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Horologion of Andronikos Cyrrhestes: The Tower of the Winds

Explore the Tower of the Winds, an ancient marvel in Athens: a testament to Greek innovation in timekeeping and meteorology.

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The Horologion of Andronikos Cyrrhestes, also known as the Tower of the Winds, is an ancient Greek clock tower and meteorological station in the Roman Agora of Athens. Built in the 1st century BC, it showcases the advanced scientific knowledge of the time.

A brief summary to Horologion of Andronikos Cyrrhestes

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the surrounding area has cobblestone streets and some uphill climbs.
  • Take your time to explore the tower and admire the intricate details of its design.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Horologion is located in the Roman Agora, near the Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods. From Monastiraki Metro Station, walk approximately 10 minutes through the bustling streets. Head east towards Adrianou Street, then turn left. Continue north, and the Roman Agora will be on your right. The Tower of the Winds is within the Agora.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Athens Metro to Monastiraki Station, which is served by lines 1 and 3. From the station, it is a short, approximately 10-minute walk to the Roman Agora. Follow the walking directions as above. A single 90-minute ticket for the Athens public transport system costs €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. Direct the driver to the Roman Agora, located near Plaka. A short taxi ride from Syntagma Square to the Roman Agora typically costs around €8-€11 during the day. Be sure the driver starts the meter at the base fare of €1.80.

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Discover more about Horologion of Andronikos Cyrrhestes

The Horologion of Andronikos Cyrrhestes, or Tower of the Winds, stands as a testament to ancient Greek ingenuity in the heart of Athens. Constructed in the first half of the 1st century B.C. by Andronikos Kyrrhestes, an astronomer from Macedonia, this octagonal Pentelic marble structure served as a combination clock tower and weather station. Standing twelve meters high, each side of the tower is adorned with embossed figures representing the eight winds: Boreas (N), Kaikias (NE), Eurus (E), Apeliotes (SE), Notus (S), Livas (SW), Zephyrus (W), and Skiron (NW). Each wind is depicted with its own unique symbol and name. The tower also featured sundials on each face, and a complex water clock mechanism inside. A bronze Triton acted as a weather vane, indicating wind direction. Over the centuries, the Tower of the Winds has served various purposes. In early Christian times, it was converted into a church or baptistery. During Ottoman rule, it functioned as a tekke (a place of gathering) for whirling dervishes. The structure was fully excavated in the 19th century. Today, after undergoing conservation and restoration, the Horologion stands as a captivating monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the scientific and architectural achievements of ancient Greece.

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