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Paved Court of Klepsydra: Ancient Spring of Athens

Discover the ancient Klepsydra spring on the Acropolis, a vital water source in ancient Athens with a rich history and archaeological significance.

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The Paved Court of Klepsydra is the site of a natural spring on the northwest slope of the Acropolis in Athens. Used since prehistoric times, it was developed in the 5th century BCE and features a paved court, well, and fountain house. The spring played a vital role in ancient Athenian life and is referenced in ancient literature.

A brief summary to Paved Court of Klepsydra

  • Theorias 21, Athens, 105 58, GR

Local tips

  • Combine your visit to the Paved Court of Klepsydra with other nearby attractions like the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the Acropolis and the spring can be uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during peak tourist season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Acropolis Museum, walk northwest along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. Turn left onto Theorias Street; the Paved Court of Klepsydra will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro Line 1 (Green Line) to Monastiraki Station. Transfer to Line 3 (Blue Line) and get off at Akropoli Station. Walk southwest towards the Acropolis, then turn left onto Theorias Street. The Paved Court of Klepsydra will be on your right, about a 15-minute walk from the metro station. A single metro ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from Syntagma Square to Theorias 21, Athens. The fare will vary depending on traffic, but expect to pay around €8-€20. Note that there is a base fare of €1.80, plus €0.90/km during the day.

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Discover more about Paved Court of Klepsydra

The Paved Court of Klepsydra marks the location of a natural spring on the north-west slope of the Acropolis hill in Athens, near the intersection of the Peripatos and the Panathenaic Way. This spring has been a source of water since prehistoric times, with significant development occurring around the 5th century BCE. The site includes a paved court, a well, a covered well-house, and a later Roman apsidal well house that was eventually converted into a Byzantine chapel. The spring was a crucial water source for the ancient Athenians. The name 'Klepsydra' means 'water thief,' possibly because the spring seemed to disappear quickly. Ancient texts mention the spring, with Hesychius noting it was once called 'Empedo,' likely the name of both the spring and its tutelary deity, an Attic nymph. The spring is also mentioned by Aristophanes, Pausanias, and Plutarch. Over the centuries, the Klepsydra has undergone various transformations. During Frankish control, it was heavily fortified. However, it fell into disuse during the Ottoman period, leading to the surrender of the Turkish garrison in 1822 due to lack of water. The spring was rediscovered in 1835 by Kyriakos Pittakis. Archaeological excavations, starting in 1874 and continuing into the 20th century, uncovered the paved court, fountain house, and draw basin. The excavations revealed that the original Greek fountain house was built around 475–470 BCE. Today, the remains of the spring can be seen near the Acropolis, representing a significant landmark of Athens' cultural heritage.

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