Hadrian's Building Program in Athens: What Happened
In the 2nd century AD, the Roman emperor Hadrian, who ruled from 117 to 138 AD, lavished attention and money on Athens. Hadrian was a passionate admirer of Greek culture, so much so that he was nicknamed Graeculus, the little Greek, and he visited Athens several times, including a long stay around 124 to 125 AD. He was initiated into the Eleusinian Mysteries and served as archon, one of the city's chief officials. Hadrian funded an extensive building program that transformed the city. He completed the huge Temple of Olympian Zeus, begun more than six centuries earlier by the tyrant Peisistratos, and it was dedicated around 131 to 132 AD. He built a large library complex, new aqueducts, baths and gymnasia, and a new district of the city. The Arch of Hadrian, which still stands, marked the boundary between the old city and the new. Hadrian also founded the Panhellenion, a league of Greek cities based in Athens. The Athenians honored him as a benefactor and founder, and much of his work can be seen today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Hadrian love Athens?
The Roman emperor Hadrian, who ruled from 117 to 138 AD, was a passionate admirer of Greek culture. He was nicknamed Graeculus, the little Greek, and visited Athens several times.
What did Hadrian build in Athens?
Hadrian completed the Temple of Olympian Zeus and built a large library, aqueducts, baths, gymnasia and a new district of the city. The Arch of Hadrian still stands.
What is the Arch of Hadrian?
The Arch of Hadrian marked the boundary between the old city of Athens and Hadrian's new district. Its inscriptions describe each side as the city of Theseus and the city of Hadrian.
What was the Panhellenion?
The Panhellenion was a league of Greek cities founded by Hadrian and based in Athens, intended to unite the Greek world and honor its shared heritage.
Can you see Hadrian's monuments in Athens today?
Yes. The Arch of Hadrian, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Library of Hadrian near Monastiraki are all open to visitors in central Athens.
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