The Agora (Athens)

The ancient Agora of Athens was at the heart of Greek civilisation for centuries, home to political, civic and commercial life. It is one of the major highlights on cheap city breaks to Athens, and much of it has aged remarkably well. A jumble of stately buildings, temples and imposing statues, you can stroll around the Agora and really get a sense of its scale and sophistication. It is easy to imagine its maze of streets teeming with ancient market sellers, soldiers, philosophers and scheming politicians. It is located just below the majestic Acropolis, giving it an imposing backdrop.

 

The most captivating sites at the Agora include the remains of the Odeion of Agrippa arena and the Temple of Hephaistos which is among the most well preserved monuments of ancient Greece to be found anywhere. A browse around the Stoa of Attalos is a must which now functions as the Agora museum and houses a wealth of priceless relics from the days of the Greeks, the Romans and Ottoman eras. There are numerous fascinating exhibits to discover during short breaks in Athens, which range from everyday items such as cooking utensils and weaponry to marble busts, coins, jewellery and a fabulous collection of pottery. 

 

While on weekend breaks in Athens, you will see plenty of fascinating marble statues lining winding paths and the one of Emperor Hadrian by the Great Altar of Zeus is a fine example of classical sculpture. A large statue of Apollon Patroos is even more imposing and dates back as far as the 4th century BC. Throughout the grounds of the Agora there are the attractive green spaces of the herb and flower gardens among shady olive trees making this an ideal retreat from the scorching midday sun. It all seems to blend in perfectly with the ancient surroundings and the animated activity of still on-going archaeological digs.