Altar of Athena Polias, Ancient religious altar on Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Altar of Athena Polias is an archaeological site on the northern section of the Acropolis, with foundations visible beside the Erechtheion temple. The remains reveal how this sacred spot functioned at the heart of ancient Athens' religious life.
The altar was built around 525 BCE under the Peisistratid rulers, replacing an earlier temple from the 6th century. It evolved over centuries into a major center of Athenian worship and civic identity.
The name Polias refers to Athena as the city's protector, reflecting how central this site was to Athens' religious life and identity. Local people gathered here to make offerings and honor the goddess, seeking her protection and favor for their community.
The altar is part of the Acropolis complex and can be viewed during regular site hours. Wear sturdy footwear, as the ancient remains sit on rocky terrain with uneven surfaces.
The site held a sacred wooden statue of Athena called a xoanon, which Athenians believed was sent from the sky by Zeus himself. This revered object was so important that it was sometimes removed from the city during times of danger.
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