written by
Andy Turner
The Roman Forum was built under Julius Caesar and expanded by Augustus as an extension of the older Agora. Its main entrance, then as now, was through the Gate of Athena Archegetis on the west side. The four surviving columns of this grand portal still hint at its former splendor.
Facing the Acropolis, you can spot an engraved edict detailing the rules and taxes on oil sales, a fascinating glimpse into ancient commerce. At the opposite end of the Forum, a second gateway stands clearly visible, while the marketplace, once lined with colonnades and shops, stretches between them. Some of these ancient shops have been excavated, revealing a glimpse of daily life in the city’s Roman era.
Just outside the market area to the east, the foundations of first-century AD public latrines can still be seen — proof that even the Romans had to queue for the restroom.
Not sure how long to stay in Athens to take in its rich history? Make sure to give yourself enough time to explore both its famous sites and lesser-known ancient gems.
Tower of the Winds
The best preserved and easily the most intriguing of the ruins inside the Forum site is the graceful octagonal structure known as the Tower of the Winds. This predates the Forum, and stands just outside the main market area. Designed in the first century BC by Andronikos of Kyrrhos, a Syrian astronomer, it served as a compass, sundial, weather vane and water clock – the latter powered by a stream from one of the Acropolis springs. Each face of the tower is adorned with a relief of a figure floating through the air, personifying the eight winds. Beneath each of these, it is still possible to make out the markings of eight sundials. On top of the building was a bronze weather vane in the form of the sea god Triton. In Ottoman times, dervishes used the tower as a tekke or ceremonial hall, terrifying their superstitious Orthodox neighbours with their chanting, music and whirling meditation.
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