Strategeion, Archaeological site in central Athens, Greece

The Strategeion is an archaeological site in central Athens where ancient military leaders gathered to make strategic decisions. Excavations reveal stone foundations and building remains that document the structure and layout of this command center.

The Strategeion was built over two graves nearly 2,700 years old, and archaeological traces point to a heroic cult of a hero named Strategos, whose name later became the title of Athenian generals. The trapezoidal chamber of cut stone served as the meeting room of the ten Strategoi, one elected each year for each tribe, who decided on finance, politics and foreign policy.

The name Strategeion comes from "strategos", the title of the ten generals elected one per tribe for a year, who met in this trapezoidal chamber. The building was raised over two graves nearly 2,700 years old, and archaeology points to a heroic cult of a hero also named Strategos, from whom the title is thought to derive.

The Strategeion lies within the Ancient Agora of Athens, at the foot of the Acropolis, and is reached on foot through the excavated site rather than by a separate entrance. The trapezoidal chamber is built of cut stone, so look for its angled walls among the foundations. The ground is uneven and largely unshaded.

The site is less known than other archaeological locations in Athens, even though it sits centrally and is easy to reach. Many visitors pass by without realizing its importance to the city's military history.