Photo: Thomas Gravanis

The Tower of the Winds

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

This marble clocktower is also known as the world’s first meteorological station.

When was it built

c. 100-50 BC; reconstructed in the 16th century. Subsequently buried under soil and debris, it was excavated in the 1830s and 1840s.

What's the story

This is where meteorology got its start and even today we describe the winds according to the same characteristics shown on the Tower’s panels.

Why it's important

It’s considered the world’s first weather station. The tower was akin to a modern-day laboratory, with an elaborate water-clock inside and sundials on the outside walls.

Must-see

The eight-panelled frieze with depictions of the eight wind gods facing the direction in which each blew.

Fun fact

Under Ottoman rule, Sufis (or whirling dervishes) used the tower of the winds as a place of worship—a use that is believed to have deterred Lord Elgin from removing it to England.

Photo: Thomas Gravanis

Info

Roman Agora of Athens, Plaka, 105 55
Plaka
+30 210 324 5220
Website
Refer to the website for opening hours and ticket prices.

Eat & Drink

Eat & Drink

Eat & Drink

Eat & Drink

The Tower of the Winds

This marble clocktower is also known as the world’s first meteorological station.