The birthplace of democracy. Explore our nearly 200,000 excavated artifacts online.

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Athenian Agora

Located in the heart of modern Athens and attracting more than half a million  international visitors annually, the Agora was in ancient times the business, political, and legal center of Athens, bringing together citizens and foreigners, litigants and jurors, and merchants and philosophers. The School has been excavating at the Agora since 1931, and has brought to light a rich and splendid history of continuous habitation that extends over more than 5,000 years. The major public buildings of ancient Athens are now displayed in a thoughtfully landscaped archaeological park with all of the excavated artifacts and excavation records housed in the restored Stoa of Attalos. These finds have significantly expanded our knowledge of ancient Athenian life and culture, notably the origins and practice of democracy. Each summer, the Agora trains more than 60 students from American colleges and universities in modern archaeological techniques.

John Camp: A Life at the Athenian Agora

Agora News

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July 16, 2025

New Publication: Marble Statuettes of the Roman Period

The American School of Classical Studies at Athens is pleased to announce the publication of Marble Statuettes of the Roman Period, by Brian Martens.

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July 14, 2025

“Guardians of Hellenism” Wins Top Prize at VastFilm Festival

Premiering at the School’s gala this past May, the film was produced in honor of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, recipient of this year’s prestigious Gennadius Prize.

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June 30, 2025

New Episode: Agora Scholars Speak with Maria Liston

Watch the latest episode of our Agora Scholars Speak Series with Maria Liston.

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