The Amphiaraio (or Amphiareion, depending on the spelling) of Oropos is an archaeological site near Athens, some 40 km from the Greek capital and 30 km from Marathon.
Nestled in a rural setting, it’s a modest site that’s totally off the beaten track. It is little frequented and has a certain charm.
The myth of Amphiaraio
You’ll find a few brief explanations on the site. Signs are in Greek and English.
This sanctuary is dedicated to the god and hero Amphiaraios. The latter was not only a brave and valiant warrior, but also a soothsayer protected by Zeus and Apollo. Zeus having granted him immortality as well as the power to deliver oracles and health to the sick, he was renowned for his healing gifts.
The cult of Amphiaraio developed in Oropos in the 4th century BC, thanks to the nearby spring, renowned for its medicinal virtues. In ancient times, the site we see today was a health resort where the sick came to question the oracle and seek treatment. Each patient had to observe a 24-hour fast and abstain from wine for three days. Pilgrims also had to sacrifice a ram, then wrap themselves in the animal’s still-bloody skin for one night. Thus, in his dreams, the oracle of Amphiaraio came to provide advice and healing.
The Oropos site was excavated between 1884 and 1929.
An archaeological site near Athens with bucolic charm
The amphiaraio of Oropos is an archaeological site with a rural charm, surrounded by greenery, a pine forest and a small stream. We went there in the spring. The grass was very green, there were lots of flowers and the trees were fragrant.
The site itself is of limited archaeological interest. But its charm lies in its romantic, peaceful side. And to the fact that it’s completely out of the tourist way.
Here you can see blocks of stone that once made up a temple, the ancient foundations of an altar and truncated Doric columns. But the main interest of this archaeological site near Athens lies in the remains of a remarkably well-preserved ancient theater. You can still admire the stage, marble seats and a few ruined bleachers. The theater could accommodate around three hundred spectators.
To sum up: no wow factor, but a pleasant site in a rural setting.
The Oropos amphiaraio in practice
- To get there, a car is essential. The best way is to enter the coordinates into your GPS. Keep an eye out for the brown signs on the road, as the site is not very well signposted.
- Opening hours: the site is open from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Schedules change regularly, so be sure to check the official website before you visit.
- Price: 3 euros
Free for children and people under 25 from EU member states (on presentation of ID). - Allow just over an hour to visit the site.
Finally, to make the day last longer, take advantage of the nearby beaches.
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We hope you enjoy your visit to this archaeological site near Athens. You’ll also find other ideas for things to see around the Greek capital in our “Around Athens” section.
Laure M.
