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Seven Seats Plateau: Ancient Gathering Place

Discover the intriguing Seven Seats Plateau on Philopappou Hill, a unique historical site with panoramic views and ancient mysteries in Athens.

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The Seven Seats Plateau (Eptathrono) on Philopappou Hill in Athens is an intriguing historical site featuring rock-cut seats. It is believed to have been a public space for gatherings, possibly related to judicial proceedings or religious rituals in ancient times.

A brief summary to Seven Seats Plateau (Eptathrono)

  • Θέατρο Δώρας Βέρας, Athens, 117 41, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk up Philopappou Hill, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring water, especially during the warmer months, as there are limited facilities on the hill.
  • Visit during sunset for stunning views of Athens and the Acropolis.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions on Philopappou Hill, such as the Philopappos Monument and the Dora Stratou Theatre.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Acropolis metro station, walk southwest towards Philopappou Hill. Follow the signs for the Dora Stratou Theatre. The Seven Seats Plateau is a short walk from the theatre, further up the hill. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and involves some uphill climbing.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro to the Acropolis station (Red Line). Alternatively, take bus line 230 to the 'Acropolis' stop. From either stop, follow the walking directions to Philopappou Hill and the Seven Seats Plateau. A single metro or bus fare within Athens typically costs €1.20.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Syntagma Square to the entrance of Philopappou Hill near the Dora Stratou Theatre costs approximately €8-€10. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Seven Seats Plateau. Note that traffic can be heavy in central Athens, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Seven Seats Plateau (Eptathrono)

The Seven Seats Plateau, also known as Eptathrono, is a unique and historically significant site located on Philopappou Hill in Athens. This monument consists of a rectangular terrace carved into the bedrock, featuring seven rock-cut seats along its south side. An exedra with a bench is present on the east side. Scholars suggest that the plateau served a public purpose, potentially as a court, bouleuterion (council chamber), or a space for religious rituals. Some believe it was linked to the worship of the Mother of the Gods (Cybele-Rhea), as evidenced by an inscription found near Kimon's Tombs. The site is also associated with legends, including the story of the seer Mytragyrtes. According to the legend, Mytragyrtes was punished for initiating women into the goddess's mystic worship, and after his death, a plague struck Athens. To atone for this, Athenians built a bouleuterion and covered the ditch where he was thrown. Today, the Seven Seats Plateau offers visitors a chance to connect with ancient Athenian history and contemplate the site's possible uses and significance. It's a peaceful location to enjoy panoramic views of Athens while reflecting on the city's rich past.

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