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Socrates, the Man and the Philosopher was imprisoned and eventually executed in 399 BC by poison hemlock. As part of a lovely park on Philopappos Hill, you can find several fascinating points of interest. One of them is the Prison Of Socrates. This cave-like structure cut into the rock of the Hill of Muses, west of the Acropolis, has been the jail used to hold the ancient philosopher Socrates before he was executed. This structure was also used to hide antiquities from the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum during World War II. On the slopes of Filopappou Hill, follow the path to this warren of rooms carved into bedrock. It's said to have been the place Socrates was imprisoned in before his trial in 399 BC. More recently, artefacts from the Acropolis and National Archaeological Museum were hidden here to protect them from Nazi looting during WWII.
Additional Information
Socrates' Prison is an essential stop for history enthusiasts exploring the life and legacy of the philosopher.
Reasons to Visit:
- Explore the possible site where Socrates was imprisoned, a place entwined with philosophical history.
- Enjoy the scenic views of Athens from Filopappou Hill, offering a blend of nature and history.
- Nearby sites on the hill include the Hill of the Muses, making it a multi-faceted historical journey.
Things to Avoid:
- Avoid visiting in the midday summer heat as temperatures can be high on the hill.
- The path up Filopappou Hill is uneven; wear sturdy shoes and avoid flip-flops.
- It’s recommended to bring your own water, as there are limited facilities.
Accessibility Level: Low
The area has uneven surfaces and limited accessibility for those with mobility challenges, as the site is carved into rock on an archaeological hillside.
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Basic Info
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Recommended Duration
• 1-2 hours
Electricity
Electricity
Plug Type
• Type F (Two round pins with earth clips)
Activities To Do In Prison of Socrates
Best Time To Visit
The best times to visit Socrates' Prison are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- April to June: The mild temperatures are ideal for exploring Athens’ historical sites without the intense summer heat.
- September to October: Fall offers comfortable weather and fewer tourists, perfect for a more serene experience.
- July to August: Peak summer can be very hot and crowded; plan for early morning visits if traveling during this period.
- Winter (November to March): Though cooler and occasionally rainy, winter brings a quiet atmosphere and minimal tourist presence.
Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.
Safety Information
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Spoken Languages
Learn The Language
- Hello – Γειά σου (Yia sou)
- Thank you – Ευχαριστώ (Efcharistó)
- Please – Παρακαλώ (Parakaló)
- Where is…? – Πού είναι…? (Pou eínai…?)
- Goodbye – Αντίο (Antío)
- How much? – Πόσο κάνει; (Póso kánei?)
Prices, Tickets & Best Value Tips
- Free to visit (open public area)
- Visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Combine the visit with the Acropolis Museum, which offers more background on ancient Athens and Socrates’ time.
- Consider a guided tour of Filopappou Hill to learn more about the archaeological sites and their historical context.
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What To Pack
Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the rocky path to Socrates' Prison, and bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months. A guidebook or a historical app can provide context about the site and nearby landmarks.
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