Philopappos Monument

This point of interest is available as audio on the tour: Visit Athens, At the roots of western civilization
After a short hike up the Philopappos hill, you’ve now reached the summit, where you’ll find an impressive 2nd century AD funerary monument! These rocks, dating back almost 2,000 years, pay homage to Gaius Philopappos, Roman senator and benefactor of the city. His sister, Julia Balbilla, had this 12-metre-high marble structure built in his honour. Although it has been marred over the centuries, the monument still stands proudly at the top of the so-called Hill of the Muses, so named as there’s also a shrine here dedicated to Musaeus, a 5th-century BC poet and prophet.

Discover Athens with app
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
29 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Comments