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Kerameikos: Athens' Ancient Cemetery

Discover the ancient world at Kerameikos, Athens' historic cemetery and potters' quarter, offering a peaceful journey through Greek history.

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Explore Kerameikos, the primary ancient cemetery of Athens, used from the Bronze Age through Roman times. Wander among the ruins, discover stately tombs, and visit the museum showcasing artifacts from this historically rich and peaceful site, located near the end of Ermou Street.

A brief summary to Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground and exploring the extensive site.
  • Visit in the morning or late afternoon during summer to avoid heat, as shade is limited.
  • Take advantage of free entry days, such as the first Sunday of the month from November to March.
  • Consider purchasing a combo ticket for access to multiple archaeological sites, including the Acropolis.
  • Explore the Kerameikos Museum to see well-preserved artifacts and learn more about the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Thiseio Metro Station (Green Line), walk west on Ermou Street for about 5 minutes. The entrance to the Kerameikos Archaeological Site will be on your left, at the end of the pedestrian zone. No costs are involved for this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro to Kerameikos station (Blue Line). From the station, walk approximately 10 minutes towards Ermou Street. Alternatively, take the Green Line to Thissio station and walk 5 minutes along Ermou Street. A single metro ticket costs approximately €1.40.

  • Taxi

    From central Athens, take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Beat to Kerameikos Archaeological Site, Ermou 148. The fare typically ranges from €5 to €15, depending on traffic and the starting location. Ensure the driver uses the meter to avoid overcharging.

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Discover more about Kerameikos Archaeological Site

Kerameikos, derived from the Greek word 'keramos' meaning pottery clay, was initially the potters' quarter of ancient Athens, drawing artisans due to the Eridanos River's clay deposits. Over time, as the river flooded, the area transitioned into the city's most significant cemetery, serving as the final resting place for over a thousand years. Divided by the Themistoclean Wall in 479 BC into inner and outer sections, the inner Kerameikos was the living area, while the outer became the burial ground. Important citizens, war heroes and those who lived around the Acropolis were buried in Kerameikos. The cemetery was in continuous use from the 9th century BC until Roman times. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient walls, including the Dipylon and Sacred Gates, and wander along the Sacred Way. The adjacent museum, established in 1937, displays a chronological collection of statues, urns, and funerary monuments unearthed from the site. Excavations began in 1870, revealing columns, statues, public buildings, and thousands of tombs. Discoveries include evidence of the Plague of Athens and the earliest inscription in the Greek alphabet on the Dipylon Oinochoe. Today, Kerameikos offers a serene escape from the city's bustle, providing insights into ancient Athenian life and burial customs.

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