Paul the Apostle in Athens: What Happened
Around 50 AD, the Christian missionary Paul the Apostle visited Athens during his second journey through Greece, after preaching in Philippi, Thessaloniki and Berea. According to the Book of Acts in the New Testament, Paul was troubled to see the city full of statues of gods and began debating with Jews in the synagogue and with passersby in the Agora, including Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. Curious about his new teachings, they brought him to the Areopagus, the hill of Ares below the Acropolis, which was also the name of an ancient council. There Paul gave his famous speech. He noted that he had seen an altar inscribed To an Unknown God, and declared that this was the God he was proclaiming. When he spoke of the resurrection of the dead, some listeners mocked him, while others wanted to hear more. A few became believers, including Dionysius the Areopagite, who later became the first bishop of Athens and the city's patron saint. A bronze plaque with the text of the speech stands on the Areopagus today.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Paul visit Athens?
Paul the Apostle visited Athens around 50 AD during his second missionary journey through Greece, after preaching in Philippi, Thessaloniki and Berea.
What did Paul say on the Areopagus?
Paul noted an altar inscribed To an Unknown God and declared that this was the God he proclaimed. When he spoke of resurrection, some listeners mocked him.
What is the Areopagus?
The Areopagus, or hill of Ares, is a rocky hill below the Acropolis in Athens. It was also the name of an ancient council that met there.
Who was Dionysius the Areopagite?
Dionysius the Areopagite was one of the few Athenians converted by Paul. He later became the first bishop of Athens and is the city's patron saint.
Can you visit the Areopagus?
Yes. The Areopagus is next to the Acropolis and is free to visit. A bronze plaque at its base displays the text of Paul's famous speech.
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