Description of the attraction
In the heart of Athens, northwest of the Acropolis, lie the ruins of the Ancient agora. During the period of ancient Greece (approximately from the beginning of the 6th century BC) it was the political, financial, administrative, cultural and religious center of the ancient city, second only in importance to the Acropolis. Here justice was done, trade deals were made, athletic and theatrical competitions were held. It is worth noting that it was through the Ancient Agora that the famous Panathenaean path leading to the Acropolis ran, along which solemn processions marched during the so-called Panathineas (religious and political festivals in honor of the patroness of the city, the goddess Athena). Today, the Ancient Agora is one of the most interesting and popular sights of the capital, as well as an important archaeological and historical monument.
The first excavations of the Ancient Agora were carried out in the second half of the 19th century by the Greek Archaeological Society and the German Archaeological Institute. Systematic work began already in the 20th century by the American School of Classical Studies in Athens. The results of the excavations were so impressive that at the state level they decided to demolish a huge number of modern buildings in order to still be able to establish the boundaries of the Ancient agora.
The colossal work carried out by archaeologists made it possible to determine the location and purpose of many different structures, both public and administrative, and religious - the temples of Hephaestus, Apollo and Aphrodite, the standing of Zeus, the Tsar's standing, the so-called Tholos (the seat of the government of Ancient Athens), the mint, Altar of the Twelve Gods, Metroon, Odeon of Agrippa and more.
Today, on the eastern edge of the agora, stands the impressive Stand of Attala, a reconstruction of the original structure (2nd century BC), erected in the middle of the 20th century. The gallery is not only of a certain architectural interest, but is also home to the Museum of the Agora. The exposition of the museum presents unique ancient artifacts found during excavations of the agora and its environs and perfectly illustrating the history of the ancient city. The earliest exhibits date back to the 4th millennium BC.
