Kerameikos Archaeological Site: Athens' Ancient Cemetery
Discover Kerameikos, Athens' ancient cemetery and potters' quarter, offering a peaceful journey through history and art.
Kerameikos, located northwest of the Acropolis, is Athens' largest ancient necropolis, with burials spanning from the Early Bronze Age (2700-2000 BC) through Roman times. The name Kerameikos comes from 'keramos,' meaning pottery, as it was initially a potters' quarter due to the clay deposits from the Eridanos River. Themistocles' wall, built in 479 BC, divided the area into inner and outer sections, with the outer part becoming the city's primary cemetery. Important citizens and war heroes were buried here. The site features the remains of the Themistoclean walls, the Dipylon gate, the Sacred Gate, and the Greek Orthodox Church of Agia Triada. Excavations began in 1870, revealing temples, statues, public buildings, and numerous tombs. The Kerameikos Archaeological Museum, established in 1937, displays a chronological collection of statues, urns, and funerary monuments. Visitors can explore the Street of Tombs, view replicas of prominent citizens' gravestones (originals are in the National Museum), and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. Today, Kerameikos offers a tranquil experience, distinct from other crowded Athenian sites. It provides insights into ancient Athenian burial customs and artistic achievements.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven ground.
- Visit during the cooler months or early morning/late afternoon in the summer to avoid heat and crowds.
- Check the official website for free admission days and seasonal hours.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the site and museum adequately.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as shade is limited.
A brief summary to Kerameikos Archaeological Site
- Ermou 148, Athens, 105 53, GR
- +302103463552
Getting There
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Walking
From Monastiraki Square, walk west along Ermou Street for approximately 15-20 minutes. Kerameikos is located at the end of Ermou Street, on the right. The route is mostly flat and pedestrian-friendly.
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Public Transport
Take the Metro Line 1 (Green Line) to Thiseio station. From there, walk along Ermou Street for about 5 minutes to reach Kerameikos. Alternatively, take the Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) to Kerameikos station, which is directly at the site. A single metro ticket within Athens costs €1.20.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Athens. A taxi ride from Syntagma Square to Kerameikos typically costs between €5-€7 and takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.
