April Destinations｜Areopagus Hill

Areopagus Hill, located northwest of the Acropolis in Athens, is named after the ancient worship of Ares, the god of war, and was known as the "Council of Ares" in ancient times. During the Roman period, it was referred to as "Mars Hill." This limestone hill served as Athens' highest court of appeal from the 6th century BC, handling major cases such as murder and blasphemy. It is also famously associated with the trial and execution of Socrates. Visitors can climb the stone steps along the western slope of the Acropolis to reach the hilltop platform, which still features stone railings from the Roman era. From here, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view: to the west, the ancient Agora marketplace and the site of ostracism voting; to the east, the Acropolis with its Parthenon and Erechtheion temples showcasing golden ratio compositions; and to the south, the Saronic Gulf where cargo ships traverse the horizon.