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Sundial, Athens Travel Guide

4.5 (37)

Discover ancient timekeeping in the heart of Athens' National Garden, a serene oasis of history and natural beauty.

Located within Athens' National Garden, the sundial offers a glimpse into ancient timekeeping amidst a lush, green oasis. A blend of scientific ingenuity and aesthetic charm, it reflects the historical appreciation for astronomy and functional art.

A brief summary to Sundial

  • Εθνικός Κήπος, Leof. Vasilisis Amalias, Athens, 105 57, GR
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sundial.

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
  • Combine your visit to the sundial with a stroll through the National Garden to discover its other hidden gems.
  • Check out the Roman mosaic floor near the Vasilissis Sophias Avenue entrance.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Syntagma Square, walk east along Leof. Vasilissis Amalias. The National Garden will be on your right. Enter through the main gate. The sundial is located near the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take Metro lines 2 or 3 to Syntagma station. Exit the station and walk east along Leof. Vasilissis Amalias. The National Garden will be on your right. Enter through the main gate. The sundial is located near the entrance. A single metro ticket costs €1.20.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi to the National Garden on Leof. Vasilissis Amalias. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main entrance. From Syntagma Square, a taxi ride will cost approximately €4-6 , plus a base fare of €1.80. Ensure the meter is running.

Discover more about Sundial

Nestled in the heart of Athens within the National Garden, the sundial stands as a testament to ancient timekeeping methods and the enduring human fascination with the cosmos. This antique astronomical instrument, crafted from stone and adorned with a rusty steel gnomon dial on a marble base, provides a captivating glimpse into the past. Located near the garden's main entrance, the sundial uses the sun's position to cast a shadow on a calibrated surface, indicating the time of day with surprising accuracy. Surrounded by the garden's tranquil landscape, it serves as both a practical tool and a decorative element, seamlessly blending into its surroundings.The National Garden itself, a verdant oasis in the bustling city, provides a fitting setting for this historical artifact. Commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838, the garden boasts over 500 plant species from around the world, interwoven with ancient ruins and shaded pathways. The sundial, along with other antiquities like the Roman mosaic floor, enhances the garden's cultural and historical richness, offering visitors a layered sense of Athens' past.As visitors explore the National Garden, they can discover not only the sundial but also a wealth of other attractions, including a small zoo, a botanical museum, and a children's library. The garden's labyrinthine paths, wooden benches, and small lakes invite relaxation and contemplation, making it a beloved retreat for locals and tourists alike. The sundial stands as a reminder of the ingenuity and artistry of ancient civilizations, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the passage of time.
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