Athens Attractions

Venue: Agorá    When: Daily

Long ago, the Agorá (or market) was the buzzing heart of ancient Athens: the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social activity, a religious and cultural centre and the seat of justice. Lowly Athenians would mingle with politicians, merchants with stall holders. Over 2000 years later, the site is unsurprisingly a confusing jumble of ruins - but it's not difficult to conjure up the life that it had.

The Temple of Hephaistos is the usual first stop on any tour - one of the best preserved temples in Ancient Greece, with friezes depicting images of Theseus from the myths. Other highlights include the Stoa Attalou, thought to be a precursor to the modern-day shopping mall, with a collection of at least 42 separate shops. The Temple of Apollo Patroos and the Bouleuterion are also favoured areas with interesting stories.

If you are in a hurry, it makes sense to visit the fascinating museum that stores the bits and bobs unearthed through excavations and explains the area's history.