Background

Tumulus of the Athenians: A Monument to Heroism

A solemn burial mound honoring the Athenian heroes who fell at the Battle of Marathon, a symbol of Greek courage and resilience.

4.4

The Tumulus of the Athenians is a burial mound honoring the 192 Athenian soldiers who fell during the pivotal Battle of Marathon in 490 BC. This historical landmark serves as a reminder of Greek resilience and a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives defending their city.

A brief summary to Tumulus of the Athenians at Marathon

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Archaeological Museum of Marathon to see artifacts from the battle and learn more about the area's history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking around the tumulus and the surrounding park.
  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months.
  • Take the time to reflect on the historical significance of the site and the sacrifices made by the Athenian soldiers.
  • Consider visiting in November to witness the Athens Marathon, which starts at the Tumulus and commemorates the legendary run of Pheidippides.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Athens, take the KTEL Attikis bus from the Nomismatokopion terminal to Marathonas. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and buses depart hourly. From the Marathonas bus stop, the Tumulus is a short taxi ride away. Bus fare is approximately €4-€7 each way. A taxi from the Marathonas bus stop to the Tumulus will cost approximately €10-€15.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Athens and can take you directly to the Tumulus of the Athenians. The journey is approximately 40 km and takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €40-€50 for a one-way trip from Athens.

  • Driving

    If driving from Athens, take the Marathonos Avenue (Route 83). The journey is approximately 40 km and takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the site. Be aware of potential tolls on the route, though they are unlikely to be directly on the final approach. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Tumulus of the Athenians at Marathon

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Tumulus of the Athenians at Marathon

The Tumulus of the Athenians, also known as the Soros, stands as a solemn tribute to the 192 Athenian warriors who perished in the Battle of Marathon in 490 BC. This battle, a defining moment in ancient Greek history, saw a significantly outnumbered Athenian army defeat the invading Persian forces, securing a victory that resonated throughout the Greek world. The tumulus itself is a vaulted tomb, a burial mound approximately 12 meters (40 feet) high, created on the battlefield to honor the fallen. It is unusual because Athenians typically buried their war dead in the Kerameikos cemetery. However, the heroes of Marathon were interred on the battlefield itself, marking their exceptional bravery and sacrifice. Excavations of the tumulus have revealed a layer of ash containing charred bones, indicating that the soldiers were cremated before being buried. Today, the Tumulus of the Athenians is the centerpiece of a serene park, offering visitors a space for reflection and remembrance. A marble stele stands as a memorial, and visitors can also see a replica of the victory column erected by the Athenians to commemorate their triumph. The site serves as the starting point for the annual Athens Marathon, a race that retraces the legendary route of Pheidippides, who ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the Persian defeat. Visiting the Tumulus provides a tangible connection to ancient Greek history and a deeper understanding of the values of courage, sacrifice, and freedom that defined Athenian society.

Popular Experiences near Tumulus of the Athenians at Marathon

Popular Hotels near Tumulus of the Athenians at Marathon

Select Currency