The hill of Muses ( Filopappou )

The hill of Muses or Filopappou is a green area to the southwest of the Acropolis. It is a favourite walk for Athenians and from there you can get a great view of the Acropolis, the entire city of Athens and the Aegean Sea surrounding Attica. In 115 AD, a monument dedicated to the exiled Roman prince Gaius Julius Antiochus Philopappus of Komagini (a region of ancient Armenia) was erected at the top of the hill.

After his exile, Philopappos settled in Athens, became an Athenian citizen and held religious and political offices. He was considered a great benefactor and was held in high esteem by the inhabitants. Philopappos’ tomb was made of marble from Mount Pendelikon, near Athens, and Mount Imitos, southeast of Athens. Near the monument and covered from view is a stone structure with iron gates. According to tradition, this is the prison where the great Greek philosopher Socrates was imprisoned and died.

A paved path starts from Filopappou and leads to the hill of the Pnyx, where the great orators of Greek antiquity gathered to discuss political issues. On the other side of the hill is the Dora Stratou Theatre, which hosts folk dance performances. Near Filopappou, you will also find the National Observatory, a scientific institute for the study of astronomy and seismology, and the church of Agia Marina. Philopappou Hill can be reached by the Athens Metro and get off at Thiseion or Acropolis stations.