Areopagus: Word to the Wise

Category: Areopagus
Date 08.27.09 Author: TimWoodroof

Areopagus from Acropolis03 (2)Read my post on Areopagus: Accessibility. The bottom line is this site is steep, slippery, and unsafe. Though the views and the stories make a visit worthwhile, a broken ankle (or neck!) could put a serious crimp in your Greece trip.

Wear good shoes and watch your step. Not only are the original steps worn smooth, but the surface of the summit is uneven and pitted—a likely place to catch your toe and cause a tumble. As long as you are careful, the Areopagus should not pose a problem for most people. If you struggle with any kind of balance or walking problem, I would not attempt this site.

This site is ungated, which means a visit is free of charge and the site is accessible 24/7. However, try to time your visit for the morning or early evening—when the sun is not so intense and light for photographs is optimized. There are some great vistas here, including both ancient and more modern sights. If you have a tripod, this would be a good place to put it to use.

At the foot of the hill, there are benches in a lovely shaded spot … if you’d like to sit and contemplate for a while. If you bring your New Testament, this would make a great place to read about Paul’s visit to Athens (Acts 17:16-34—which mentions both the agora and the Areopagus). Paul’s speech to the Areopagus Council is commemorated with a bronze plaque at the base of the hill. Unfortunately, unless you can read Koine Greek, you will only be able to pick out scattered words like “Paulos” and “Athenaioi.”

 Water and snacks are available at the nearby Acropolis ticket gate. There is also a bag-check room, restrooms, and a water fountain just a few yards away from the Areopagus.

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