New Sales Kiosk at Acropolis Archaeological Site Nears Completion

An impression of the new shop under the Acropolis. Photo source: Culture Ministry

The construction of a new sales kiosk at the Acropolis archaeological site is nearing completion, according to an announcement from the Greek Culture Ministry.

The project is being carried out by the Organization for the Management and Development of Cultural Resources (ODAP) with funding from the European Recovery and Resilience Facility. This initiative is part of a larger program to construct and equip 14 new retail outlets at archaeological sites across Greece, with a total budget of 6.3 million euros.

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni highlighted that the new kiosk is part of a broader effort to upgrade services for visitors to the Acropolis.

“ODAP is entering a new phase, marked by numerous projects aimed at enhancing retail offerings at archaeological sites and museums, supplying new cultural products, and producing high-quality replicas of ancient artifacts using both traditional methods and modern technologies,” she said.

An impression of the shop’s view to Arios Pagos Hill. Photo source: Culture Ministry

The kiosk is strategically located on the plateau south of the Areopagus Hill (Arios Pagos), a site of historical significance. The plateau will also serve as a reception area for visitors, offering views of the Areopagus rock.

“The new Acropolis kiosk is part of the wider strategy to manage visitor flows and enhance the presentation of the archaeological site as a whole,” Mendoni said. “The interventions on the plateau have been designed to seamlessly integrate with the aesthetics of the archaeological site and the historical landscaping created by the renowned architect Pikionis.”

Photo source: Culture Ministry

In addition to the kiosk, the new landscaping will feature a unified path that is fully accessible for individuals with mobility limitations, as well as two designated parking spaces for people with disabilities. Two benches will be installed along the path, and new signage will provide visitors with information about the area’s rich history and archaeological relics. Bushes will be planted along Theoria Road to enhance the natural environment. Emergency vehicles will also retain access to the archaeological site on the western slope of the Acropolis Hill.

The area has a rich history, having been planted with olive and pine trees during the first half of the 20th century. In 1938, a bronze plaque was installed at the site, quoting the Apostle Paul’s speech before the Areopagus in 51 AD. Every year on June 29, a mass is held at the site to celebrate the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul.