The Ancient Agora of Athens (the ancient market) was the heart of ancient Athens, the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, the religious and cultural centre, and the seat of justice. A visit to the archaeological site will give you the opportunity to become acquainted with the workings of Classical Athenian democracy.

The area of the Ancient Agora includes several important monuments & buildings, such as Thisio (Temple of Hephaeustus), Stoa of Attalos, Tholos, Temple of Ares & Bouleuterion.

The Temple of Hephaestus is also known as Thisio.  Thisio is the best-preserved ancient Greek temple; it remains standing largely as built. It is a Doric peripteral temple, and is located at the north-west side of the Agora, on top of the Agoraios Kolonos hill.  The Ancient Agora was the main spot of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, the religious and cultural centre!

The Stoa of Attalos was built by and named after King Attalos II of Pergamon who ruled between 159 BC and 138 BC. Today, the Stoa houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora. Its exhibits are mostly connected with the Athenian democracy. The collection of the museum includes clay, bronze and glass objects, sculptures, coins and inscriptions from the 7th to the 5th century BC, as well as pottery of the Byzantine period and the Turkish occupation.

Admission to the Ancient Agora costs 4 €, but if you are planning to visit Acropolis then you should buy Acropolis' Ticket (12 €) that includes free entrance to the Agora.

Images and Moments of Athens