Why visit / Interesting facts:
- Typical Roman Forum architectural style
Time required: 20 minutes
Admission:
| Ticket type | Charge |
|---|---|
| General: | Free |
Public transport:
- Green Metro Line: Monastiraki station
Address: Aiolou and Diogenous, Monastiraki
Photos: (see more photos)
Photo: arkntina
Things you need to know:
- Roman Emperor Hadrian built this luxurious library in AD 132 on the north side of the Acropolis
- It followed the architectural style of a typical Roman Forum. It had one entrance with high walls surrounding a courtyard
- The showy central courtyard took up much of the space. It was decorated with mosaic floors, marble, gardens and a pool. Fancy Corinthian columns surrounded the central area
- Along with the library, the building accomodated lecture rooms, music rooms and a theatre
- Later the library was seriously damaged in military invasions. Thanks to extensive excavation and restorations, part of the site survived
- Other highlights: remains of three temples erected during Byzantine times
What to do there:
- Discover the ruins of the library
