Tower of the Winds

The basics

Tour the Agora and Tower of the Winds with a guide to learn about the significance of this important monument, which has influenced the design of similar observation towers across the globe. Private or small-group tours cover the entire ancient site including the tower, while tours of Athens’ most important archaeological ruins also stop here. The tower sits just below the Acropolis, so it is easy to pair with a guided tour of the hilltop ruins.

Things to know before you go

• The Ancient Agora of Athens, home to the Tower of the Winds, is included in the Acropolis combined ticket of seven archaeological sites in Athens, which is valid for five days after first use.

• Admission tickets to the Agora include entrance inside the Tower of the Winds to see the holes, channels, and grooves left from when it was used as a hydraulic clock.

• The tower has little explanatory signage, so take a guided tour for insights into its history as a meteorological station and water clock.

• Wheelchair users can access most of the outdoor ruins, but can only admire the Tower of the Winds from outside.

How to get there

The Tower of the Winds is set just below the Acropolis in central Athens and can be easily reached on foot from many of the main city sights, including Monastiraki Square, which is about 10 minutes on foot. The closest metro station is Monastiraki, where both the Green Line and Blue Line stop. The Ancient Agora entrance is about a 5-minute walk from the station.

When to get there

The tower is located in the open-air ruins of the Agora with little shade or shelter from the elements. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and explore when the weather is dry. The site closes early in the winter, so check opening hours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Recognizing the Tower of the Winds friezes

The most striking features of the Tower of the Winds are the carved friezes along the roofline. Each of the eight sides of the tower is topped by the depiction of a different wind deity, each corresponding to its direction. Starting with the northern Boreas, move clockwise to admire Kaikias to the northeast, Eurus to the east, southeastern Apeliotes, southern Notus, Livas to the southwest, western Zephyrus, and Skiron to the northwest.