Prison of Socrates, Cave system in Filopappou Hill, Greece
The Prison of Socrates is a cave system carved into Filopappou Hill with multiple chambers connected by narrow stone passages. The site features ancient stonework that demonstrates the craftsmanship of its builders from antiquity.
According to tradition, Socrates was held here before his execution in 399 BCE, marking a pivotal moment in ancient Greek history. Later, the caves sheltered museum artifacts during World War II from potential theft.
The site carries the memory of Socrates' final days, a moment that shifted how ancient Greeks thought about justice and philosophy. Walking through these chambers connects you to one of history's most debated trials.
The site is freely accessible via marked trails on Filopappou Hill and sits within walking distance of Acropolis metro station. Wear sturdy shoes, as paths are uneven and some chambers have low entrances that require careful navigation.
The caves consist of multiple levels at different heights, revealing how ancient workers systematically quarried the stone layer by layer. This layered design often surprises visitors who expect a simple single chamber.
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