Prison of Socrates

If you love philosophy, you haven't truly seen Athens until you've visited this spot. Whether Socrates was actually imprisoned here or not remains a mystery, but there is no doubt that he once walked these very paths. It is a must-see for the history and the connection to the past.

After exploring Acropolis, we've decided to explore on more in the neighboring area. We found Socrates prison. One great Philosopher. Imprisoned for not believing in Greek gods.

The “Prison of Socrates” is a two or three story rocky cave dwelling built on the slopes of the Hill of Muses. There are water channels running along the front of the building. A stairway cut into stone is on the south to communicate with the higher level of the slope. This was not really where Socrates gave his speeches or was imprisoned. Most agree that this is a man made dwelling near the Agora where Socrates actually spoke. During WWII, this cave was used to hide antiquities from nazis.

The cutting and carving of groundwork and even of whole rooms into the rock of the hills, west of the Acropolis (the Areos Pagus, the Hill of the Nymphs and the one of the Muses, and the Pnyx) on the way up to the Monument of Philopappos, is typical of the area, and demonstrates the town planning and architecture of ancient Athens. İt's said that this structure, the so-called Socrates Prison, is not where the great philosopher was imprisoned and finally executed.

Socrates wasn’t there unfortunately, might try again to meet him. Mysterious hole between rooms and I am unsure as it it’s use. Would recommend if you’re passing by but wouldn’t go out of my way to see it again (unless Socrates comes back)

I walked up to it. Beautiful views. 5 star. I climbed to Mount Lycabettus too. This is better… closer to the Acropolis.

Very cool to see, given the historical significance. Would recommend doing a walk in and around this park listening to some greek philosophy podcasts while walking amongst the same area they did back then.

Don’t know if this is the real prison of Socrates but makes sense as it is so close to the Acropolis. Being so close to one of the greatest philosophers of all time. Convicted by a jury for 1. Corrupting the youth and 2. Creating false gods. Socrates did represent himself though. The jury offered him banishment from Athens. As a man of principle he told the jury that if you believe in your law, provide the maximum punishment. He was sentenced to death by drinking hemlock. Rare is such a soul. I could feel his presence, along with his then student Plato who was a witness. Everyone should study The Trial of Socrates.