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Paved Court of Klepsydra: Ancient Athenian Spring

Explore the ancient Paved Court of Klepsydra, a historical spring on the Acropolis, and discover a vital piece of Athens' past.

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The Paved Court of Klepsydra is the site of a natural spring on the northwest slope of the Acropolis in Athens. Used since prehistoric times, in the 5th century BCE it was developed with a paved court, well, and fountain house. The spring played a vital role in ancient Athenian life as a source of fresh water.

A brief summary to Paved Court of Klepsydra

  • Theorias 21, Athens, 105 58, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on ancient paved stones.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Paved Court of Klepsydra is located at Theorias 21. From Amalias Avenue, walk towards Stadiou Street, continuing until you reach the intersection with Theorias Street. Turn right onto Theorias and walk to number 21. The Paved Court of Klepsydra will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Paved Court of Klepsydra via public transport, take Metro Line 1 (Green Line) to Monastiraki Station. Transfer to Line 3 (Blue Line) and get off at Akropoli Station. Walk southwest towards the Acropolis, then along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street. Turn left onto Theorias Street. The Paved Court of Klepsydra is approximately a 15-minute walk from the metro station. A single ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes. A day ticket costs €4.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    For a direct route, take a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. Input 'Theorias 21, Athens 105 58' as your destination. The fare from central Athens typically ranges from €10-€20.

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Discover more about Paved Court of Klepsydra

The Paved Court of Klepsydra marks the location of a natural spring on the north-west slope of the Acropolis hill, near the intersection of the Peripatos and the Panathenaic Way. The spring has been in use as a water source since prehistoric times. Around the 5th century BCE, the site was developed, and new structures were built. These included the paved court, a well, and a covered well-house. Literary sources refer to the spring as Klepsydra, but it was formerly called Empedo, likely also the name of the spring's tutelary deity, an Attic nymph. The spring is mentioned in the writings of Aristophanes, Pausanias, and Plutarch. During Frankish control, the Klepsydra was fortified. However, during Ottoman occupation, the well fell into disuse. The Turkish garrison of the Acropolis surrendered in the siege of 1822 due to a lack of water. Kyriakos Pittakis rediscovered the spring's source and left the first written account of the site in 1835. Archaeological examination began in 1874, and in 1897, the paved court was uncovered. Excavations from 1936 to 1940 fully exposed the paved court, fountain house, and draw basin. Today, visitors can explore the remains of this historical site, imagining its importance to the daily lives of ancient Athenians.

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