Stoa of Attalos - Museum of the Ancient Agora

The Stoa of Attalos is a striking two-story colonnaded building that was originally built by King Attalos II of Pergamon around 150 BCE. Reconstructed in the 1950s, it now serves as the Museum of the Ancient Agora, displaying pottery, sculptures, inscriptions, and everyday objects unearthed during excavations. Visitors walk through the long hall, imagining ancient Athenians conducting business, socializing, and attending court sessions. The museum’s highlights include a bronze statue of a philosopher, a child’s toy, and voting ballots used in ostracism. From the upper floor, you get a panoramic view of the Agora ruins, including the Temple of Hephaestus. The stoa’s architecture, with its Doric columns on the ground floor and Ionic above, is a masterpiece of Hellenistic design. The site is less crowded than the Acropolis, offering a more contemplative experience of ancient Athens.

Don't miss

• View the original marble water clock (klepsydra) used in ancient courts.
• See the bronze statue of a philosopher (possibly Epicurus or a Cynic).
• Examine ostraca (pottery shards) used to vote for ostracism.
• Walk the upper floor for a sweeping view of the Agora and Acropolis.
• Admire the reconstructed stoa’s columns and roof, a feat of modern archaeology.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Stoa of Attalos - Museum of the Ancient Agora

Cheapest way inAcropolis and Parthenon Guided Walking Tour4.8★ · 5,959 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$39 per personSee dates →Most bookedAthens: Acropolis, Parthenon and Acropolis Museum Guided Tour4.8★ · 2,206 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$39 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleAthens Highlights: Myths & Philosophers Walking Tour5★ · 140 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Allow at least 1 hour for the museum; add 30 minutes for the Agora grounds.
• Photography is allowed without flash inside the museum.
• Audio guides are available for rent; consider downloading the official app.
• Bring water and sunscreen; the Agora has limited shade.

A bit of history

Built around 150 BCE by King Attalos II of Pergamon as a gift to Athens, the stoa was a covered walkway for merchants and officials. It was destroyed by the Heruli in 267 CE. The American School of Classical Studies reconstructed it between 1953 and 1956, using original materials where possible.