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Kerameikos Archaeological Site: Ancient Athens's Necropolis

Discover Kerameikos, Athens's ancient cemetery and potters' quarter, a journey through the city's history and burial traditions.

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Explore Kerameikos, the ancient cemetery and potters' quarter of Athens, dating back to the Bronze Age. Wander through the remains of tombs, monuments, and the city's ancient walls, and visit the museum to see original sculptures and artifacts.

A brief summary to Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground while exploring the archaeological site.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon, especially during summer, to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Take advantage of the free admission days, such as the first Sunday of the month from November to March.
  • Explore the Kerameikos Museum to see original sculptures and artifacts found at the site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Thiseio Metro Station (Green Line), walk west along Ermou Street for about 5 minutes. The Kerameikos Archaeological Site will be on your right. This is a straightforward, mostly unshaded walk.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro Blue Line (M3) to Kerameikos station. From the station, walk approximately 10 minutes to the archaeological site. Alternatively, take the Green Line (M1) to Thiseio station and walk 5 minutes along Ermou Street. A single metro ticket costs around €1.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Beat to Kerameikos Archaeological Site, Ermou 148, Athina. Taxi fares from central Athens typically range from €5 to €15, depending on traffic. Ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Kerameikos, located on the northwest edge of the ancient city of Athens, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and deaths of its ancient citizens. The site, named after Keramos, the mythical son of Dionysus and Ariadne and hero of potters, was the main production center for the famous Attic vases. Potters were drawn to the area due to the clay deposits from the Eridanos River. Over time, the area transitioned into the most important cemetery of ancient Athens, with burials taking place continuously from the 9th century BC until Roman times. The construction of the Themistoclean Wall in 478 BC divided the area into Inner and Outer Kerameikos. The inner part was used for urban development, while the outer part remained a cemetery. Today, visitors can explore the serene archaeological site, wandering among the remains of tombs and funerary monuments. Plaster replicas mark the locations of original burial monuments, many of which are now housed in the Kerameikos Museum. The museum displays a chronological collection of statues, urns, and other artifacts unearthed from the cemetery. Key features include the ancient city walls, the Sacred Gate, and the Dipylon gate, which was the main entrance to the city. Excavations at Kerameikos began in 1870 and continue to this day, revealing more about the lives of ancient Athenians. The site provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city, offering a unique perspective on ancient Athenian history and culture.

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