Since its construction in the 1st century B.C., this remarkable tower has been used as a church, a compass and a site for whirling dervish performances.
On the western slope of the Acropolis stands a white marble monument in a curious octagonal shape. This fascinating site is known as the Tower of Winds, the construction of an astronomer named Andronicus of Kyrrhos. Visit the tower to admire its elaborate design and to pay your respects to the wind deities who are honoured at the site.
Since its construction many centuries ago, the Tower of the Winds has served a variety of different functions. It has been a Byzantine church a water clock, a sundial and a compass. At one stage, under Turkish rule, the tower was used as a setting for the mystical dance of the Sufi whirling dervishes.
Walk around the 12-metre (39-foot) tall clock tower and appreciate its ingenious design. Each of the tower’s eight sides represents a compass point. The astronomer Adronicus of Kyrrhos clearly knew a thing or two. In a previous age, the tower was topped with a revolving weather vane depicting a bronze Triton holding a metal rod in his hand.
Looking to the top of the structure, you will notice mysterious reliefs of eight floating figures. These figures represent the eight winds, or I Aerides (The Windy Ones). Try to make out the characterisation of each of these wind deities, such as the west wind Zephyros scattering blossoms and the north wind Boreas blowing on a conch.
The faded rays on an ancient sundial are situated underneath the reliefs of The Windy Ones. Head inside the tower to see a special turning device that used to show the passing hours of the day. This machine used to be powered by water brought down from the Acropolis.
Follow up your visit with a relaxing sojourn in the park situated outside the Acropolis. There is a kiosk selling food and drink on-site, but the more economical option is to bring your own picnic along. If you fancy exploring the Acroplis, hire a guide at the ticket booth or buy a guidebook and lead yourself around the ancient site.
The Tower of the Winds is located in the Roman Agora, on the western slope of the Acropolis. It is easily accessible by public transport, and near to other attractions in the Athens city centre. The site is open every day and the entry fee is included in the charge for admission to the Acropolis.
