Ancient Agora of Athens, Athens (must see)

The ancient Agora of Athens sits below the sacred hill of the Acropolis. This massive site has the ruins of what was once a vast complex. In ancient times, the Agora was the heart of public life in Athens city-state. Over the centuries many administrative buildings, temples, altars, stoas and fountain houses were built around the open square. The square received its final form in the 2nd century A.D. Common citizens would come there to discuss politics and vote for the proposed laws. It was on this square that democracy was born and flourished.

In the year 507 B.C., Athenian leader Cleisthenes introduced a system of political reforms that he called demokratia, or “rule by the people.” This system was comprised of three separate institutions: one was the ekklesia, a sovereign governing body that wrote laws and dictated foreign policy; another was the boule, or a council of representatives from the ten Athenian tribes; and finally there was the dikasteria, the popular courts in which citizens argued cases before a group of lottery-selected jurors. Although this Athenian democracy would survive for only two centuries, it was one of ancient Greece’s most enduring contributions to the modern world.

Aside for being the city's political center, the Agora was also a place for religious ceremonies, commercial transactions, theatrical and musical events, and even athletic contests. The site is otherwise well marked and includes the remains of the ancient drainage system. Entry to the museum on site is included in the Agora ticket, and there are some fabulous artifacts that you can see there.

Why You Should Visit.
Democracy is one of the most enduring contributions ancient Greeks gifted to the modern world. It all started here, right at this place.
The temple is beautiful, and the site is well marked, including the remains of the ancient drainage system.

Tip:
The price of entry to the on-site museum is included in the Agora ticket. There are some fabulous artifacts that you can see. Water fountains and restrooms are also close-by.

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am-8pm (last admission 7:30pm)
Closed: Jan 1, Mar 25, May 1, Easter Sunday, Dec 25/26
Free admission days: Mar 6, Apr 18, May 18, the last weekend of September, Oct 25, every first Sunday from Nov 1-Mar 31