Seven Seats Plateau: Ancient Gathering Place

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.