Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
KERAMEIKOS
The outer walls of ancient Athens run through Kerameikos, once the edge of
the Classical city. Warriors and priestesses returned to Athens via two sep-
arate roads through here (one to a brothel, the other to a temple). Statesmen
and heroes were buried beneath showy tombs lining the roads. And it was
also the scene of far shadier activities: the haunt of prostitutes, money-
lenders and wine-sellers. Ermou 148, Thissio • 210 346 3552 • Metro:
Kerameikos • 8am-3pm daily • Times are subject to change, call ahead to
confirm • Adm €2, or included with €12 Acropolis ticket
Google Map
1. CITY WALLS
The walls, which surrounded the entire city, were built by Athenian ruler
Themistockles in 478 BC. Made in haste, the walls incorporated materials from all
over the city, including marble from tombs, temples and houses.
2. DIPYLON
The grand entrance to Athens was the largest gate in ancient Greece. The main roads
from Thebes, Corinth and the Peloponnese led to this gate, and many ceremonial
events were held here to mark arrivals and departures.
3. POMPEIION
The Pompeiion was used to prepare for festive and religious processions, especially
the annual Panathenaic procession, in which a new garment was brought to the
statue of Athena in the Parthenon.
View photo
4. SACRED GATE
Through this well-preserved gate passed the Sacred Way, reserved for pilgrims and
priestesses during the procession to Eleusis. A great marble sphinx was built into the
gate.
Sacred Way
 
 
 
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