Point of interest
Ancient Agora & Temple of Hephaestus
in Athens, Greece
The political and social heart of classical Athens where democracy and philosophy took root, anchored by the remarkably intact Temple of Hephaestus.
Where it is
Northwest of the Acropolis, between the Monastiraki and Thiseio districts, with the main entrance on Adrianou Street.
Address: 24 Αδριανού, 105 55 Athens
What it is
The large, green site lets you wander among the Temple of Hephaestus and the foundations of public buildings. The reconstructed Stoa of Attalos (1952–56) houses the Agora Museum, with objects connected to Athenian democracy. The walk is quieter than the Acropolis and pairs well with neighbouring Monastiraki.
History
For centuries the Agora was the political, commercial and social heart of ancient Athens and a cradle of democracy. Systematic excavations have been carried out by the American School of Classical Studies since 1931. The Doric Temple of Hephaestus, god of the forge, was built around 460–420 BC and is considered the best-preserved temple in Greece.