Fortress of Eleutherai

The Fortress of Eleutherai is an ancient fortified site built on a hilltop, covering about 3.3 hectares with walls extending roughly 860 meters in length. Along the northern wall stand seven square towers, and the site includes a double main gateway facing west plus two smaller entrances on the north side.

Built between 370 and 360 BC, this fortress guarded the mountain pass between Attica and Boeotia as a crucial defensive position. It was one of several fortifications designed to protect the region from invasion.

This site marks where the worship of Dionysus spread to Athens, shaping the city's theatrical traditions and festivals. Walking through the ruins, you can sense how religious practices from this border region influenced artistic life in the capital.

The site sits on elevated terrain and requires decent fitness to walk around the walls and climb to the towers. Bring sturdy shoes and water, especially during warm months when sun exposure can be intense.

The fortress displays advanced engineering through its double gateway system that controlled both entry points against attackers. Several towers contained specialized positions that likely accommodated catapult placements for defensive firepower.

Location: Mandra-Eidyllia Municipality

Website: http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh351.jsp?obj_id=12845

GPS coordinates: 38.17940,23.37600

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44