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Kerameikos Archaeological Site: Athens' Ancient Cemetery

Discover Kerameikos: Ancient Athens' main cemetery, potters' quarter, and a journey through thousands of years of history and art.

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Explore the Kerameikos, ancient Athens' main cemetery, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the city's history from the Bronze Age through Roman times. Wander among the ruins, discover ancient walls and gates, and visit the museum showcasing funerary artifacts.

A brief summary to Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a fair amount of walking on uneven ground.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon during summer to avoid the heat, as shade is limited.
  • Consider purchasing a combo ticket for access to multiple archaeological sites, including the Acropolis, to save money.
  • Check the official website for current opening hours and any special events or closures.
  • Take time to explore the Kerameikos Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of funerary artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Thissio Metro Station (Green Line), walk west along Ermou Street for about 5 minutes. The entrance to the Kerameikos Archaeological Site will be on your left. This is a straightforward, mostly level walk.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro to Kerameikos station (Blue Line M3). From the station, walk approximately 10 minutes towards Ermou Street. Follow the signs to the archaeological site. A single metro ticket costs approximately €1.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to 'Kerameikos Archaeological Site, Ermou 148, Athina'. From central Athens, a taxi fare typically ranges from €5 to €15, depending on traffic. Ensure the driver uses the meter.

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Discover more about Kerameikos Archaeological Site

The Kerameikos Archaeological Site, located northwest of the Acropolis, is a significant historical area that served as the primary cemetery of ancient Athens for over 1,500 years. The name Kerameikos comes from the Greek word for pottery, as it was initially a potters' quarter due to the clay deposits from the Eridanos River. The area's history is rich and layered. In 479 B.C., Themistocles built a wall to protect the Agora, dividing Kerameikos into inner and outer sections. The outer Kerameikos then became the city's largest and most important cemetery. Important citizens and war heroes were buried here. Archaeological excavations, which began in 1870, have revealed temples, statues, public buildings, and thousands of tombs. Today, visitors can explore the serene archaeological site, discover ancient walls, and view impressive tombs. Key features include the Dipylon gate, the main entrance to the city, and the Sacred Gate, used by pilgrims. The Kerameikos Archaeological Museum displays a collection of statues, urns, and funerary monuments found in the cemetery. Note that the Archaeological Site and the Museum of Kerameikos will be closed to the public from Monday 5 May 2025 and for eight months -until the end of this year- for the execution of works to upgrade the infrastructure of the Archaeological Site.

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