Ancient Agora of Athens Set for Major Visitor Infrastructure Overhaul

An impression of the Ancient Agora’s improved entrance point from Adrianou Street. Photo source: Culture Ministry

The Greek Culture Ministry is focusing on enhancing the Ancient Agora, aiming to upgrade its tourist infrastructure, public facilities, and overall accessibility throughout this significant archaeological site in the heart of Athens.

Following the completion of similar studies for the nearby archaeological site of Kerameikos, the ministry now plans to highlight the Ancient Agora with a new entrance on Adrianou Street and improved accessibility for all visitors, including those with mobility limitations. The project will be executed by the Ephorate of Antiquities of the City of Athens, an agency of the Culture Ministry.

The area slated for upgrades extends north to the Athens Piraeus Electric Trains (ISAP) rails, runs parallel to Adrianou Street, reaches west to Apostolou Pavlou Street, and connects east to the urban development of Plaka, south of the Acropolis slopes.

A map of the entrances to the Ancient Agora that are to be improved. The entrance on Adrianou Street is circled in red. Photo source: Culture Ministry

The planned projects include:

– Entrance enhancements: Upgrading the appearance and functionality of the entrances to the archaeological site, with a priority on the main entrance on Adrianou Street.
This will focus on making the entrance fully accessible to people with mobility and other limitations. The entrances will be connected to sightseeing points, rest areas, and information services. Additionally, hygiene infrastructure, including water pipes and drainage systems, will be upgraded with accessibility in mind. The entrances will feature seating benches, water dispensers, canopies, and other amenities to enhance the overall visitor experience.

An impression of a ticket booth for the Ancient Agora on Adrianou Street. Photo source: Culture Ministry

– Ticket office replacement: The existing ticket office at the main entrance on Adrianou Street will be replaced to meet modern infrastructure needs. The new ticket offices will streamline visitor entry, direct tour groups to the appropriate entrance and exit points, and provide shaded areas for visitors and employees. Parts of the existing entrance platform will also be replaced.

– Asteroskopiou and Apostolou Pavlou Street entrances: The ticket points at these entrances will be renovated and improved. At the Asteroskopiou Street entrance, a new metal canopy will be installed for visitor protection, while automatic bottled water dispensers and e-ticket machines will be placed in shaded, sun-protected areas.

An impression of the Ancient Agora’s improved entrance point from Adrianou Street. Photo source: Culture Ministry

– New access via Panathineon Street: A new set of stairs parallel to Panathineon Street will be constructed, connecting the ancient Panathenaea Road with the southern part of the archaeological site, towards the Acropolis.

– Apostolou Pavlou Street entrance: The existing ticket office at this entrance will be upgraded, and a canopy will be installed to protect visitors waiting in line. Automatic water bottle dispensers and e-ticket machines will be placed in shaded, sun-protected areas. Public facilities will be completely renovated, with new amenities added for people with mobility limitations. The old water and drainage systems will be replaced, and new information signs, seating benches, rope poles, and railings will be installed.