora would have been the centre of public life in Athens, serving as a marketplace, political hub, and social gathering place.
• What are the must-see sites in the Ancient Agora?
• We think the key sites to see are the Stoa of Attalos, Temple of Hephaestus, Odeon of Agrippa, and the Tholos.
• Is there a museum in the Ancient Agora?
• Yes, the Stoa of Attalos houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which displays artefacts from the site.
• What is the Temple of Hephaestus?
• It is one of the best-preserved Greek temples at the Ancient Agora of Athens that was dedicated to Hephaestus and Athena.
• Can you visit the Ancient Agora with a ticket for the Acropolis?
• Yes, we offer a combination ticket giving you access to both the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. Click HERE for our combination ticket.
• What is the significance of the Stoa of Attalos?
• Originally a covered walkway, the Stoa of Attalos was reconstructed and now serves as a museum.
• How long does it take to visit the Ancient Agora?
• We suggest spending at least 1.5 hours there to enjoy it, but it is entirely up to you.
• Is the Ancient Agora accessible for people with disabilities?
• Some areas are accessible, but the terrain is uneven, and assistance may be needed in certain parts.
• What is the best time to visit the Ancient Agora?
• Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the heat and also the crowds can be smaller at those times.
• What can I see in the Museum of the Ancient Agora?
• The museum features artefacts such as pottery, coins, sculptures, and tools that illustrate daily life in ancient Athens.

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Ancient Agora of Athens Fun Facts

• Democracy's Birthplace: The Agora is often called the birthplace of democracy. This is where citizens gathered to discuss and vote on important issues, making it one of the earliest examples of direct democracy.
• Philosophical Discussions: Famous philosophers like Socrates and Plato frequently walked the Agora. Socrates was known to engage Athenians in philosophical discussions here, contributing to its legacy as a centre of intellectual thought.
• Meeting Place for Juries: The Agora housed the Heliaia, which was the supreme court of ancient Athens. Citizens would gather here to serve as jurors in trials, making it a key site in the Athenian legal system.
• Role in Commerce: Besides its political significance, the Agora was a bustling marketplace where Athenians traded goods, making it a vital part of the city's economy.
• Socrates' Trial: Socrates was tried and sentenced to death in 399 BCE at the Agora. His trial is one of the most famous in history, and it took place within the Heliaia or another nearby court.
• Library of Pantainos: The Agora housed one of the earliest public libraries, the Library of Pantainos, which was established in the late 1st century AD.
• Statue of Apollo Patroos: The Agora featured a famous statue of Apollo Patroos, made by the sculptor Euphranor. Apollo Patroos was worshipped as the protector of families.
• ‍Excavations and Discoveries: Excavations of the Agora began in the 19th century and continue to this day. Archaeologists have unearthed countless artefacts, providing invaluable insights into ancient Athenian life.