The Areopagus is a 115 meter high rocky hill in the middle of Athens, which today will inspire you as a vantage point.
In ancient times it was the meeting place of the Supreme Council.
In this complete guide to Areopagus in Athens, you'll learn all about the hill, its history, and helpful information about admission and how to get there.
Let's start!
What Can I Do on Areopagus Hill?
Areopagus, also known in English as Aries Hill, is dedicated to the god of war Aries. When touring the hill, you can transport yourself to ancient times, when Areopagus served as the meeting place of the Supreme Council.
Located north-west of the Acropolis, the 115-meter-high rock, which is the subject of numerous legends, offers a phenomenal view of Athens. From here, after climbing the smooth steps of the Barren Hill, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Agora, Acropolis, Lycabettus Hill and the Athenian coast.
On the north side of the Areopagus are the remains of an ancient church that the city's early Christian converts used.
The viewpoint is a popular destination, especially at sunset.
Tip: Please note that the path leading up to Areopagus can be very slippery, especially when it rains. It is therefore best to ensure that you wear sturdy shoes.
Admission, Tickets and Guided Tours
How Do I Get to Areopagus Hill?
Areopagus is located between the Agora and the Acropolis. It is located near the entrance of the Acropolis, which makes it easy to combine a visit to both sites.
Visitors arriving by public transport can take Metro 1 or 3 to “Monastiraki” and from there it is a 7 minute walk.
Cruise passengers arriving from Piraeus Port can go to the nearby Piraeus Metro Station and board the M1 line. A single ticket is sufficient for the 16-minute journey to Monastiraki station. From here it is another 7 minutes to the hill.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
The Areopagus refers to both the hill of Athens, which is also known as Aries Hill, and the supreme council of ancient Athens, which met on this rocky hill in ancient times. Even today, the highest court in Greece is called the Areopagus.
The Areopagus is located between the Agora and the Acropolis. It is located near the entrance of the Acropolis, which makes it easy to combine a visit to both sites.
Visitors arriving by public transport can take Metro 1 or 3 to “Monastiraki” and from there it is a 7 minute walk.
Visitors arriving from the Piraeus cruise port can go to the nearby Piraeus Metro Station and board the M1 line. A single ticket is sufficient for the 16-minute journey to Monastiraki station. From here it is another 7 minutes to the hill.
Areopag means something like "hill or rock of Aries". The hill was dedicated to Aries, the god of war.
Areopagus can be visited free of charge. There are no entrance fees for the visit.
History of Areopagus Hill
The history of Areopagus goes back to ancient Greece. At that time, the supreme council of ancient Athens, which was also called the Areopag, met here. Even today, the highest court in Greece is still called that. It now congregates in the Palace of Justice instead of on the hill.
A number of legends and sagas are entwined around the place. For example, the apostle Paul is said to have preached to the Athenians on a trip to Athens in AD 51 and converted Dionysus in the process. The origin of the marathon run is also said to be connected to the Areopagus. It is said that after the “Battle of Marathon” an Athenian messenger ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory against the Persians on the top of the Areopagus.
Today the Areopagus is a popular tourist attraction and one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Athens.