PNYX

From the excavations of 1910 the identity of the meeting place of the principal assembly of the democracy of Ancient Athens (Ecclesia) from 6th Century B.C. was confirmed to be Pnyx. Further excavations on a larger scale between 1930 and 1937 were undertaken in order to make clear the topographical and architectural foundation of the area of Pnyx.

With the passage of time, the original foundation of Pnyx changed, with the reversal of the spectator seats and the speaker’s area. In fact, these changes took place during three building periods. During the first period, the natural side of the hill was used as hollow of the theater – while on the north side, a straight analemma wall was constructed. Its orientation was reversed during the second building period where a semi-circle analemma wall was made and podium was added on the south side. In the third period was when the size and scale of Pnyka was essentially enhanced and the analemma wall was constructed out of large, cube shaped stones and a new podium was built.

The most important monuments of Pnyka are the two large stoas that frame the south side of the spacious flat level above the podium, the largest structure between the two and the large rectangular structure above the podium, for the Altar of Zeus Agoraios – all from the third building period. In excavations during 1803 small plaques were discovered that told of the existence of the Sanctuary of Zeus Hypsistos, from which the floors, stairs and some niches are saved to this day.

The final formation of Pnyx came after the reign of Lycurgus but many of the programmed plans that existed went unfinished due economic problems.

HOW TO GET THERE

BY FOOT: From Agion Asomaton Square and the Thissio Metro Station, follow the Apostolou Pavlou Walkway for over 1 km to find on your right hand side the Pnyx.

Gastronomy

KRINOS
Old patisserie with traditional doughnuts and cream pies for customers of every age.... more
ARISTON
Has a variety of pies, such as the all-time classic, cheese pie. ... more
MANIMANI
With roots from the region of Mani in the ingredients and its recipes, it does not hold it “maniatiko” (holds... more

Shopping

ACROPOLIS MUSEUM SHOP
The ground level shop has a broad selection of postcards, paper goods and the museum’s children’s collection. The second floor... more
ROYAL ORIENTAL CARPET
Make a treasure hunt out of it and discover this basement store in the most ancient area of the city... more
BENAKI MUSEUM SHOP III
A beautiful space filled with unique souvenirs from the Benaki Museum – such as ceramics, silver vessels, reliefs and sculptures,... more

Nightlife

USE BAR
Small bar playing mainly black music. Absolute hip hangout, open from nine in the morning for coffee and cold sandwiches,... more
POP
Small bar with the best indie sounds in the city, clean drinks and fanatic regulars.... more
JAMES JOYCE
James Joyce is considered, “a different type of Irish pub.” There, they blend the best of the old with the... more