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The Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds
The Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds
the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds in Athens, Greece

intro

The Roman Agora (Market of Caesar and Augustus) and the Tower of the Winds are located on the north side of the Acropolis, and a short distance to the east of the Greek Agora, with which a paved street connected it. An inscription (IG II2 3174) on the architrave of the monumental Gate of Athena Archegetis ("Athena the Leader") tells us that Julius Caesar and Augustus provided the funds for its construction in the 1st century B.C. The Roman Agora is a large, open-air courtyard surrounded by colonnades on all four sides. On the eastern side, there were also a series of shops. On the southern side was a fountain. The main entrance was on the west (Gate of Athena Archegetis). A second entrance (or propylon) on the east led up to a public latrine and the "Tower of the Winds." The Roman Agora became the city's primary market, taking over many of the commercial functions of Greek Agora, which had become something of a museum (or archaeological park) by that time.

Additional Information

Dive into the history of Athens as you explore this open-air archaeological site. Built during the Roman era, the Agora served as a bustling marketplace, while the Tower of the Winds functioned as an ancient timekeeping marvel.

 

Reasons to Visit:

  • Witness the blend of Roman and Greek architectural styles.
  • Explore the ingenious Tower of the Winds, which features a water clock and sundial.
  • Enjoy a quieter, less commercialized experience compared to other major landmarks.

 

Things to Avoid:

  • Visiting during midday in the summer heat.
  • Wearing inappropriate footwear; the terrain can be uneven.
  • Expecting interactive exhibits; this is a historic site with limited modern facilities.

 

Accessibility Level: Medium

While most of the site is flat, uneven pathways and some stairs may pose challenges for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility issues.

 

Recommended Age Group

  • Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended due to uneven pathways and limited baby-friendly facilities.
  • Kids (3-12 years): Suitable for introducing them to ancient history in a manageable and open setting.
  • Teens (13-19 years): Teens will enjoy the blend of history, architecture, and interactive cultural stories.
  • Adults (20-64 years): Perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking cultural exploration.
  • Seniors (65+ years): Enjoyable for history lovers, but mobility aids may be required due to uneven terrain.

Address:

Polignotou 3, Monastiraki, Athens 105 55, Greece

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Basic Info

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COUNTRY & Region

Greece,
Europe
Medium
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LOCAL CURRENCY​

Euro (EUR)
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SAFTY LEVEL​

High
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Price Level

Medium
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Recommended Duration

• 1-2 hours

Electricity

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Electricity

220-240V,
50Hz
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Plug Type

• Type C (Round pin)
• Type F (Two round pins with earth clips)
Plug types
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Activities To Do In The Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds is from March to May and September to November, avoiding the summer heat and peak crowds.

  • Spring (March to May): Mild weather and fewer crowds make this a great time to explore. The flowers blooming nearby enhance the experience.
  • Summer (June to August): The area can get very hot and crowded; visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid discomfort.
  • Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists allow for a pleasant visit. The golden hues of autumn add charm to the site.
  • Winter (December to February): Quieter and less crowded, though occasional rain might require flexibility in planning.

Remember to check the weather forecast a few days before the trip and before heading to the airport.

Safety Information

The Roman Agora is generally safe for visitors. Stay alert for uneven surfaces to avoid trips and falls, and secure your belongings to deter pickpockets in the surrounding areas.
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SAFETY Level

High

Spoken Languages

The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Learn The Language

  • Hello: Γειά σας (Yia sas)
  • Thank you: Ευχαριστώ (Efharisto)
  • Please: Παρακαλώ (Parakalo)
  • Where is…?: Πού είναι…? (Pou einai…?)
  • How much?: Πόσο κοστίζει; (Poso kostizei?)
  • Goodbye: Αντίο (Antio)

Prices, Tickets & Best Value Tips

  • Purchase a combined ticket for access to multiple archaeological sites in Athens, including the Acropolis.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
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Check out our traveling coupons and make your trip more affordable

What To Pack

  • Comfortable walking shoes for uneven pathways.
  • A reusable water bottle, as hydration is key, especially in warmer months.
  • Lightweight clothing and a hat during summer.
  • A small guidebook or downloaded app to learn about the site's history.
We couldn't find specific tips for The Roman Agora and the Tower of the Winds

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FAQs

The Roman Agora was an ancient marketplace built during the Roman era, serving as a hub for trade and social interaction.
The Tower of the Winds is an ancient weather station featuring a water clock, sundial, and wind vane, showcasing advanced engineering of its time.
Yes, there is an entrance fee, but it is included in the combined ticket for Athens’ archaeological sites.
Yes, the open space and fascinating structures are engaging for children, but supervision is needed due to uneven ground.
It is a short 10-minute walk from the Acropolis, making it easy to include in your itinerary.

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