Suppose you walk on the sidewalk of Ardittou Street from the side where the Temple of Olympian Zeus is located, shortly before its junction with Athanasiou Diakou Street. In that case, your path is interrupted a bit annoyingly by a large rock on the side of the road. This rock is actually part of an ancient sanctuary for Pan, the ancient god of wildlife.
At this point, at a lower level than the road, is the church of Agia Fotini. As you descend towards the church, you will see on your right a sign indicating the location of the ancient sanctuary of Pan. It is a large rock with two carved sides and a small natural cave at its base.
The sanctuary was first recognised and explored at the end of the 19th century. A shelter was probably supported in the rock recesses, while the excavations inside the small cave showed that it was used for burials. Archaeologists have identified on one of its two polished vertical surfaces a relief representation of Pan, showing him walking with a stick on his shoulder. Unfortunately, the unmaintained relief exposed to urban pollution has almost disappeared and is very difficult to distinguish.
So put yourself to the test, and if you pass this point, go down the steps and test yourself to see if you can spot the figure of Pan on the rock and discover one of the most interesting hidden attractions of Athens.
Can you spot him in our photo?
Ardittou 1
€
no-price
Find your way with 264 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
We call these boxes KAFAO (ΚΑΦΑΟ in Greek) and they are basically the Greekized pronunciation of the German acronym KV (Ka-Fau)...
by
The story of Rizopoulos family's involvement with coffee begins in the early 20th century, specifically in 1901, when Andreas Rizopoulos arrived in Athens,
by
I've been here with friends and they've all been amazed at the low prices, cool vibe and '90s memorabilia. Even the cocktails are named after Pokemon!
by
It's really close to both Akropoli and Syggrou-Fix metro station, it has a nice vibe, a great selection of Greek international dishes and large portions!
by
Once you enter, you will be amazed by the Japanese-cool decoration, especially by the huge blue mural with the 3D elements and the pink circle.
by
Although Kalos Aeras is located on a busy road, there is no noise penetrating the leafy veranda, and stepping into the house is like time-traveling back to the 60s.
by
Plateia Proskopon is surely not as hip as Plateia Varnava or other spots in Pagrati but has a unique atmosphere.
by
I just love the chocolate-covered nuts in 1001 Geyseis! I recently tried the cocoa-covered pecan nuts and hopefully one day I will try all the variety the store has to offer!
by
Entering Agias Zonis is like getting into a literal comfort zone. Although it starts from the bustling pedestrian zone of Fokionos Negri, Agias Zonis is a well-kept secret.
by
There are actually three falafel places located next to each other in Plateia Vathis (Vathis square). All three places are equally good, offering huge portions for a great price.
by
Located on the top of Lycabettus hill, the highest spot of the city right in the center of Athens, it is a steep walk to reach Prasini Tenta, but just the view itself is worth the hike.
by
264 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 264 Insider Tips