Page 2 - PhilopapposHill

Philopappos Hill - Athens - Greece

Philopappos Hill

The Hill and Monument of Filopappou in Athens: Filopappou (or Philopappou) Hill is a green area to the
south west of the Acropolis. It is a favourite promenade of the Athenians and there you can have great
views of the Acropolis, the whole city of Athens and the Aegean Sea that surrounds Attica. In 115 AD, a
monument dedicated to the exiled Roman Prince Gaius Julius Antichus Philopappos of Commagene (region
in ancient Armenia) was erected on top of the hill.

After his exile, Philopappos was settled in Athens, became an Athenian citizen and held religious and civil
offices. He was considered a great benefactor and was highly esteemed by the residents. The grave
monument of Philopappos was constructed of marble from Mount Pentelikon, near Athens, and Mount
Imittos, to the south east of Athens. Close to the monument and obscured from sight, there stands a stone
structure with iron gates. According to the tradition, this is the prison where the great Greek philosopher
Socrates was imprisoned and died.

A paved path starts from Philopappou and leads to the Pnyx Hill, where the great orators of Greek antiquity
used to gather and discuss political issues. On the far side of the hill, there is the Dora Stratou theatre,
which hosts folklore dancing performances. Close to Philopappou, you will also find the National
Observatory, a scientific institute for the study of astronomy and seismology, as well as the church of Agia
Marina. Philopappou Hill can be reached with the Athens Metro and you step out in the stations Thissio or
Acropolis.