The Stoa of Attalos

The Stoa of Attalos is an impressive building located in the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora in Athens. Originally constructed from 159 BC to 138 BC, the building was donated to the Athenians by Attalus II, King of Pergamos, and his wife. The building had two floors and two rows of marble columns on the ground floor, making it the first and largest shopping center of antiquity.

Over time, the Stoa of Attalos was destroyed during a siege in 267 AD, but it was restored in 1953-1956 by the American School of Classical Studies to house an archaeological museum. The Archaeological Museum of the Stoa of Attalos houses a collection of artifacts excavated at the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora, dating from the Neolithic period to the 6th century AD.

Among the notable artifacts in the museum are the giant statue of the god Apollo, a large statue of a female figure, a hydraulic clock used to measure time in the courts, the tomb of a little girl dating back to Geometric times, and a bronze Spartan shield taken by the Athenians as a war prize at the battle of Sfactoria (425 BC).

Recently, in May 2012, restoration work on the second floor was completed, and the museum was extended to both floors. The museum’s impressive collection of artifacts and its unique historical and cultural significance make it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, archaeology, and ancient Greek culture.

Overall, the Stoa of Attalos is an essential attraction for anyone exploring the Ancient Agora in Athens. Its historical significance as a shopping center, coupled with its connection to the Archaeological Museum of the Stoa of Attalos, makes it a must-see attraction in Athens. Its location in the Ancient Agora and proximity to other historical sites in Athens makes it easy to visit for tourists.