The cradle of Philosophy and Democracy

Embark on an unforgettable journey through time and explore the majestic Acropolis and the fascinating Ancient Agora, the birthplace of democracy, political discourse, and ancient Athenians' daily lives. These two iconic sites are the most significant in Athens and offer an incredible insight into the ancient Greek world. Get ready for a captivating adventure that will take you to the very heart of history.

First we visit the sacred hill of the Acropolis. Discover the awe-inspiring majesty of the Acropolis, the legendary "upper town" that towers over Athens, offering breathtaking views from its three-hectare expanse. Dedicated to Athena, the city's patron goddess, the Acropolis was a symbol of arts and democracy during the golden age of Greece. See the magnificent Parthenon and other iconic monuments, with current restoration efforts revealing new insights into their construction.

Highlights Smart tips

Next, we'll explore the ancient Agora, the bustling hub of commercial, political, and judicial activity in Athens. This was the main square of the city during antiquity, and the meeting place of legendary philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Diogenes. Discover the heart of Athens and the birthplace of democracy at the fascinating Agora.

Administrative and commercial center

The Agora of Athens was the administrative and political center as well as the great market square: it served for trade and meetings. Until the 5th century, it was the meeting place of the Ecclesia of Demos, the assembly of citizens. All decisions are voted by the Ekklesia; civil servants and ministers are elected, the ambitious are banished, and public accounts are rendered at the end of each mandate – what a dream!

In the Agora museum you can admire metal votes and other official objects from the first democracy in the world.

Heart of philosophy

So it is logical that the most famous philosophers of Greek antiquity choose this place to meet their students. The stoas and the other buildings of the Agora housed philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Diogenes or the famous Stoics and Epicureans. Even Saint Paul discussed with the Athenians in the Agora.

Theseion Temple

The best-preserved ancient Greek temple, is located in the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora.

The temple of the god of metallurgy, Hephaestus, inaugurated 25 centuries ago, occupies a height to the west of the Agora. Long named Théséion by the philhellenes deceived by its friezes representing the exploits of Theseus, it had actually been dedicated to Hephaestus, god of blacksmiths, ceramists and potters, and to Athena, protector of gunsmiths and industrial arts.

In all eras, until the invasion of the Heruli in 267 A.D. when it was completely ruined, the Agora constituted the most adorable meeting point for the social and spiritual relations of the Athenians. The heart of Athens.

A must return to the past.

Highlights

• Discover Greece's most renowned monument: the Acropolis and its world famous Parthenon.
• Discover the Ancient Agora; the place where the most famous philosophers of Greek antiquity (Socrates, Plato, Aristotle) met as well as the best preserved ancient Greek temple. Discover also the Agora Museum
•. Come experience the daily life of an Athenian during the height of democracy.
• Enjoy spectacular views of the city. Plenty of time for the best pictures.
• Keep the experience of the visit alive with a souvenir offered by your guide.

Smart tips - Handy advice from your guide

• Take advantage of an early morning or late afternoon tour to avoid the summer heat and large crowds.
• Comfortable hat and footwear.
• Avoid queues with the combination ticket.
• From the Acropolis, a pedestrian path leads to the Ancient Agora.

Tailor-made visits

Tours can be customized to your needs and interests.
Do not hesitate to contact me for more information and I will answer you as soon as possible.

+33 651812042 +30 6942913011

Follow the guide!

I love meeting travelers from all over the world and introducing them to the beauties of my beloved country. I love to illustrate the link between Greek heritage and the way of life nowadays. It's always a pleasure to share my passion for history, ancient and modern.

Contact

Do not hesitate to contact me for more information and I will answer you as soon as possible.

Guide for Athens
Thanasis Paparoupas
Licensed guide approved by
the Greek State & the French State

+30 6942913011

+33 651812042

tpaparoupas@gmail.com

The cradle of Philosophy and Democracy